Resident Engineer – Construction and Pavements

About the role

The Resident Engineer will act as the on‑site authority for a major road construction and pavement project in Durban. Reporting to the Section Manager and Contract Engineer, you will ensure that design intent, quality standards, and contractual obligations are met throughout the project lifecycle.

Key responsibilities

• Administer the contract and serve as Resident Engineer for the project.
• Review construction drawings and manage contractor queries by coordinating with designers.
• Inspect works and test results to maintain quality control.
• Prepare and update cost estimates to project completion.
• Maintain site administration records in line with SMEC’s quality management system and Construction Manual.
• Attend technical and site meetings, taking minutes and tracking actions.
• Produce monthly progress reports and liaise with clients and contractors.
• Manage site supervision resources, monitor programme schedules and contract budgets.
• Handle claims and resolve contractual issues.

Required profile

• BSc/BTech (or equivalent) in Civil Engineering, registered with the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA).
• Minimum 10 years of experience in road and construction projects, including at least 5 years as a Resident Engineer on asphalt road design or rehabilitation.
• Extensive knowledge of major conditions of contract and contract administration (experience with General Conditions of Contract 2015 advantageous).
• Fluent in spoken and written English and isiZulu.
• Based in Vyheid or Paulpietersberg, with the project site in Durban.

Required skills

• Civil Engineering
• Road Construction
• Asphalt Road Design
• Road Rehabilitation
• Contract Administration
• Quality Control
• Cost Estimation
• Project Monitoring
• Claim Management
• Knowledge of General Conditions of Contract 2015

What we offer

• Opportunity to work on high‑impact infrastructure projects.
• Supportive environment that values diversity, equity, inclusion and professional growth.
• Access to SMEC’s resources, training and development programmes.