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Geomechanical Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Applied Physics

Seismologist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Ability to formulate novel solutions related to understanding of the geomechanical behavior of subsurface reservoirs and the underlying physical processes leading to induced seismicity, and/or other ...

Applied Physics

Seismologist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Ability to formulate novel solutions related to understanding of the geomechanical behavior of subsurface reservoirs and the underlying physical processes leading to induced seismicity, and/or other ...

Applied Physics

Seismologist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Ability to formulate novel solutions related to understanding of the geomechanical behavior of subsurface reservoirs and the underlying physical processes leading to induced seismicity, and/or other ...

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Geomechanical information

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$33K

$63.3K

$91.5K

How much do geomechanical jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for geomechanical in the United States is $63,279.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,500.00 and $71,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Geomechanical vs Geotechnical Engineer?

AspectGeomechanicalGeotechnical Engineer
Required credentialsGeology or geotechnical engineering degree, certifications in geomechanicsGeotechnical engineering degree, PE license, certifications in geotechnical analysis
Work environmentField and laboratory work focused on rock and soil mechanicsSite investigations, design, and analysis of soil and foundation systems
Industry usageMining, oil & gas, tunneling, and underground constructionConstruction, infrastructure, foundation design, and environmental projects

Geomechanical professionals focus on understanding the mechanical behavior of rocks and soils, often working in mining and tunneling projects. Geotechnical engineers handle soil and foundation analysis for construction and infrastructure. While both roles require similar credentials and work environments, their application areas differ, with geomechanics emphasizing rock mechanics and geotechnical engineering focusing on soil and foundation stability.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Geomechanical Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Geomechanical Engineer, you need a solid background in geology, geotechnical engineering, and numerical modeling, often supported by a degree in civil or geological engineering. Familiarity with technical tools such as finite element analysis software (e.g., FLAC, PLAXIS), geotechnical testing equipment, and relevant certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) licensure is common. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills help you interpret data and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. These abilities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and cost-effective solutions in projects involving earth materials and structures.

What are geomechanical engineers?

Geomechanical engineers are professionals who study and analyze the mechanical behavior of earth materials, such as soil and rock, to ensure the stability and safety of structures like tunnels, dams, oil wells, and mines. They use their expertise in geology, physics, and engineering to assess how the ground will respond to construction, drilling, or natural forces like earthquakes. Their work is essential in preventing ground failure, landslides, and other geotechnical hazards. Geomechanical engineers often collaborate with civil, mining, and petroleum engineers on large infrastructure projects.

What are some common challenges faced by geomechanical engineers when working on multidisciplinary projects?

Geomechanical engineers often collaborate closely with geologists, reservoir engineers, and drilling teams, which can present challenges in aligning technical perspectives and integrating diverse data sets. Effective communication is key, as different disciplines may use varying terminologies and methodologies. Additionally, interpreting subsurface data can be complex due to uncertainties in rock properties and field conditions, requiring adaptability and problem-solving skills to develop reliable models and recommendations.
More about Geomechanical jobs
What cities are hiring for Geomechanical jobs? Cities with the most Geomechanical job openings:
What states have the most Geomechanical jobs? States with the most job openings for Geomechanical jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Geomechanical jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Geomechanical jobs are:
Geomechanical jobs near you
Infographic showing various Geomechanical job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 96% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 81% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,279 per year, or $30.4 per hour.
Chief Underground Geomechanical Engineer

Chief Underground Geomechanical Engineer

Freeport McMoRan

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago

Freeport-McMoRan rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 137 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 32 rated mining

Job description

Why You Should Apply for This Job  

At Freeport-McMoRan, we are committed to providing an employment package that recognizes excellence, encourages safe production and a culture supported by our core values. Here, you’ll find a collaborative environment where safety is a top priority, all opinions are valued, and people are empowered to grow in their career. Apply Today!

Where You Will Work    

Our global headquarters is in Phoenix, Arizona. Several hundred employees support global operations in finance, human resources, information technology, planning and more from the main office, satellite offices or online. As a Hybrid employee, you’ll engage in virtual collaboration as well as attend in-person meetings at our Collaboration Hub in Phoenix or at one of our site locations. The Collaboration Hub provides an open, flexible workspace for individuals and teams to come together for various business needs. Amenities at the Hub include a working café, phone booths and meeting rooms with technology tools for virtual and in-person collaboration. In-person attendance may vary based on the position and department requirements. 

Phoenix is the capital of the Grand Canyon State and enjoys mostly bright skies throughout the year. It is the perfect place if you enjoy the outdoors, love sports, concerts and other big city amenities or technology. There are great neighborhoods around Phoenix, with easy access to a major city, nature, the arts and many more amenities.  

