Principal: Geotechnical Engineer at De Beers Group

Job Description:

• The purpose of this role is to be the overarching subject matter expert and owner for Geotechnical Engineering within De Beers Group, driving the delivery of the Upstream Priority Areas as linked to the De Beers Group Strategy. A key function of this role is to organise, prepare and deliver geotechnical assurance for the geotechnical discipline with relevant interaction with other mining disciplines.

Key Tasks:

Provide expert technical support for both Managed Operations and Non-Managed Joint Venture Operations on the following:

• Roll-out, embedment and review of relevant standards, frameworks and best practices, managing compliance issues within the relevant managerial and governance frameworks
• Provide SME input to ensure / enable the operations within De Beers Group Operations manage geotechnical risk effectively
• Development of geotechnical services strategies focusing on the 1-5yr window, aligned to the Life of Asset Plans of the operations within Operating Model principles and support the operating cost budget requirements. 
• Provide support and guidance in terms of designs and life of asset plans for operations, inclusive of waste dumps.
• Review and development of project specifications and design criteria are reflective of minimum requirements and safe and cost-effective manner.
• Facilitate continuous improvement and modernization at operations aligned to the defined priority areas based on the monitoring of geotechnical key performance indicators, findings and trends.
• Support the sites on systemic issues related to critical and/or persistent risk and significant projects
• Support the development of technology roadmaps for the upstream operations.
• Drive people development within the discipline by identifying knowledge gaps, providing coaching, identifying potential employees, and planning succession for critical roles

Assurance on behalf of De Beers Group regarding the following:

• Provide second line and coordinate third line assurance on relevant standards
• Provide project assurance support, both reviewing projects and assistance with the preparation for external reviews.
• Review inputs, activities, schedule and cost (Capital and Operational cost) for geotechnical service strategies as defined by operational teams as an input into the business planning cycle and projects.

Qualifications:

• Formal qualification/s in Mining, Geology, or Rock Engineering
• Government ticket of competency - COMREC and/or COMAREC

Other Requirements:

• Valid Medical Certificate of Fitness
• Willingness and ability to travel both locally and internationally on a regular basis

Experience

• Demonstrated experience in a senior people leadership role within a technical environment, including the coordination of knowledge sharing across a discipline, managing workload and reviewing the work of others to ensure consistency with task requirements.
• Experience in a management position, including the successful strategic management of a large sub-functional team 
• At least 10 years managerial and/or consulting experience at a senior level in Underground and Open Pit mining.
• Experience developing and managing geotechnical site investigations
• Experience in solving underground and open pit challenges

Knowledge and Technical Skills

• A demonstrated thought leader and widely regarded external expert in the field of Geotechnical / Rock Engineering, with a particular focus on Underground Hard Rock Environments.
• Knowledge of other legislation that determines the operational and safety requirements for Mining, Rehabilitation and Mine Closure
• Knowledge of tender processes, contract administration and financial progress monitoring
• Knowledge of safety and risk management processes

Closing Date:

16 September, 2025