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Earthworks Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Engineering specifications including earthworks, piling, ground improvement, soil excavation support, etc. * Technical memo, study, and report writing * Vendor submittal review and integration into ...

Utilize your extensive experience in remediation, demolition, construction, environmental, or earthworks projects to effectively manage project elements including equipment, materials, manpower ...

Utilize your extensive experience in remediation, demolition, construction, environmental, or earthworks projects to effectively manage project elements including equipment, materials, manpower ...

Utilize your extensive experience in remediation, demolition, construction, environmental, or earthworks projects to effectively manage project elements including equipment, materials, manpower ...

Staff Engineer

Grass Valley, CA · On-site

$60K - $73K/yr

Experience in earthworks grading, landfill and/or mine design is a plus * Must be proficient with Microsoft Office, AutoCAD and Civil 3D software * Must have strong communication skills, verbal and ...

Geotechnical design and analysis for shallow and deep foundations, earthworks, slopes, seepages, and lateral earth pressures. * Geotechnical earthquake engineering analyses, including ground motion ...

Geotechnical design and analysis for shallow and deep foundations, earthworks, slopes, seepages, and lateral earth pressures. * Geotechnical earthquake engineering analyses, including ground motion ...

Staff Geotechnical Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$72.24 - $97.37/hr

Conducting construction observations, including pile installation, excavations, and earthworks * Supporting senior engineers and project managers with project and proposal duties * Assisting senior ...

Project Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$120 - $150/hr

Heavy civil project experience involving earthworks and/or concrete structures, as well as subcontractor management, work planning, and RFI's. Preferred Qualifications: * Bachelor's Degree in ...

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Earthworks information

What is earthworks?

Earthworks refer to engineering works that involve the movement, processing, or shaping of large quantities of soil or unformed rock. These activities are commonly used in construction projects such as roads, railways, dams, and foundations, where the land needs to be leveled, excavated, or filled. Earthworks can include tasks like grading, trenching, embankment construction, and land reclamation. The primary goal is to prepare the ground to meet the specifications needed for building or infrastructure projects. Modern earthworks use heavy machinery and precise planning to ensure stability and safety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in earthworks, and why are they important?

To thrive in Earthworks, you need a solid understanding of excavation techniques, soil mechanics, and construction safety, often supported by certifications in heavy equipment operation or civil engineering. Familiarity with tools like excavators, bulldozers, GPS grading systems, and project management software is essential. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are critical soft skills for coordinating with crews and ensuring project accuracy. These skills ensure safe, efficient site preparation and compliance with engineering plans, which are vital for successful construction projects.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in earthworks roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Earthworks often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, site safety concerns, and managing tight project deadlines. Adapting to changing site conditions requires flexibility and proactive planning. Effective communication with team members and close collaboration with engineers, surveyors, and equipment operators are key to overcoming obstacles and ensuring projects stay on track. Utilizing technology like GPS-guided machinery and regularly reviewing safety protocols can also help address these challenges and improve efficiency.

What is the difference between Earthworks vs Excavation?

AspectEarthworksExcavation
Primary FocusLarge-scale site preparation, grading, and land developmentRemoving soil or rock to create holes, trenches, or foundations
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, civil engineering projectsConstruction sites, utility installations, foundation work
CredentialsHeavy equipment operation certifications, OSHA safety trainingHeavy equipment operation certifications, OSHA safety training

Earthworks involve large-scale land modification, including grading and site preparation, while excavation focuses on digging trenches or holes for foundations and utilities. Both roles require similar certifications and are performed in construction environments, but their scope and purpose differ significantly.

What are the most commonly searched types of Earthworks jobs in California?

The most popular types of Earthworks jobs in California are:

What job categories do people searching Earthworks jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Earthworks jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Earthworks jobs?

Cities in California with the most Earthworks job openings:

Infographic showing various Earthworks job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution.

Senior Geotechnical Engineer

Bechtel

On-site

Part-time

Posted 10 days ago


Bechtel rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 65 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

284th of 451 rated engineering


Job description

Requisition ID: 295283 

  •  Relocation Authorized: None 
  • Telework Type: Part-Time Telework 
  • Work Location: Brisbane, QLD
Extraordinary teams building inspiring projects:

Since 1898, we have helped customers complete more than 25,000 projects in 160 countries on all seven continents that have created jobs, grown economies, improved the resiliency of the world's infrastructure, increased access to energy, resources, and vital services, and made the world a safer, cleaner place. 