What You Will Do

This position will oversee underground geotechnical aspects related to underground mine design, planning, and implementation. Includes excavation stability management, development design, production planning, underground excavation support design, stability monitoring, and will serve as resource for Geomechanical information and analysis.

  • Perform critical review of technical reports, analyses, design plans, specifications, cost estimates and develop appropriate recommendations. Stay abreast of the state of the practice in geotechnical engineering to fulfill this role.
  • Manage and review underground excavation stability, analysis and remedial work including underground excavation monitoring, data processing, rock strength parameters, and geologic structures.
  • Develop, maintain, and implement strategic plans to promote safe execution of the mine designs and production plans.
  • Manage projects and serve as subject matter expert (SME) on large/complex site planning/construction, expansion, or modifications. Provide guidance to site managers and engineers on applicable programs, practices, and regulations.
  • Develop and review ground support designs for underground excavations to ensure a safe working environment based on relevant geological/geotechnical data and stress conditions using empirical (Q or RMR), kinematic (unWedge) and numerical (RS3, Map3) based analysis methods.
  • Provide input and oversight related to the development, implementation, and monitoring of management plans and procedures related to corporate governance.
  • Proactively seek improvements to the safe mining of mine reserves relating to underground excavation monitoring, underground excavation maintenance, underground excavation support designs, Geomechanical data acquisition and analyses.
  • Manage and provide Geomechanical project oversight and review relating to outside consultants.
  • Evaluate and administer contracts with vendors for the provision of services and equipment.
  • Represent the site on company sponsored steering committees, task forces, or teams.
What You Bring To Freeport
  • Bachelor’s degree in Geological Engineering/Geotechnical Engineering/Mining Engineering or related engineering discipline from an accredited curriculum, with courses in rock mechanics and geotechnical engineering and seven (7) years of experience in applicable field of expertise, including lead or supervisory experience; OR
  • Master’s degree in Geological Engineering/Geotechnical Engineering/Mining Engineering or related engineering discipline from an accredited curriculum, with courses in rock mechanics and geotechnical engineering and five (5) years of experience in applicable field of expertise, including lead or supervisory experience
  • Experience working as a Geomechanical/Geotechnical engineer at underground mining operations or as a consultant with extensive practical experience supporting underground mining operations.
  • Knowledge in the principles and practices of mining, rock mechanics, geological, and/or geotechnical engineering or a related field of science or engineering
  • Technical and analytical skills to undertake and review complex designs and mine plans.
  • Experience in and knowledge of numerical modeling approaches to solving engineering challenges.
  • Knowledge of appropriate software (MS Office, AutoCAD, and geotechnical analysis)
  • Fluent in English.
  • Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing to a diversely educated audience.
  • Ability to develop and maintain awareness of occupational hazards and safety of yourself and others.
  • Skilled in following safety practices and recognizing hazards.
  • Ability and willingness to travel internationally for at least 2 weeks every quarter.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Field experience gained at an underground and preferably caving operation.
  • Experience in rockmass characterization, interpretation of geotechnical lab tests, and engineering analysis.
  • Project Management experience.
  • Proficiency in using geotechnical software.

What We Offer You 

The estimated annual pay range for this role is currently $120,000-$167,500. This range reflects base salary only and does not include bonus payments, benefits or retirement contributions. Actual base pay is determined by experience, qualifications, skills and other job-related factors. This role is eligible for additional incentive compensation considerations based on company and individual performance.  Additionally, this position is currently eligible for annual long-term incentive consideration.  Long-term incentives are contingent upon authorized approval under the terms and conditions of the Company's plan and award agreements.  More details will be shared during the hiring process. Click here to view a sample of Total Rewards Estimate for this role.   

  • Affordable medical, dental and vision benefits  
  • Company-paid life and disability insurance  
  • 401(k) plan with employer contribution/match  
  • Paid time off, paid sick time, holiday pay, parental leave  
  • Tuition Assistance  
  • Employee Assistance Program  
  • Discounted insurance plans for auto, home and pet  
  • Internal progression opportunities  
  • Learn more about our competitive and comprehensive benefits package!  

What We Require  

Freeport-McMoRan promotes a drug/alcohol-free work environment using mandatory pre-employment drug testing as allowed by applicable laws.  

Equal Opportunity Employer 

Please be advised Freeport-McMoRan will never request payment for job-related expenses from applicants. If you receive any suspicious emails, please disregard them, and report the incident to HRSC@fmi.com. 

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