What Does a Geotechnical Engineer Do?
A geotechnical engineer evaluates the physical properties of soil, rock, and groundwater to design safe and effective foundations for structures and infrastructure. They play a crucial role in identifying and mitigating geologic risks such as landslides, sinkholes, settlement, or soil liquefaction. Their assessments inform decisions for everything from high-rise buildings and roadways to tunnels and retaining walls.
Geotechnical engineers conduct field investigations, laboratory testing, and modeling to understand subsurface conditions. They interpret geotechnical data to design foundations, slopes, embankments, and underground systems, ensuring compliance with safety standards and building codes. They often collaborate with civil engineers, construction managers, and government agencies on large-scale infrastructure projects.
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Geotechnical Engineer Core Responsibilities
- Perform subsurface investigations including borings, test pits, and sampling
- Analyze soil, rock, and groundwater conditions using lab and field data
- Design shallow and deep foundations, retaining structures, and slope stabilization systems
- Conduct geotechnical modeling using software such as Plaxis, GeoStudio, or Rocscience
- Provide engineering recommendations and risk assessments for construction sites
- Prepare technical reports, drawings, and construction specifications
- Monitor earthworks during construction for compliance with geotechnical plans
- Collaborate with structural, civil, and environmental engineers on integrated designs
- Ensure adherence to building codes, environmental regulations, and safety standards
Required Skills and Qualifications
Hard skills
- Strong understanding of soil mechanics, foundation engineering, and slope stability
- Proficiency with geotechnical software (e.g., Plaxis, Geo5, GeoStudio, Rocscience)
- Experience with lab and field testing methods (e.g., SPT, CPT, triaxial tests)
- Ability to interpret geological and geophysical data
Soft skills
- Analytical thinking and problem-solving in high-risk conditions
- Strong communication and report-writing skills
- Collaborative mindset for working across disciplines
- Detail-oriented with a focus on safety and compliance
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering with a geotechnical concentration or in geotechnical engineering
Certifications
- Required:
- Engineer-in-Training (EIT) for entry-level roles
- Professional Engineer (PE) license required for most senior positions
- Recommended:
- OSHA 40-hour for field site work
- Advanced coursework or certification in rock mechanics or soil dynamics
Preferred Qualifications
- Master’s degree in geotechnical engineering or soil mechanics
- Experience with infrastructure, energy, or heavy civil projects
- Familiarity with international or local geotechnical design codes (e.g., AASHTO, Eurocode 7)
National Average Salary
Geotechnical engineer salaries vary by experience, industry, organization size, and geography. Click below to explore salaries by local market.
The average national salary for a Geotechnical Engineer is:
$87,633
Sample Job Description Templates for Geotechnical Engineers
Junior Geotechnical Engineer
Position Overview
We are hiring a Junior Geotechnical Engineer to assist with field investigations, data analysis, and geotechnical design support for infrastructure, environmental, and construction projects. This entry-level role is ideal for recent graduates ready to build foundational field and design skills.
Responsibilities
- Support soil and rock sampling, logging, and lab coordination
- Assist with geotechnical site investigations and borehole logging
- Analyze field and lab test data under senior supervision
- Prepare draft reports, boring logs, and figures
- Learn to use geotechnical design software and modeling tools
- Ensure proper documentation and data entry for project records
Requirements
Hard skills
- Familiarity with soil classification systems and basic field testing methods
- Introductory knowledge of AutoCAD, GIS, or geotechnical analysis software
- Strong Excel and technical writing skills
Soft skills
- Willingness to travel to field sites and work in varied conditions
- Curiosity and eagerness to learn geotechnical processes
- Strong attention to detail
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, geotechnical engineering, or related field
Certifications
- Engineer-in-Training (EIT) preferred
- OSHA 40-hour certification may be required for site work
Preferred Qualifications
- Internship experience in construction, site investigation, or field sampling
Geotechnical Engineer
Position Overview
We are looking for a Geotechnical Engineer to plan and execute subsurface investigations, analyze data, and design foundations and slope support systems. This role will interface directly with design teams and construction managers.
