2

Entry Level Geotechnical Engineer Jobs in California

Land Surveyor

Diamond Bar, CA · On-site

$75K - $115K/yr

We combine consulting and engineering with advanced analytics and technology to solve the world ... Qualifications : * 0 to 4 years of relevant experience. * Entry-level candidates are encouraged to ...

Showing results 41-41

Entry Level Geotechnical Engineer information

See California salary details

$39.5K

$91.7K

$145.6K

How much do entry level geotechnical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level geotechnical engineer in California is $91,654.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,100.00 and $107,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level geotechnical engineer?

An Entry Level Geotechnical Engineer is a professional who assists in analyzing soil, rock, and groundwater conditions to support construction and infrastructure projects. They help conduct field investigations, laboratory testing, and geotechnical analysis to assess site stability and foundation design. Their work ensures the safety and feasibility of structures such as buildings, bridges, and roads. They typically collaborate with senior engineers, geologists, and project managers to develop reports and recommendations.

What does an entry level geotechnical engineer do?

A typical day for an Entry Level Geotechnical Engineer involves a combination of fieldwork, such as conducting soil borings and site investigations, and office tasks like analyzing data and preparing reports. You may spend time collaborating with senior engineers, learning industry standards, and participating in meetings to discuss project progress. There is often a mix of independent work and teamwork, as you assist with designing foundations, retaining walls, or evaluating site risks. The variety in daily activities provides valuable learning opportunities and helps you develop a strong foundation for future advancement in geotechnical engineering.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Geotechnical Engineer, you typically need a degree in civil or geotechnical engineering, a solid grasp of soil mechanics, and basic field investigation experience. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, gINT, and slope stability analysis programs, as well as internships or EIT certification, is often advantageous. Strong communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and a willingness to learn help candidates excel in team and client settings. These capabilities are crucial for ensuring the safety, technical accuracy, and efficiency of geotechnical projects from initial investigation through design.

Can you be an entry level geotechnical engineer without a degree?

Entry level geotechnical engineers typically need at least a bachelor's degree in geotechnical engineering, civil engineering, or a related field. While some entry-level positions may accept relevant internships or technical certifications, a formal degree is generally required to qualify for the role and perform core responsibilities. Practical skills in soil analysis, geotechnical software, and safety standards are also important for entry-level candidates.

Is there a demand for entry level geotechnical engineers?

There is steady demand for entry level geotechnical engineers due to ongoing infrastructure projects, construction, and environmental assessments. Employers seek candidates with strong technical skills, familiarity with geotechnical software, and relevant internships or certifications. Job growth is expected to align with the broader engineering sector, especially in regions with active development.

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

The most popular types of Geotechnical Engineer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Geotechnical Engineer jobs in California?

For Entry Level Geotechnical Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Geotechnical Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Geotechnical Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Geotechnical Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $91,654 per year, or $44.1 per hour.

Land Surveyor

Tetra Tech, Inc.

Diamond Bar, CA • On-site

$75K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 16 days ago


Tetra Tech rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

404th of 450 rated engineering


Job description

Discover your full potential. At Tetra Tech, we are collaborating with industry-leading experts for a sustainable future for our world. We combine consulting and engineering with advanced analytics and technology to solve the world's most complex challenges. Our innovation hubs across the globe will enable you to share ideas and best practices while growing your professional network. Wherever you are in your career journey, you will benefit from working with world-class engineers, scientists, and technical specialists.
At Tetra Tech, we are Leading with Science to solve the world's most complex challenges. Our industry-leading experts in engineering and consulting are committed to driving positive change in communities around the world. For over 50 years, we have been at the forefront of innovation and sustainability. Today we stand as a market leader, offering cutting-edge solutions in water, environment, energy, and international development. Our work has improved more than 625 million lives around the world.
Join Tetra Tech to make a real difference. Our work leverages cutting-edge technologies, advanced analytics, and the expertise of world-class scientists and engineers to create meaningful change around the world. Discover your full potential - join us to advance your career while leaving a lasting legacy.
Apply today and join the company that is Leading with Science®.
Tetra Tech performs civil infrastructure design, land surveying, and permitting support for a combination of municipal governments and private companies throughout the US. Our team is growing at a steady pace and needs a Land Surveying Field/Office Technician in our Diamond Bar, CA office to continue supporting future and ongoing contracts. Our office consists of several technical disciplines that provide services within the environmental, geotechnical, mechanical, civil, construction, surveying, and field services sectors. This position is ideal for a motivated individual seeking a long-term career path that combines civil engineering design, field surveying, infrastructure development, and construction support within a collaborative and growing professional environment. The pay scale for this position is $75K-$115K annually, based on qualifications and experience.
Your Role:
  • Prepare site layout plans, grading plans, engineering cost estimates, and technical specifications.
  • Attend design meetings and meet with clients through video conferencing and in-person meetings throughout California.
  • Perform limited-duration field construction administration assignments throughout California and other parts of the western United States.
  • Provide construction support by responding to field requests and performing periodic site inspections.
  • Create and manage 3D surfaces to produce design drawings and volume calculations.
  • Work on design teams to develop heavy civil infrastructure projects, including grading, drainage, roads, tanks, pipelines, and concrete structures using AutoCAD Civil 3D.
  • Perform surface water hydrology and hydraulic studies.

