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Earthquake Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Geotechnical Engineer

Kent, WA ยท On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

Geotechnical Earthquake Engineering * Slope Stability and Seepage Analysis * Numerical Modeling * Willing to travel and join construction teams along the West Coast. Pay Range- $75k- $100k. Powered ...

Project Engineer

Kent, WA ยท On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

Strong educational background with excellent course-work record on theoretical soil mechanics, geotechnical earthquake engineering, and foundations design. * Excellent Writing and Speaking Skills

Project Engineer

Kent, WA ยท On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

Strong educational background with excellent course-work record on theoretical soil mechanics, geotechnical earthquake engineering, and foundations design. * Excellent Writing and Speaking Skills

Extensive geotechnical background including a strong fundamental knowledge of principles of geotechnical engineering, soil and rock mechanics, earthquake engineering, pavement engineering, and ...

Principal Geotechnical Engineer

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$150 - $200/hr

... and earthquake engineering. Supervise and lead geotechnical support during construction of geotechnical elements, including shallow foundations, drilled shafts, pile driving, grading, utility ...

Extensive geotechnical background including a strong fundamental knowledge of principles of geotechnical engineering, soil and rock mechanics, earthquake engineering, pavement engineering, and ...

Extensive geotechnical background, including a strong fundamental knowledge of principles of geotechnical and geostructural engineering, soil and rock mechanics, earthquake engineering * Relevant ...

Senior Geotechnical Engineer

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$117K - $176K/yr

A strong background in seismic design and earthquake engineering is essential. You'll take ownership of key project activities, including developing conceptual and numerical models, managing project ...

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Earthquake Engineer information

What does an earthquake engineer do?

An Earthquake Engineer specializes in designing and evaluating structures to withstand the effects of earthquakes. Their work involves analyzing building materials, construction techniques, and local seismic activity to ensure the safety and stability of buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure. They may also develop retrofitting solutions for existing structures and collaborate with architects, city planners, and emergency management teams. Earthquake Engineers play a key role in reducing the risks and impacts associated with seismic events.

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

To thrive as an Earthquake Engineer, you need a solid background in civil or structural engineering, with specialized knowledge in seismic design and analysis, usually supported by an engineering degree and professional licensure (PE or equivalent). Proficiency in structural analysis software (such as SAP2000, ETABS, or STAAD.Pro), seismic codes (like ASCE 7 or Eurocode 8), and earthquake simulation tools is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set outstanding professionals apart in this field. These competencies are crucial for ensuring the safety, resilience, and regulatory compliance of structures in earthquake-prone regions.

What are some common challenges earthquake engineers face when working on retrofitting older structures?

Earthquake Engineers often encounter challenges such as limited access to original building plans, outdated construction materials, and the need to minimize disruptions to the building's occupants during retrofitting projects. Additionally, they must balance strict seismic safety standards with budget constraints and historical preservation requirements. Collaborating closely with architects, contractors, and local authorities is essential to develop innovative solutions that enhance seismic resilience while respecting the building's original design.

What is the difference between Earthquake Engineer vs Structural Engineer?

AspectEarthquake EngineerStructural Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, seismic design certificationsEngineering degree, structural design certifications
Work EnvironmentDesigning earthquake-resistant structures, seismic analysisDesigning various structures, including buildings and bridges
Industry UsageSpecialized in seismic safety and earthquake-resistant designBroader role in structural design across multiple project types

Earthquake Engineers focus specifically on designing structures to withstand seismic forces, while Structural Engineers handle a wide range of structural designs. Both roles require engineering credentials, but Earthquake Engineers specialize in seismic safety, making their expertise crucial in earthquake-prone areas.

How much do earthquake engineers make?

Earthquake engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $80,000 to $120,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior professionals with advanced certifications and specialized skills can earn higher salaries, especially in regions with high seismic activity or large infrastructure projects.
Infographic showing various Earthquake Engineer job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% In-person, 7% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Geotechnical Earthquake Engineer

Condon-Johnson & Associates

Kent, WA โ€ข On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Work as a Geotechnical Earthquake Engineer within the geotechnical engineering group, specializing in earthquake protection. Develop ground improvement designs and budget costs to provide bearing capacity, limit static settlement, and mitigate seismic liquefaction and lateral spread. Support ground improvement design, including drafting and computer analysis to produce a construction-ready set of calculations, plans, and specifications. Field work including site investigations, verification testing, and performance/analysis of load tests.

Requirements
  • Masterโ€™s degree in Civil Engineering with a focus on Geotechnical Engineering, or equivalent, and 2 years of experience in the job offered or any occupation in which the required experience was gained.
  • soil behavior
  • Shallow and deep foundation design
  • Geotechnical earthquake engineering
  • Limit equilibrium slope stability analysis (static and pseudo-static) using GeoStudio Slope/W and Rocscience Slide2
  • Liquefaction analysis, including damage potential, lateral spreading, and settlements
  • Utilizing Python and VBA to support geotechnical analyses
  • Estimation of soil settlement using linear-elastic and non-linear analysis
  • Time-dependent staged consolidation using Settle3D
  • Performing lateral pile analysis using LPILE
  • Preparing detailed geotechnical design and construction drawings using AutoCAD
Benefits
  • 401k and profit sharing
  • health benefits (dental, vision, health, HSA)
  • other discretionary incentives based on performance
  • continuing education & professional development

Other similar duties as assigned.

M-F; 40 hrs/week.

$101,000.00/annum.

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