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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 Jun 23, 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 engineers make $500,000?

Most entry-level soil engineers do not earn $500,000; such high salaries are typically seen in senior or specialized engineering roles, often in management, consulting, or with extensive experience and advanced certifications. Salaries reaching this level are more common in fields like petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering, rather than entry-level soil engineering positions.

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, often called a soil engineer, assesses soil and rock properties to determine their suitability for construction projects. They perform site investigations, analyze soil samples, prepare reports, and use tools like geotechnical software to support foundation design and stability assessments.

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 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. Gaining knowledge of soil testing, geotechnical analysis, and using tools like soil sampling equipment is essential, along with developing strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Internships or relevant work experience can also improve job prospects, and obtaining professional licensure may be required for advancement.

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, especially 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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,362 per year, or $33.3 per hour.
Geotechnical Engineer (Entry-Level)

Geotechnical Engineer (Entry-Level)

Shannon & Wilson Inc

Anchorage, AK

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

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 worldwide. 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.
  • 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.


 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 EmployerShannon & 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.

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