Responsibilities
- Perform field reconnaissance and oversee drilling operations
- Analyze SPT/CPT data, lab results, and prepare geotechnical reports
- Design shallow and deep foundations, earth retention systems, and embankments
- Perform slope stability and settlement analysis using geotechnical software
- Coordinate with structural and civil engineers during project planning
- Assist with construction monitoring and field quality assurance
Requirements
Hard skills
- Proficiency in geotechnical engineering software (e.g., Plaxis, GeoStudio, Rocscience)
- Foundation and retaining wall design experience
- Knowledge of local codes and geotechnical standards
Soft skills
- Strong communication with both technical and non-technical stakeholders
- Organizational skills for managing multiple projects
- Collaborative and client-oriented approach
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in civil or geotechnical engineering
Certifications
- EIT required; PE license preferred or in progress
Preferred Qualifications
- 2–4 years of relevant geotechnical experience
- Experience preparing geotechnical baseline or data reports
Senior Geotechnical Engineer
Position Overview
We are seeking a Senior Geotechnical Engineer to lead technical evaluations, mentor junior staff, and manage medium to large-scale infrastructure and development projects. This role requires a licensed PE and advanced design capabilities.
Responsibilities
- Lead geotechnical investigations and site characterizations
- Oversee foundation, slope stability, and earth retention system design
- Sign off on engineering reports, calculations, and specifications
- Coordinate with multidisciplinary teams and external stakeholders
- Provide technical oversight during construction and quality control
- Mentor junior engineers and review their technical work
Requirements
Hard skills
- Expert-level use of geotechnical design tools (e.g., Plaxis, Slide2, Settle3D)
- Deep understanding of soil-structure interaction and risk mitigation
- Strong technical writing and report review abilities
Soft skills
- Leadership and team-building abilities
- Proactive client communication and decision-making skills
- Ability to manage project schedules and budgets
Education
- Bachelor’s degree required; master’s degree in geotechnical or civil engineering preferred
Certifications
- Professional Engineer (PE) license required
Preferred Qualifications
- 5–8 years of geotechnical design and field experience
- Experience with transportation, energy, or waterfront infrastructure projects
Lead Geotechnical Engineer
Position Overview
We are hiring a Lead Geotechnical Engineer to oversee technical design, project delivery, and engineering strategy for high-impact infrastructure and environmental projects. This role manages project teams and ensures technical excellence across deliverables.
Responsibilities
- Lead geotechnical scope from concept through construction support
- Approve final engineering designs and sign off on submittals
- Guide complex analyses for deep foundations, earth support, or seismic zones
- Collaborate with project managers on resourcing, schedules, and client meetings
- Conduct peer reviews and support QA/QC procedures
- Mentor staff and participate in technical training development
Requirements
Hard skills
- Mastery of foundation design, retaining systems, and ground improvement methods
- Skilled in interpreting geotechnical risk for high-stakes projects
- Proficiency with advanced modeling and finite element tools
Soft skills
- Effective leader with strategic vision and technical judgment
- Clear communicator with clients and stakeholders
- Strong project planning and staff coordination
Education
- Bachelor’s or master’s degree in civil/geotechnical engineering
Certifications
- Professional Engineer (PE) license required
- Geotechnical Engineer (GE) license preferred in applicable states
Preferred Qualifications
- 10+ years of experience in design and construction support
- Experience leading major infrastructure or transportation projects
Principal Geotechnical Engineer
Position Overview
We are seeking a Principal Geotechnical Engineer to provide strategic technical leadership, oversee complex engineering solutions, and represent the firm as a geotechnical expert. This role sets quality standards, mentors senior staff, and supports business development.
Responsibilities
- Serve as technical lead on flagship geotechnical projects
- Define geotechnical design standards and QA/QC processes
- Oversee high-risk analyses and provide expert review
- Interface with executive leadership and major clients
- Contribute to proposals, project scoping, and client strategy
- Mentor senior-level engineers and participate in hiring decisions
- Promote technical thought leadership within the industry
Requirements
Hard skills
- Expertise in deep foundation systems, tunneling, and ground behavior
- Leadership in seismic design, site response analysis, and remediation
- Recognized proficiency with industry-standard software and modeling tools
Soft skills
- Executive-level client and stakeholder communication
- Leadership in innovation, standard setting, and mentorship
- Strategic thinking with strong business acumen
Education
- Master’s or doctoral degree in geotechnical or civil engineering
Certifications
- Professional Engineer (PE) license required
- GE license or equivalent designation strongly preferred
Preferred Qualifications
- 15+ years of technical and leadership experience
- Published work, conference presentations, or standards committee participation