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Entry Level Dam Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

GEI Consultants

Staff Engineer - Geotechnical

Pasadena, CA · Hybrid

$31.25 - $43.26/hr

... dam appurtenances, instrumentation, excavation support systems, building and bridge foundations, floodwalls, tunnels, and ground treatment. Entry level engineers support senior staff and plan ...

GEI Consultants

Staff Engineer - Geotechnical

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$31.25 - $43.26/hr

... dam appurtenances, instrumentation, excavation support systems, building and bridge foundations, floodwalls, tunnels, and ground treatment. Entry level engineers support senior staff and plan ...

All JobsDam Engineer JobsEntry Level Dam Engineer JobsEntry Level Dam Engineer Jobs in California

Entry Level Dam Engineer information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Dam Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Dam Engineer, you need a bachelor's degree in civil or environmental engineering and a solid understanding of hydrology, structural analysis, and geotechnical principles. Familiarity with design software such as AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and hydraulic modeling tools, as well as knowledge of industry standards, is typically required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help you collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams and stakeholders. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring the safety, functionality, and regulatory compliance of dam projects.

What does an Entry Level Dam Engineer do?

An Entry Level Dam Engineer assists in the design, construction, inspection, and maintenance of dams and related water-retaining structures. They work under the supervision of experienced engineers to perform site assessments, collect data, prepare technical reports, and ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations. Their responsibilities may also include using engineering software to create models and drawings, as well as supporting project management tasks. This role provides foundational experience in civil engineering, with a focus on hydraulic structures and water resource management.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level dam engineers during their first year on the job?

Entry-level dam engineers often encounter challenges such as understanding the complexities of hydrological modeling, learning to interpret technical drawings, and adapting to strict regulatory requirements. They may also need to quickly develop skills in collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, including geologists, environmental scientists, and construction crews. Additionally, balancing fieldwork with office tasks and becoming proficient with industry-specific software are typical hurdles. Support from experienced colleagues and ongoing training can help ease this transition.

What is the difference between Entry Level Dam Engineer vs Entry Level Civil Engineer?

AspectEntry Level Dam EngineerEntry Level Civil Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Civil Engineering, Engineer-in-Training (EIT) or Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) examBachelor's in Civil Engineering, EIT or FE exam
Work EnvironmentDesign, construction, and maintenance of dams and water infrastructureVarious infrastructure projects including roads, bridges, and water systems
Employer & Industry UsageWater resource agencies, engineering firms, construction companiesPublic and private sector engineering firms, government agencies

Entry Level Dam Engineers focus specifically on dam-related projects, requiring specialized knowledge in water resources and hydraulics, while Entry Level Civil Engineers have a broader scope across various infrastructure projects. Both roles typically require similar educational backgrounds and entry-level certifications, but Dam Engineers work primarily in water resource and dam safety sectors.

What are the most commonly searched types of Dam Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Dam Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Dam Engineer jobs in California? For Entry Level Dam Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Dam Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Dam Engineer jobs in California are:
Entry Level Dam Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Dam Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Hybrid job distribution.
Staff Engineer - Geotechnical

Staff Engineer - Geotechnical

GEI Consultants

Pasadena, CA • Hybrid

$31.25 - $43.26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

GEI Consultants rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

272nd of 442 rated engineering

Job description

Description

Your role at GEI. 
 
GEI is seeking a motivated civil engineer with advanced education in geotechnical engineering (preferred) to assist with complex and challenging projects at locations in California and throughout the United States. GEI's California engineering practice provides services on a wide range of projects including levees, dams and dam appurtenances, instrumentation, excavation support systems, building and bridge foundations, floodwalls, tunnels, and ground treatment.  Entry level engineers support senior staff and plan, observe and document field explorations and construction activities, perform and review analyses and design calculations, and assist in the preparation of technical correspondence, including reports, letters, and design memos.
 
Job Flexibility
 
GEI is instituting a hybrid workplace environment, which allows workers to choose from a range of options allowing a combination of work from home and in the office. This can range from a telecommuting option (work from home), work in the office a minimum of 2-days a week, or work in the office a minimum of 3-days a week. This allows for a forward-looking flexible work environment in our office of the future.
 
