Chief Underground – GeoTech Engineer

JOB OVERVIEW:

The Chief Underground/Geotechnical Engineer will lead the planning, design, and implementation of all underground works and geotechnical aspects of a large-scale hydropower pumped storage project. This includes underground caverns, tunnels, shafts, foundations, slope stability, and ground improvement works. The role is responsible for ensuring all geotechnical investigations, analyses, and construction activities meet design specifications, safety requirements, and regulatory standards. The position requires close coordination with multidisciplinary teams, EPC contractors, consultants, and regulatory agencies to ensure technical excellence, cost efficiency, and timely delivery.

THE ROLE:

• Lead the geotechnical and underground engineering scope, from feasibility through design, construction, and commissioning.
• Oversee geotechnical investigations, laboratory testing, and interpretation of geological data.
• Review and approve geotechnical design calculations, models, and technical reports.
• Ensure optimal design of underground caverns, tunnels, shafts, and related support systems.
• Coordinate closely with civil, structural, mechanical, and electrical teams for integrated project delivery.
• Provide expert technical guidance on excavation methods, ground support, waterproofing, and stabilization techniques.
• Manage geotechnical risk assessments, monitoring programs, and mitigation measures.
• Supervise quality control during excavation, lining, and grouting works.
• Ensure compliance with international and local geotechnical standards and codes.
• Contribute technical input to tender documents, bid evaluations, and contractor selection.
• Uphold HSE requirements in all geotechnical and underground works.

THE INDIVIDUAL:

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil, Geotechnical, Geological, or Mining Engineering (Master’s degree preferred).
• Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) or equivalent certification preferred.
• Minimum 25 years of relevant experience, with at least 20 years in senior geotechnical or underground works leadership roles on large-scale infrastructure or hydropower projects.
• Proven experience in underground works for hydropower pumped storage or tunneling projects.
• Strong expertise in rock mechanics, soil mechanics, and geotechnical design software.
• Experience with TBM, drill-and-blast, and other excavation methods.
• Knowledge of relevant international standards and best practices for underground works.
• Excellent leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and performance excellence.
• Willingness to be deployed 100% onsite, with flexibility to be assigned in either Rizal or Laguna.

NOTE: Due to the volume of applications received, only shortlisted CAUCASIAN candidates will be contacted. 

With over 90 years' combined experience, NES Fircroft (NES) is proud to be the world's leading engineering staffing provider spanning the Oil & Gas, Power & Renewables, Chemicals, Construction & Infrastructure, Life Sciences, Mining and Manufacturing sectors worldwide. With more than 80 offices in 45 countries, we are able to provide our clients with the engineering and technical expertise they need, wherever and whenever it is needed. We offer contractors far more than a traditional recruitment service, supporting with everything from securing visas and work permits, to providing market-leading benefits packages and accommodation, ensuring they are safely and compliantly able to support our clients.