ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Soil Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

WSP

Early Career Geotechnical Engineer

Anchorage, AK · On-site

Perform routine geotechnical engineering functions and provide entry-level technical assistance on ... soil mechanics, and investigating subsurface and geological conditions to design and build ...

ACAI OPERATIONS INC

Entry Level Civil Engineer

Auburn, AL · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Engineer I is an entry-level engineer-in-training (EIT) position designed to support ongoing civil ... Conduct field activities such as site inspections, surveys, soil testing, and data collection in ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSoil Engineer JobsEntry Level Soil Engineer Jobs

Entry Level Soil Engineer information

See salary details

$30K

$69.4K

$118K

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

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level soil engineer in the United States is $69,362.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,500.00 and $78,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 geotechnical engineer do?

An entry-level geotechnical engineer assists in analyzing soil, rock, and foundation conditions for construction projects. They conduct site investigations, collect data, and use engineering software to support design and safety assessments under supervision.

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 engineer makes $500,000 a year?

While most entry-level soil engineers earn significantly less, senior or specialized engineers in high-demand fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can reach or exceed $500,000 annually with experience, bonuses, and stock options. These roles typically require advanced skills, certifications, and years of experience beyond entry level.

What does it take to become a soil engineer?

To become an entry-level soil engineer, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in geotechnical engineering, civil engineering, or a related field. Relevant skills include knowledge of soil testing, site investigation, and familiarity with geotechnical software; obtaining professional engineering licensure can also enhance career prospects.

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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, often with advanced skills, certifications, and leadership roles. Entry-level soil engineers typically earn significantly less, with salaries increasing with experience and responsibility but rarely reaching that level early in their careers.

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.
More about Entry Level Soil Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Soil Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Soil Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Soil Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Soil Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Soil Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Soil Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Soil Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Soil Engineer jobs are:
Entry Level Soil Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Soil Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 94% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,362 per year, or $33.3 per hour.
Staff Geotechnical/CMT Engineer (Entry Level)

Staff Geotechnical/CMT Engineer (Entry Level)

Hillis-Carnes

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

WHO IS HILLIS-CARNES? Hillis-Carnes Engineering Associates (HCEA) is a multi-disciplined ENR Top 500 engineering firm with 20 offices in the mid-Atlantic and Florida. We have demonstrated a history of success for the past 35 years. We are 100% employee-owned ESOP, and our history of success can be attributed to our motivational employee owners. We believe in fostering teamwork, rewarding ambition, and providing opportunities for professional advancement. At HCEA, we can contribute our continuing success to multiple facets, but above all we are successful because of our knowledgeable, ambitious, and reliable employees who make every day count. As a Staff Engineer in our Pittsburgh office, you will work collaboratively with our knowledgeable geotechnical and construction materials testing/inspections departments and assist with a wide variety of projects for public and private sector clients. Some duties may include but not limited to; test boring/test pit observations, other geotechnical field tests, soil classification, laboratory analysis, preparation of geotechnical reports/calculation, management of field staff, review of daily CMT field reports, occasional performance of on-site construction materials testing services, etc. Requirements · BS and/or MS in Civil Engineering or closely related field. · This is an entry level position and thus no prior professional work experience required. · A valid driver's license/ satisfactory driving record accompanied with a reliable vehicle. · Ability to meet pre-employment requirements. · The ability to (occasionally) work nights, weekends, and travel overnight. · To move up to 60-80 pounds (soil and concrete samples, nuclear gauges, etc). · Ability to read engineering and construction plans/specifications. Preferred Qualifications · Engineer in Training (EIT) license. We are proudly an Equal Opportunity Employer and offer an appealing benefits package. A few of these perks include: 100% Employer-Paid Benefits (Long-Term Disability, Basic Life & Employee Assistance Program), Health (W/ Health Savings Account Option), Disability, 401k w/ Company Match, Generous Compensation for Employee-Referrals, Tuition Reimbursement and many more! For the past several years, Engineering News-Record named Hillis-Carnes to its ranking of Top 500 Design Firms in the nation for its continued rapid growth. Need another reason to join in on the success? We offer an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) in which employees are given shares in the company, held in an outside trust. The more successful the company is, the more valuable the shares become. Want to grow with us? Apply now! Equal Opportunity Employer

Apply