Role Purpose:
Support open pit slope stability management by collecting, validating, and analysing geotechnical and hydrogeological data to identify instability risks early and enable safe, compliant pit design and operational decision-making. The role performs geotechnical mapping, core logging, monitoring, and rock mass testing under guidance of senior engineers, maintains accurate geotechnical databases, and produces clear technical inputs and reports using approved analysis and modelling software.
Key Responsibilities & Duties :
A. Operational / Technical / Core Duties:
Geotechnical Mapping & Core Logging
- Conduct geotechnical wall mapping and structural measurements to characterise discontinuities and rock mass conditions for slope design inputs.
- Log geotechnical drill core to defined standards, including lithology, structure, RQD and defect descriptions, to support classification and design.
- Capture photographs, sketches, and spatial references and upload results to the geotechnical database with traceable metadata.
Slope Monitoring & Risk Detection
- Track slope performance using field observations and monitoring outputs (e.g., prism, radar and visual inspections) to identify movement or deterioration early.
- Validate monitoring trends, confirm sensor status, and escalate exceedances against trigger action response plans (TARPs) to the supervisor.
- Support hazard mapping and exclusion zone recommendations to maintain safe access and operational continuity.
Hydrogeological Data Management
- Monitor pit water conditions and update dewatering/water hole records to maintain reliable hydrogeological inputs for stability assessment.
- Record and quality-check water level, flow and seepage observations and communicate abnormal conditions for timely response.
- Support interpretation of groundwater and surface water interactions that may impact slope performance.
Rock Mass Strength Testing
- Perform point load tests (PLT) and Schmidt hammer testing using calibrated equipment to generate consistent strength indices.
- Compile results, verify data quality, and flag anomalies that may affect design assumptions or material domains.
- Maintain test logs and sample traceability in accordance with site QA/QC requirements.
Geotechnical Modelling & Analysis Support
- Prepare and maintain geotechnical datasets and 3D models (surfaces, domains, structures) to support slope stability analyses.
- Run routine stability analyses in approved tools under supervision (e.g., limit equilibrium and numerical models) and document assumptions and outputs.
- Produce clear figures, sections, and summaries for weekly/monthly reporting and technical reviews.
B. Health, Safety & Environmental (HSE) / Compliance Duties:
Field Safety & Critical Controls Compliance
- Apply SGM and site HSE rules during pit inspections, mapping and monitoring, including traffic management, exclusion zones and permit requirements.
- Complete pre-task risk assessments, identify ground control hazards, and stop work/escalate when conditions are unsafe.
- Ensure correct use of PPE and safe working practices for highwalls, working-at-heights exposure and proximity to mobile equipment.
Hazard Reporting & Assurance
- Report geotechnical hazards, near-misses and unsafe conditions promptly and support investigations and corrective actions when required.
- Participate in planned inspections and audits and maintain evidence of completed checks within required systems and records.
- Support implementation of TARPs by communicating triggers, controls and follow-up actions to relevant stakeholders.
C. Leadership / People / Team Management (if applicable):
Collaboration & Knowledge Sharing
- Communicate geotechnical observations clearly to operations and technical teams to support safe daily execution.
- Contribute to toolbox talks and planning meetings by sharing ground conditions, constraints and recommended controls.
- Support peer learning by sharing good practice in mapping, logging and software workflows.
D. Financial / Budget / Asset / Resource Management (if applicable):
Cost-Effective Geotechnical Support
- Prioritise field and analysis tasks to focus effort on highest-risk areas and reduce avoidable rework.
- Maintain accurate data and timely reporting to prevent unplanned delays, re-drilling, or ineffective controls.
- Use consumables and equipment responsibly and report damage or shortages to maintain readiness.
Job Requirements:
Education
- Bachelor's degree in Geology, Geophysics, or Geological/Mining Engineering (geotechnical focus preferred).
Experience
- 02 years of experience in geotechnical/geology roles (internships acceptable).
- Exposure to field mapping, core logging, and basic geotechnical reporting.
Certifications & Licenses
- Valid driving license (mandatory).
- Site access permits for fieldwork and highwall inspections.
- Training in geotechnical mapping, slope monitoring, and relevant software is a plus.
Technical Knowledge
- Basic understanding of:
- Open pit slope stability and failure mechanisms
- Rock mass characterization and structural geology
- Hydrogeology and groundwater behavior
- Geotechnical logging and data quality standards
- Slope monitoring techniques (prisms, radar, inspections)
- Rock testing methods (PLT, Schmidt hammer)
- Site safety practices in mining environments
Technical Skills
- Ability to perform:
- Geotechnical mapping and structural measurements
- Core logging and sample handling
- Data collection, validation, and reporting
- Basic stability analysis (under supervision)
- Proficiency in software such as:
- Leapfrog, Slide2/3, RS2/3, Vulcan, Surpac (preferred)
- Ability to prepare technical reports, plots, and presentations
Soft Skills
- Strong safety awareness and risk identification
- Good time management and ability to work under pressure
- High attention to detail and data accuracy
- Effective communication and reporting skills
- Teamwork and collaboration across departments
- Willingness to learn and continuously improve
Language Requirements
- Arabic: Professional proficiency (required)
- English: Professional proficiency (required)
Other Requirements
- Ability to work between field and office environments
- Physically fit for fieldwork in harsh conditions (heat, dust)
- Willingness to travel across operational areas
