Senior Technical Manager – Tailings

About the role

WSP is seeking a Senior Technical Manager – Tailings to lead its Mine Waste team from either the Cape Town or Midrand office. The role combines technical expertise in tailings and geotechnical engineering with senior project and client management responsibilities.

Key responsibilities

• Provide expert technical advice on complex tailings and geotechnical issues for mining projects.
• Lead large‑scale projects, including contract negotiation, budgeting and technical direction.
• Design, inspect and assess mine waste storage facilities, tailings deposits, water storage dams and related earthworks.
• Oversee safety leadership, health & safety compliance and risk assessments.
• Mentor and coach junior engineers, participate in hiring and performance reviews.
• Prepare and review detailed engineering reports, proposals and client presentations.
• Develop and maintain client relationships and pursue new business opportunities.

Required profile

• BEng or BSc in Civil Engineering (Geotechnical focus preferred) with at least 14 years post‑graduation experience.
• Professional registration with ECSA.
• Proven experience in tailings and geotechnical engineering within the mining sector.
• Strong knowledge of legislation related to water use and waste management licensing.
• Financial understanding of project budgeting and cost control.

Required skills

• Tailings engineering
• Geotechnical analysis and design
• Mine waste storage facility design
• Stability and seepage analysis
• Water resources and dam engineering
• Earthworks planning
• Project management
• Contract negotiation
• Advanced data analysis for engineering decisions