Qualifications:
  • 0 to 4 years of relevant experience.
  • Entry-level candidates are encouraged to apply; training and mentorship will be provided.
  • Familiarity with civil engineering and/or land surveying principles is preferred.
  • Strong ability to work outdoors and perform fieldwork in varying terrain and weather conditions.
  • Experience with AutoCAD Civil 3D is preferred.
  • Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Strong mathematical, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work effectively in a team environment with both local and remote team members.
  • Well-developed verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple assignments and meet project deadlines.
  • Valid driver's license and acceptable driving record.
  • Experience with survey equipment, GPS, total stations, data collectors, or engineering consulting projects is considered an asset.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • AutoCAD Civil 3D experience.
  • Bachelor's degree (B.S.) in Civil Engineering, Surveying/Geomatics.
  • Understanding of surveying, construction layout, grading, and civil site development.
  • Familiarity with GPS, robotic total stations, and survey data collection software.
  • Knowledge of topographic, boundary, and construction surveying practices.
  • Interest in pursuing professional licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE) and/or Professional Land Surveyor (PLS).

What's in it for you?
  • On-the-job training, dedicated training seminars, and mentorship programs.
  • Competitive salary and benefits.
  • 401(k) plan with matching contributions (50% up to 6% of salary).
  • A stable and diverse team environment which enables collaboration with both early-career and experienced professionals.
  • Exposure to a broad range of civil engineering and land surveying projects.
  • Career development opportunities in both engineering and surveying disciplines.
  • Opportunity to work both outdoors and in the office.
  • Professional license support and reimbursement.

Life at Tetra Tech:
The perks of working at Tetra Tech include:
  • Comprehensive and market-competitive benefits.
  • Merit-based financial rewards.
  • Flexibility and company-wide commitment to work/life balance.
  • Collaborative team atmosphere that values the contributions of all employees.
  • Learning and development opportunities for ongoing professional growth.

About Tetra Tech:
Tetra Tech is the leader in water, environment, and sustainable infrastructure, providing high-end consulting and engineering services for projects worldwide. With 25,000 employees working together, Tetra Tech provides clear solutions to complex problems by Leading with Science® to address the entire water cycle, protect and restore the environment, design sustainable and resilient infrastructure, and support the clean energy transition.
Tetra Tech is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law. Tetra Tech is a VEVRAA federal contractor and we request priority referral of veterans.
We invite applications from all interested parties.
Explore our open positions at https://www.tetratech.com/careers. Follow us on social media to learn more about our people, culture, and opportunities:
LinkedIn: @TetraTechCareers
X (Twitter): @TetraTechJobs
We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those candidates selected for interviews will be contacted.
Please no phone calls or agencies.

What Tetra Tech employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Tetra Tech logo

About Tetra Tech

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Tetra Tech combines the resources of a global, multibillion-dollar company with local, client-focused delivery in more than 450 locations around the world. Our reputation rests on the technical expertise and dedication of our employees-21,000 associates working together to provide smart, scalable solutions for challenging projects. We are proud to be home to leading technical experts in water, environment, infrastructure, resource management, energy, and international development.

Industry

Civil engineering construction and environmental consulting services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Pasadena, CA, US