How To Be A Functional On-Site Geotechnical Engineer

Summary

Abstract

This paper provides guidance to geotechnical professionals working on mine sites on how to be a Functional On-site Geotechnical Engineer. While such a concept may be perceived as uninventive, in the author’s combined 40+ years of working on-site for operating mines, proves otherwise. The concept of a Functional On-site Geotechnical Engineer stems from “rules of thumb” for geotechnical professionals, that if followed will help prevent geotechnically related operational pitfalls. While some junior geotechnical engineers enter the mining industry with support, guidance, and systems, many others do not. Depending on the quantum and quality of mentoring (if offered or available) and the level / maturity of geotechnical practice employed by the site, professional development of junior engineers varies greatly. At this stage in a young professional’s career, many good and unfortunate convictions of “What Good Looks Like” are formed. Guidance is provided on “What Good Should Look Like” for on-site geotechnical engineering. Operational situations often pressure geotechnical engineers into decisions that may have immediate and/or cumulative and enduring material impacts on workplace safety and/or production, without sufficient time, data, and/or resources. A Functional On-site Geotechnical Engineer knows what to focus on (Identification & Prioritisation), how much effort to expend (Planning), and when and for how long to focus on it (Scheduling) to make the most informed decision at the right time. While the guidance presented does not include revolutionary concepts, it does present decades of distilled geotechnical wisdom on “What Good Looks Like”, which is beneficial to junior, some senior level professionals, and managers.