Differentiated by the quality of our people and our relentless drive to deliver the most successful outcomes, we align our capabilities to our customers' objectives to create a lasting positive impact. We serve the Infrastructure; Nuclear, Security & Environmental; Energy; Mining & Metals, and the Manufacturing and Technology markets. Our services span from initial planning and investment, through start-up and operations. 

Core to Bechtel is our Vision, Values and Commitments. They are what we believe, what customers can expect, and how we deliver. Learn more about our extraordinary teams building inspiring projects in our Impact Report. 

Project Overview:

The Project is a greenfield mining, process, material handling and ship loading project with a focus on sustaining production, minimise environmental impacts, strengthen long-term relationships with neighbouring communities and foster local economic development.

Job Summary:

This role will be based in Brisbane with a requirement of extended site presence during site geotechnical investigation in Weipa North QLD. Once the Project moves into execution, the role will convert to Geotechnical Field Engineer overlooking earthworks and special geotechnical construction such as piles, soil-cement improvement, reinforced earth construction, etc.

"This position is designated as part-time telework per our global telework policy and may require at least three days of in-person attendance per week at the assigned office or project. Weekly in-person schedules will be determined by the individual and their supervisor, in consultation with functional or project leadership” 

Major Responsibilities:
  • Supervision and management of geotechnical investigation works
  • Development of geotechnical design parameters for soil and rock supported foundations
  • Bearing capacity and settlement calculations
  • Soil liquefaction assessments and mitigation
  • Ground improvement design and installation
  • Pile design and installation
  • Foundation settlement analysis
  • Soil slope stability analyses
  • Soil excavation support calculations
  • Engineering specifications including earthworks, piling, ground improvement, soil excavation support, etc.
  • Technical memo, study, and report writing
  • Vendor submittal review and integration into the design solution
  • Budget and schedule tracking and quality compliance
  • Coordination with other technical disciplines in planning and executing work as an integrated team
  • Technical support of more junior geotechnical engineers
Education and Experience Requirements:
  • An M.S. degree in Geotechnical Engineering from an accredited university or college and minimum 8 years of progressive related experience; prefer Ph.D. degree in Geotechnical Engineering from an accredited university.
Required Knowledge and Skills:
  • Previous demonstrable experience working with teams of geotechnical engineers (and/or engineering geologists)
  • Knowledge of industry codes and standards (Australian and international) related to geotechnical engineering
  • Knowledge of calculation methods and specialized geotechnical software
  • Experience with geotechnical software such as SLOPE/W, LIPLE, PLAXIS, etc.
  • Experience with Microsoft office programs, and other common computer programs
  • Ability to utilize engineering and office automation tools effectively
  • Knowledge of soil and rock classification systems and field logging methods and procedures
  • Knowledge of geotechnical engineering investigation methods and testing procedures, and laboratory testing
  • Broad knowledge of constructability, construction methods and materials in areas of earthworks, foundations, piling and ground improvement works.
  • Understanding of QA/QC requirements during construction of geotechnical works such as earthworks, piling, soil-cement construction
  • Excellent communication skills (both verbal and written)
  • Ability to communicate in English
Total Rewards/Benefits:

For decades, Bechtel has worked to inspire the next generation of employees and beyond! Because our teams face some of the world's toughest challenges, we offer robust benefits to ensure our people thrive.  Whether it is advancing careers, delivering programs to enhance our culture, or providing time to recharge, Bechtel has the benefits to build a legacy of sustainable growth. Learn more at Bechtel Total Rewards

Diverse teams build the extraordinary:

As a global company, Bechtel has long been home to a vibrant multitude of nationalities, cultures, ethnicities, and life experiences. This diversity has made us a more trusted partner, more effective problem solvers and innovators, and a more attractive destination for leading talent.

We are committed to being a company where every colleague feels that they belong-where colleagues feel part of "One Team," respected and rewarded for what they bring, supported in pursuing their goals, invested in our values and purpose, and treated equitably. Click here to learn more about the people who power our legacy.

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Bechtel is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, age, national origin, disability, citizenship status (except as authorized by law), protected veteran status, genetic information, and any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. Applicants with a disability, who require a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, may e-mail their request to acesstmt@bechtel.com


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