Essential Responsibilities & Duties 
  • Support senior staff on a variety of engineering projects focused on geotechnical instrumentation, geotechnical investigations, design support for other heavy civil/geotechnical projects, reinforced concrete structure design, design implementation and document preparation.
  • Support the evaluation and design efforts as part of a team by performing geotechnical engineering modeling, analysis, and design calculations.
  • Prepare design and construction drawings and specifications using computer aided design and drafting equipment.
  • Prepare written documentation, including technical memos, reports, and construction specifications.
  • Prepare cost estimates, schedules, and construction documents, monitor construction activities in the field.
  • Work out of office on field assignments up to 50% of the time.  Potential work on out of area temporary assignments is expected with project durations of up to 2-3 weeks at a time.
  • Assisting with proposals and business development activities.
Minimum Qualifications 
  • B.S. in Civil Engineering.  M.S. in Civil Engineering preferred but not required.
  • EIT Certification strongly preferred but not required.
  • Background in geotechnical engineering, including a fundamental knowledge of principles of geotechnical engineering and earthquake engineering.
  • Self-motivated with ability to work independently and collaboratively as a team member.
  • Proficient with MS Office, AutoCAD, AutoCAD Civil 3D, and GeoStudio. GIS experience strongly preferred.
  • Willing to perform field work as required.
  • Must have a valid driver's license and be willing to work in the field as needed.
We are GEI. 
 
Some of the world’s most pressing problems – from climate change to sustainable development, to critical infrastructure and the future of our energy supply – need our brightest and diverse minds working together to create safer, more resilient communities for tomorrow.
  
We are technical experts, collaborators, and entrepreneurs who draw from diverse backgrounds to solve our clients’ most complex challenges.  
 
With several offices across North America, we offer a range of engineering, science, and technical consulting services. Our range of expertise, project types, and culture make us the choice for top talent in the AEC industry. See all our office locations here.
 
Employee-owned. Employee-focused.  
 
As an employee-owned company, our employees support our flat leadership structure, have a say in how our business operates and benefit from our financial success. We are committed to employee growth with career development opportunities, competitive total rewards, a well-being program, flexible work arrangements and more.  Our company culture is driven by our 4 Cs – we are Client-Centered, Curious, Collaborative, and Community Minded – which support our focus on sustainability, safety, diversity, equity and inclusion. Get to know us better by visiting GEI’s career site here.
 
GEI’s Total Rewards Package Includes 
  • Market-Competitive Compensation, including Eligibility for an Annual Performance Bonus
  • Pay Range For This Position: $31.25 – $43.26/hour
  • Comprehensive Benefits Program, including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Disability and More
  • Well-Being Program and Paid Parental Leave
  • Commuter Benefits
  • Hybrid Work Schedules and Cell Phone Stipends
  • GEI University (GEIU) with Continuing Education Assistance and Tuition Reimbursement
  • Connecting Conversation Program with a Focus on Professional Development and Opportunities for Advancement
  • Support and Financial Rewards for Publication Awards, Professional Dues, and Professional Licenses
  • Paid Holidays and Generous Paid Time Off Program
  • Rewards and Recognition
  • GEI-Funded Profit Sharing and 401(k)
  • Opportunity to be an Owner and Shareholder (Learn more here)
  • A Vibrant Culture that is Focused on Partnership, Sustainability, Giving Back to Our Communities and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
  • And More…
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS 
       WORK ENVIRONMENT  
  
  
  
Functional Demands:    
 
 
 
 
Sedentary
X 
Light
 
Medium
Other
 
 
Activity Level Throughout Workday (check one per row) 
Physical Activity Requirements
Occasional
(0-35% of day)
Frequent
(33-66% of day)
Continuous
(67-100% of day)
Not Applicable
Sitting
 
X 
 
 
Standing
X 
 
 
 
Walking
X 
 
 
 
Climbing
X 
 
 
 
Lifting (floor to waist level) (in pounds)
X 
 
 
 
Lifting (waist level and above) (in pounds)
X 
 
 
 
Carrying objects
X 
 
 
 
Push/pull
X 
 
 
 
Twisting
X 
 
 
 
Bending
X 
 
 
 
Reaching forward
X 
 
 
 
Reaching overhead
X 
 
 
 
Squat/kneel/crawl
X 
 
 
 
Wrist position deviation
X 
 
 
 
Pinching/fine motor skills
 
 
 
X 
Keyboard use/repetitive motion
 
X 
 
 
Taste or smell (taste=never)
X 
 
 
 
Talk or hear
 
X 
 
 
Accurate 20/40 
Very Accurate 20/20 
Not Applicable
Near Vision
X 
 
Far Vision
X 
 
 
 

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