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Entry Level Soil Engineer information

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$30K

$69.4K

$118K

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

As of Jul 13, 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.
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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.
Geotechnical Engineer Associate I

Geotechnical Engineer Associate I

Thompson Engineering

Dallas, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Position Summary

Thompson Engineering is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Geotechnical Engineer Associate I to join our Geotechnical Engineering team for our Dallas, TX office. This is an entry-level position designed for recent graduates or early-career engineers who are beginning their professional engineering careers. The selected candidate will work under the supervision of licensed Professional Engineers and will support geotechnical investigations, analysis, reporting, and construction-phase services on a variety of projects across the Southeast.

Key Responsibilities

  • Assist with subsurface exploration programs, including coordination of drilling activities and field logging of soil and rock samples
  • Perform basic geotechnical engineering analyses under supervision, including bearing capacity, settlement, slope stability, and earthwork evaluations
  • Support preparation of geotechnical engineering reports, technical memoranda, and recommendations
  • Review laboratory and field test data and assist with interpretation of results
  • Participate in construction observation and materials testing activities as required
  • Assist with preparation of proposals, cost estimates, and project documentation
  • Follow established safety policies and quality control procedures
  • Communicate effectively with project managers, field staff, and clients

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline
  • Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification or the ability to obtain EIT within a reasonable timeframe preferred
  • Basic knowledge of geotechnical engineering principles, soil mechanics, and foundation systems
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications; familiarity with geotechnical software is a plus
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
  • Willingness to perform field work and occasional travel as required

Physical and Work Environment Requirements

  • Ability to work in outdoor and construction site environments
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and perform field-related tasks
  • Willingness to work flexible hours based on project needs