Overview
Senior Civil Engineer Jobs in Johannesburg, South Africa at FairPlay Engineering
Data center design is one of the most technically demanding niches in civil engineering. The tolerances are tighter, the site constraints are more complex, and the coordination requirements across disciplines are unlike most other project types. If you have designed hyperscale or mission critical facilities and genuinely understand what that involves from a civil perspective, this is worth your attention.
Our client is a global engineering consultancy with a focused practice in data center and mission critical facility design. They work with major operators from early feasibility all the way through to permit stage and they are growing their civil engineering capability with engineers who have real data center design exposure, not just general industrial experience.
The role
As a Senior Civil Engineer, you will be involved from the very start of projects. Feasibility studies, basic design, and permitting. You will design and model civil engineering components both above and below ground, with a particular focus on the complex underground infrastructure that defines data center sites. Emergency fuel systems, drainage, sewerage, seismic isolated pits, and underground cable and pipe routing are all part of the scope.
You will coordinate directly with clients and work alongside architects, MEP engineers, structural engineers, and fire safety specialists to deliver integrated, constructible designs. You will also review the work of colleagues, contribute to design quality across the team, and bring your data center knowledge into the day to day, not just your own output but the team’s.
What the work involves
- Civil design for hyperscale and mission critical data center projects, from feasibility through to permit
- Underground infrastructure specific to data center sites: emergency fuel tank systems, drainage, sewerage, seismic isolated pits, cable and pipe trenches, and fiber pits
- Above-ground site design covering site layout, paving, roads, parking, grading, stormwater management, and ADA compliance
- 3D modelling in Revit within a BIM environment. BIM
360 experience is valued and Revizto knowledge is a bonus - Cross-discipline coordination with architecture, MEP, structural, and fire safety teams
- Document review, design quality assurance, and preparation of tender documents
- Direct client engagement and contribution to design reviews and stakeholder meetings
What they’re looking for
- At least 10 years of civil engineering experience with a relevant degree. Data center design experience is the priority. Whether that is hyperscale greenfield sites, colocation facilities, or mission critical infrastructure of similar complexity, you understand what makes a data center site different from a standard industrial project and that knowledge shapes how you approach the civil design.
- Hands‑on experience with underground infrastructure in a data center context is particularly important. Fuel tank systems, drainage, and below‑grade utility routing are areas where you need to have genuine depth. Beyond that, you are comfortable in a BIM environment using Revit and AutoCAD, and you can prepare and review tender documentation without needing it handed to you.
- You are proactive, communicate clearly across disciplines, and are comfortable engaging directly with clients. English is the working language and Dutch is a welcome addition but not a barrier to applying.
Demand for data center infrastructure is accelerating and the civil engineering behind these facilities is only getting more complex. This consultancy is well positioned in that market, working on projects that require real design depth. If you have built your career in this space and want to stay at the sharp end of it, the timing is good.
If you are interested?
Apply to this role or reach out to Fairplay Engineering directly for a conversation.
The client is confidential at this stage and details are shared once we have connected.
Please note that this position is based in the Netherlands and will require relocation. Relocation support is available and will be discussed as part of the offer process.
We appreciate every application we receive. Given the specific nature of this role, we will only be reaching out to candidates whose background and experience are a strong match. If you have not heard from us within two weeks of applying, please consider your application unsuccessful on this occasion.
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Title: Senior Civil Engineer
Company: FairPlay Engineering
Location: Johannesburg, South Africa
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