Project Inspector - Geotechnical

About SMEC

For 75 years, SMEC has built a reputation as a trusted partner on major transport and energy infrastructure projects around the world. Our design leaders and specialist teams draw on deep expertise and experience delivering projects across a range of diverse environments, from some of the world’s most remote locations to some of the densest urban surroundings.

We understand the value of relationships to ensure that we comprehensively address all requirements at each stage in a project’s development. By closely collaborating with our clients, contractors, subcontractors and asset operators, we deliver commercially informed design thinking through local specialists who understand on-the-ground context and industry expectations.

We stand apart through our historically diverse, globally connected workforce, operating out of more than 40 countries with strong local relationships.

Our diverse workforce of professionals are highly respected experts who bring talent, experience and passion to their fields. Challenging boundaries, we look beyond the project scope to ensure we leave a positive impact in the communities we live and work in and allow present and future generations to thrive.

Job Summary:

The Project Inspector (Geotechnical) is responsible for supporting the execution of dam and hydropower projects through on-site inspection, geotechnical observation, instrumentation monitoring, and reporting. The role includes monitoring construction of earthworks, ground treatment, shaft excavation, dewatering, and diaphragm wall activities to ensure works are carried out safely and in compliance with approved designs, specifications, contractual requirements, and applicable standards.

The position focuses on field-based monitoring, basic geotechnical assessment, HSE implementation, quality assurance, and coordination with project teams to ensure safe, timely, and compliant construction in accordance with design intent.

Responsibilities:

• •Implement project-specific HSE requirements for shaft excavation, earthworks, dewatering, ground treatment, and diaphragm wall construction works
• •Identify geotechnical-related hazards (confined space, excavation, groundwater, instability, vertical works, blasting, ventilation)
• •Ensure risk assessments and method statements (RAMS) are approved and applied
• •Coordinate with HSE officers and contractors on safety controls
• •Enforce permit-to-work systems for shaft activities
• •Inspect shaft excavation, supports, earthworks, ground treatment, dewatering, and diaphragm wall construction activities
• •Verify compliance with approved drawings, specifications, and standards
• •Monitor contractor activities, workmanship quality, and geotechnical performance
• •Identify non-conformances, unexpected ground or groundwater conditions, and geotechnical risks, and recommend corrective actions
• •Witness testing and inspections for geotechnical-related works
• •Participate in site safety orientations and toolbox meetings
• •Provide technical safety input on shaft-related risks
• •Support contractors in improving safe work practices
• •Promote awareness of confined space and vertical access safety
• •Reinforce emergency response and rescue procedures
• •Coordinate daily with resident engineers, HSE staff, and contractors
• •Communicate inspection findings and safety concerns clearly
• •Support resolution of technical and safety issues on site
• •Participate in site coordination and progress meetings
• •Act as the engineer’s representative during shaft inspections
• •Prepare daily and weekly inspection reports and field records, safety observations, NCRs, and corrective actions
• •Maintain inspection checklists and photographic records, and geotechnical field records
• •Support the preparation of completion and handover documents
• •Ensure traceability and proper filing of inspection records

Qualifications:

• •Bachelor’s Degree in Civil, Structural, or Mechanical Engineering
• •10 years of relevant experience in hydropower projects or large-scale underground infrastructure projects
• •At least 3–5 years of direct geotechnical and civil experience in:
• -Construction supervision or inspection of power station shafts, access shafts, or underground caverns
• -Shaft excavation methods (drill-and-blast, raise boring, and mechanized excavation)
• •Proven experience in:
• -Inspection of rock support systems (rock bolts, shotcrete, steel ribs, lining)
• -Monitoring construction works during the construction stage of hydropower projects
• •Experience working with contractors, designers, and supervision consultants on-site
• •Experience in dam and hydropower power station projects
• •On-site inspection or supervision of construction works
• •Exposure to high-risk construction environments
• •Strong ability to inspect, monitor, and verify shaft excavation and lining works against approved drawings, specifications, and method statements
• •Ability to conduct site measurements, visual inspections, and quality checks
• •Capable of preparing clear inspection reports, photographs, and documentation

At Surbana Jurong, we put talent, hard work, teamwork and a fun workplace together to approach problems and solve them creatively and collaboratively. Join us in making a positive impact on the world!