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Dam Safety Geotechnical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lead Geotechnical Engineer

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$225K - $250K/yr

Lead Geotechnical Engineer Location: Anchorage, AK, with travel to the Donlin Gold Project site and ... Participate in dam safety reviews, risk assessments, and technical review processes. * Support ...

Develop geotechnical monitoring and testing programs as well as analysis of results * Lead ... Dam Safety program. * Technical writing for project documents, as well as review of other engineers ...

Bachelor's degree in Civil or Geotechnical engineering. * Minimum of 5 years of professional ... Experience with dam safety inspections and dam engineering * Experience reading, reviewing, and ...

Bachelor's degree in Civil or Geotechnical engineering. * Minimum of 5 years of professional ... Experience with dam safety inspections and dam engineering * Experience reading, reviewing, and ...

Direct and execute dam safety evaluations, including FERC Part 12, PFMA, risk assessments, and dam ... A minimum of 15 years of geotechnical engineering experience with a keen understanding of civil ...

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Dam Safety Geotechnical Engineer information

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$40K

$92.9K

$147.5K

How much do dam safety geotechnical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for dam safety geotechnical engineer in the United States is $92,871.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,000.00 and $109,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a dam safety geotechnical engineer?

Dam Safety Geotechnical Engineers are specialized civil engineers who focus on assessing, designing, and maintaining the structural integrity and safety of dams and related earth structures. They analyze soil, rock, and groundwater conditions to ensure that dams can withstand various environmental and operational stresses. Their work involves conducting site investigations, performing risk assessments, and recommending repairs or improvements to prevent failures. These engineers play a crucial role in protecting communities, infrastructure, and the environment from potential dam-related hazards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a dam safety geotechnical engineer?

A Dam Safety Geotechnical Engineer requires a solid background in civil or geotechnical engineering, typically with a relevant engineering degree and licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE). Familiarity with geotechnical analysis software, field instrumentation, and dam safety evaluation tools is essential, along with experience in regulatory compliance. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set outstanding professionals apart in this field. These competencies are crucial to ensuring the structural integrity and safety of dams, thereby protecting public safety and the environment.

What are some typical challenges faced by dam safety geotechnical engineers during site inspections?

Dam Safety Geotechnical Engineers often encounter challenges such as limited access to critical dam structures, variable weather conditions that can hinder inspections, and interpreting complex subsurface data to accurately assess potential risks. They must also coordinate closely with operations staff and regulatory agencies to ensure all safety protocols are followed while conducting thorough evaluations. Effective problem-solving and clear communication are essential for addressing unexpected site conditions and ensuring comprehensive safety assessments.

What is the difference between Dam Safety Geotechnical Engineer vs Geotechnical Engineer?

AspectDam Safety Geotechnical EngineerGeotechnical Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, possibly PE license, specialized in dam safetyEngineering degree, PE license, general geotechnical focus
Work EnvironmentHydropower, dam projects, safety inspectionsConstruction sites, infrastructure projects, consulting firms
Industry UsagePrimarily in water resources, dam safety agencies, and utilitiesBroadly in construction, mining, environmental consulting

Dam Safety Geotechnical Engineers specialize in assessing and ensuring the safety of dams, focusing on geotechnical stability and safety protocols. General Geotechnical Engineers work on a wider range of projects involving soil and rock mechanics across various industries. While both roles require similar credentials, their work environments and industry applications differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to Dam Safety Geotechnical Engineer jobs?

For Dam Safety Geotechnical Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Dam Safety Geotechnical Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,871 per year, or $44.6 per hour.

Lead Geotechnical Engineer

Anchorage, AK • On-site

$225K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Lead Geotechnical Engineer

Location: Anchorage, AK, with travel to the Donlin Gold Project site and other project locations as required

Donlin Gold is seeking an experienced Lead Geotechnical Engineer to support geotechnical engineering and dam safety activities for the Donlin Gold Project. This position plays a critical role in the design, evaluation, and management of dams, water retention structures, tailings facilities, foundations, and other key infrastructure associated with one of the world's largest undeveloped gold deposits. 

Working closely with Engineering, Environmental, Water Resources, Construction, Project Controls, regulatory agencies, and external engineering consultants, the Geotechnical Engineer will provide technical expertise and support project development activities from permitting and detailed engineering through construction, commissioning, and operations readiness. 

What You'll Do

  • Support geotechnical engineering activities related to dams, water management structures, tailings facilities, foundations, and associated infrastructure. 
  • Prepare, review, and contribute to geotechnical reports, engineering calculations, designs, and technical evaluations. 
  • Assist with dam safety evaluations, slope stability analyses, seepage assessments, foundation investigations, and geotechnical risk assessments. 
  • Support regulatory permitting activities through preparation of technical documentation and responses to agency requests. 
  • Coordinate geotechnical requirements with civil, hydrology, environmental, construction, and operations teams. 
  • Review consultant studies, engineering reports, and technical deliverables to ensure quality, completeness, and compliance with project requirements. 
  • Participate in dam safety reviews, risk assessments, and technical review processes. 
  • Support development and implementation of geotechnical monitoring, instrumentation, inspection, and surveillance programs. 
  • Identify geotechnical risks and recommend practical mitigation measures that promote safe and cost-effective project execution. 
  • Provide construction support, including field observations, site investigations, quality reviews, and resolution of technical issues. 
  • Support development of geotechnical engineering standards, procedures, and best practices. 
  • Assist in evaluating contractor performance, engineering alternatives, and project execution strategies. 
  • Collaborate with project teams to ensure geotechnical considerations are incorporated into project schedules, budgets, and planning activities. 

What You'll Bring

  • Bachelor's degree in Geotechnical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a related engineering discipline required.
  • Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering preferred.
  • Professional Engineer (PE) designation or eligibility for professional registration in Alaska preferred.
  • Minimum of 7 to 12 years of progressively responsible geotechnical engineering experience.
  • Experience supporting dam safety programs, tailings facilities, water retention structures, or major civil infrastructure projects.
  • Experience supporting large mining, infrastructure, energy, or industrial development projects preferred.
  • Working knowledge of geotechnical engineering principles, including slope stability, seepage analysis, foundation engineering, and earth structures.
  • Familiarity with dam safety regulations, permitting requirements, and engineering standards.
  • Experience with geotechnical analysis software such as GeoStudio or similar tools.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to evaluate complex engineering challenges and develop practical solutions.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including technical report preparation and presentation of engineering findings.
  • Ability to work effectively within multidisciplinary teams and manage multiple priorities in a dynamic project environment.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and engineering document management systems.
  • Experience working in remote, northern, or cold-climate environments is considered an asset.
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States. 

Why Donlin Gold?

The Donlin Gold Project offers a unique opportunity to contribute to one of the world's largest undeveloped gold deposits while working alongside experienced professionals in engineering, environmental management, construction, project controls, and project development. This role provides the opportunity to support the development of critical infrastructure, including dams and water management facilities, while helping advance a world-class mining project through engineering, permitting, construction, and operational readiness. The position is based in Anchorage, Alaska, with periodic travel to the Donlin Gold Project site, consultant offices, regulatory meetings, and other project locations as required. 

Equal Employment Opportunity

Donlin Gold LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Donlin Gold is committed to hiring and advancing qualified local and shareholder candidates from Calista Corporation and The Kuskokwim Corporation.

Ready to Make an Impact?

If you're passionate about workforce development, community engagement, relationship building, and creating opportunities for Alaska's future workforce, we encourage you to apply and join the Donlin Gold team.