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Entry Level Soil Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Engineer I-III

San Luis Obispo, CA ยท On-site

$82K - $121K/yr

... Engineer. Entry level employees may also work under the direction of a Senior or Engineer III ... Administers consultant contracts for support services such as surveying, soil testing, biological ...

Plans Examiner

Rialto, CA ยท On-site

$5.8K - $7.8K/mo

Plans Examiner I - This is the entry level class in the Plans Examiner series. This class is ... Essential Functions: Reviews and evaluates plans, structural engineering calculations, soil ...

... engineering and construction disciplines, developing the most innovative product and project ... Provide field support in environmental projects such as soil/groundwater sampling. * Perform Field ...

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Entry Level Soil Engineer information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level soil engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Soil Engineer, you need a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, geology, or a related field, along with foundational knowledge of soil mechanics and geotechnical engineering principles. Familiarity with soil testing equipment, CAD software, and industry-specific analysis tools is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are important soft skills that help in interpreting data and collaborating with project teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring accurate site assessments and safe, effective engineering solutions.

What does an entry level soil engineer do?

An Entry Level Soil Engineer assists in investigating soil properties and behaviors to support construction, environmental, and agricultural projects. Their tasks often include collecting soil samples, conducting laboratory tests, analyzing results, and preparing reports under the supervision of senior engineers. They help ensure that building foundations and other structures are designed safely and effectively based on the soil conditions at a site. This role is crucial for preventing structural failures and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.

What is the difference between Entry Level Soil Engineer vs Geotechnical Technician?

AspectEntry Level Soil EngineerGeotechnical Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Civil or Geotechnical Engineering; Engineer-in-Training (EIT) preferredAssociate's or Bachelor's in Civil Engineering or related field; technical certifications optional
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, field sites, soil testing labsField sites, soil sampling, laboratory testing environments
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, construction companies, consulting firmsGeotechnical consulting firms, construction companies, testing labs

Entry Level Soil Engineers typically hold a bachelor's degree and may pursue licensure, focusing on design and analysis. Geotechnical Technicians usually have technical certifications and assist with soil sampling and testing. Both roles work in field and lab environments but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry level soil engineers in their first year on the job?

Entry level soil engineers often face challenges such as adapting to fieldwork conditions, accurately collecting and analyzing soil samples, and learning to interpret geotechnical data under supervision. Adjusting to varying weather and site environments can be demanding, as can mastering the use of specialized equipment and safety protocols. Additionally, collaborating with senior engineers, contractors, and construction teams to ensure clear communication and successful project outcomes is a key part of the learning curve.
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Soil Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Soil Engineer job openings:

Geotechnical Engineer (Entry-Level)

Shannon & Wilson, Inc.

Burbank, CA โ€ข On-site

$70K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Shannon & Wilson is an employee-owned consulting firm headquartered in Seattle, Washington. Committed to technical excellence and high-quality service, we provide integrated geotechnical engineering, engineering geology, environmental and natural resource services for clients. Since 1954, we have delivered comprehensive engineering and environmental solutions for the most challenging infrastructure planning, design, permitting and construction conditions.
We are dedicated to improving our communities, preserving the environment and utilizing the most innovative science practices in all our work.
Responsibilities:
  • Perform geotechnical engineering and geological analyses and calculations.
  • Prepare and write engineering and other reports.
  • Perform field explorations, collection of samples, geologic reconnaissance, and mapping.
  • Perform with construction observation on job sites and prepare summary logs and other documentation.
  • Perform geotechnical lab testing and communicate results.
  • Interact and communicate with clients, vendors, and staff at all levels.
  • Support marketing activities, including preparation of cost proposals.
  • Follow Shannon & Wilson's Quality Assurance policy.
  • Follow and promote Shannon and Wilson's Health and Safety and Loss Prevention policies.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by your supervisor.

Requirements
  • BS in Civil Engineering; and MS or PhD Degree in Geotechnical Engineering strongly preferred.
  • 0 - 6 years of experience in Geotechnical Engineering.
  • Have obtained or in process of receiving a Engineer-in-Training Certificate
  • On track to obtain Professional Engineering (PE) License.
  • Work experience (and/or coursework) in one or more of the following areas: soil mechanics; rock mechanics; rock and soil slope stability; shallow and deep foundations; tunneling; microtunneling; seismic design; earthquake engineering; and retaining structures.
  • Some knowledge or experience of field/construction observation in one or more of the following areas: logging geotechnical explorations, observation of pile driving operations, observations of earthwork activities, installation and recording of geotechnical instrumentation, field reconnaissance, and/or underground work.
  • Excellent writing, organizational, and communication skills.
  • Personable, flexible, and professional demeanor.
  • The ability to work independently with the appropriate level of OR minimal supervision.
  • The willingness and ability to travel to support the needs of other Shannon & Wilson offices.
  • A valid driver license and insurable driving record.
  • Basic computer skills: MS Word, Excel (required); MS Access (desirable).
  • Critical thinking and analysis.
  • Frequent sitting, standing, walking, bending, lifting, and carrying 30+ pounds.
  • Working in all weather conditions, on uneven terrain.
  • The ability to travel (drive or fly) to field sites per project needs and job sites locally and out of state.

Level Placement
Typically, depending on an applicant's education, experience, other qualifications they possess, if they are a fit for the company and local office culture, and the current business needs, an Entry-Level Geotechnical Engineer typically would be placed at a Shannon & Wilson Professional I, II, III, or IV level.
Compensation:
Professional I: $70,304 - $98,340
Professional II: $72,640 - $108,960
Professional III: $79,680 - $119,520
Professional IV: $86,760 - $130,140
Shannon & Wilson is committed to providing a comprehensive total rewards package that includes the following benefits:
  • Employee stock ownership
  • Medical, prescription, vision, dental, long-term care and life insurance plans are offered to employees (and their families).
  • Pre-tax health and daycare FSA
  • Profit sharing and 401(k) plans with annual safe-harbor contributions 10 - 20 paid vacation days per year for full-time employees (prorated for part-time employment) based on year's of experience
  • Since sick leave accrues based on hours worked might be best to list as an hourly accrual, or plan to update for PT postings.
  • 9 paid holidays per year + 1 personal holiday
  • Paid volunteer day
  • Paid time off for bereavement and jury duty
  • Two weeks of paid parental leave
  • Lunch & Live wellness webinars and an Employee Assistance Program
  • Mentorship Program
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Free parking

Shannon & Wilson is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Shannon & Wilson participates in the E-Verify program.
Please note that non-solicited resumes from external recruitment agencies will not be considered as introductions to our business, unless a preapproved agreement is in place and the external recruitment agency has been engaged to work on this specific vacancy.
Salary Description
$70,304 - $130,140