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Associate Geotechnical Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Coordinate with surveyors, geotechnical engineers, structural engineers, and substation electrical ... Level 3: * Associate's degree or technical diploma in Civil Engineering Technology, Drafting ...

Coordinate with surveyors, geotechnical engineers, structural engineers, and substation electrical ... Level 3: * Associate's degree or technical diploma in Civil Engineering Technology, Drafting ...

Associate Job Type: Full Time Nutrien is a leading provider of crop inputs and services, and our ... Manage the procurement and execution of external vendors for a variety of services (geotechnical ...

Showing results 21-34

Associate Geotechnical Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$41.2K

$95.7K

$151.9K

How much do associate geotechnical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate geotechnical engineer in Chicago, IL is $95,670.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,100.00 and $112,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an associate geotechnical engineer do?

An Associate Geotechnical Engineer is responsible for analyzing soil, rock, and other earth materials to determine their suitability for construction projects such as buildings, roads, and bridges. They assist in designing foundations, slopes, and retaining structures, and often conduct site investigations, laboratory testing, and prepare technical reports. Typically, they work under the supervision of senior engineers and collaborate with other professionals to ensure safe and cost-effective project outcomes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate geotechnical engineer?

To thrive as an Associate Geotechnical Engineer, you need a solid background in civil or geotechnical engineering, analytical skills, and typically a bachelor’s or master’s degree in engineering along with an Engineer-in-Training (EIT) or Professional Engineer (PE) certification. Familiarity with geotechnical software (e.g., PLAXIS, GeoStudio), soil testing equipment, and CAD systems is commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are standout soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications ensure the safe and efficient design of foundations and earthworks, contributing to successful project outcomes and client satisfaction.

How does an associate geotechnical engineer typically collaborate with other disciplines on a project?

As an Associate Geotechnical Engineer, you'll regularly collaborate with structural engineers, civil engineers, and construction teams to ensure geotechnical recommendations are integrated into overall project designs. This often involves attending project meetings, sharing soil and site investigation findings, and resolving technical queries related to foundations, earthworks, or slope stability. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as your analyses directly impact safety, design feasibility, and construction methods. You'll also coordinate with project managers to align deliverables and timelines, helping ensure smooth project progress.

What is the difference between Associate Geotechnical Engineer vs Geotechnical Engineer?

AspectAssociate Geotechnical EngineerGeotechnical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in geotechnical engineering or related field; entry-level certification often preferredBachelor's or master's degree; professional engineering license may be required for senior roles
Work EnvironmentAssists in field investigations, data analysis, and report preparation under supervisionConducts site assessments, designs geotechnical solutions, and manages projects
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed by consulting firms, construction companies, and engineering firmsUsed across similar industries, often with more project management responsibilities

In summary, an Associate Geotechnical Engineer typically holds an entry-level position focused on supporting geotechnical projects, while a Geotechnical Engineer has more experience and responsibilities, including project design and management.

What are the most commonly searched types of Geotechnical Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Geotechnical Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Associate Geotechnical Engineer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Associate Geotechnical Engineer job openings:

Substation Civil Site Designer

Leidos

Chicago, IL • On-site

$48K - $86K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Leidos rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 152 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

79th of 495 rated business services


Job description

We are looking for a skilled and experienced Substation Civil Site Designer to work out of our Chicago office or remotely.
In this role, you will work alongside Civil engineers to develop site design drawing packages and supporting documentation for electric utility substation projects. Projects range from greenfield substations to brownfield expansions and require coordination with multiple engineering disciplines. (While substation experience is preferred, it is not required)
Responsibilities Include:
  • Develop new and modify existing substation civil site plan drawings.
  • Prepare grading, drainage, and stormwater management plans.
  • Develop erosion and sediment control plans in accordance with local and state requirements.
  • Prepare roadway, access drive, and site layout plans.
  • Perform earthwork grading and cut/fill balancing using Civil 3D or OpenRoads/MicroStation workflows.
  • Perform AutoTURN analyses for construction and maintenance vehicle access.
  • Prepare utility layouts including storm sewer, sanitary, and water service plans where required.
  • Develop permit-ready civil drawing packages for utility and agency review.
  • Assist with preparation of permitting exhibits and support environmental and jurisdictional permitting efforts.
  • Coordinate with surveyors, geotechnical engineers, structural engineers, and substation electrical teams.
  • Review civil-related vendor drawings and incorporate comments as required.
  • Assist with quantity takeoffs and preparation of project deliverables.
  • Apply applicable client standards, local agency requirements, and industry best practices to all assignments.

Substation Civil Site Designer Qualifications:
  • Level 3:
    • Associate's degree or technical diploma in Civil Engineering Technology, Drafting Technology, or related field.
    • Minimum 2 years of civil site design experience using MicroStation.
  • Level 4:
    • Associate's degree or technical diploma in Civil Engineering Technology, Drafting Technology, or related field.
    • Minimum 3 years of civil site design experience using MicroStation.
  • Strong proficiency with MicroStation (required).
  • Experience developing civil site plans for utility, industrial, commercial, or municipal projects.
  • Working knowledge of grading design and earthwork calculations.
  • Experience preparing erosion and sediment control plans.
  • Familiarity with stormwater management principles and permitting requirements.
  • Experience performing AutoTURN vehicle turning analyses.
  • Understanding of site development permitting processes and agency coordination.
  • Ability to interpret survey and geotechnical information.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Word and Excel.
  • Strong communication and organizational skills.
  • Ability to work both independently and within multidisciplinary engineering teams.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality deliverables.

Substation Site Civil Designer Preferred Experience/Additional information:
  • Experience supporting electric utility substation projects.
  • Familiarity with utility client standards.
  • Experience with HEC-RAS, Hydraflow, HydroCAD, or similar hydrology software.
  • Knowledge of SWPPP preparation and stormwater permitting requirements.
  • Experience coordinating local, county, and state permitting agencies.

At Leidos, we pride ourselves on being a trusted and technology-focused solutions provider. Our Power Delivery Services Team is the go-to for utilities and mobile operators who need reliable power and telecommunication expertise. We've worked with over 50 investor-owned utilities, over 160 municipals/cooperatives, and we're continuing to expand our reach. Plus, we've got an amazing group of industry-leading construction partners who help us deliver meaningful Energy Delivery Solutions. Our recognition as an industry leader has been confirmed time and time again. Engineering News-Record (ENR) has ranked Leidos among the Top 10 T&D Firms and Top 10 Power Firms.
At Leidos, the opportunities are boundless. We challenge our staff with interesting assignments that provide them with an opportunity to thrive, professionally and personally. For us, helping you grow your career is good business. Your greatest work is ahead!
PDSSUBSTATION
PowerDelivery
If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo - because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 - and moving faster than anyone else dares.
Original Posting:
August 5, 2026
For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.
Pay Range:
Pay Range $48,100.00 - $86,950.00
The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.

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About Leidos

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable practices. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Reston, VA, US

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