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Geotechnical Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tetra Tech

Principal Geotechnical Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

A true opportunity to be part of dam design and construction. Position Summary: We are seeking a Principal Geotechnical Engineer with expertise in dams and water-resources infrastructure to lead our ...

Cochran

Geotechnical Engineer

Fenton, MO · On-site

Cochran is looking to hire an experienced Geotechnical Engineer to join our team. This candidate ... Design and analysis of retaining walls, reinforced slopes, soil parameters for adequate foundation ...

WSP

Lead Geotechnical Engineer (Mine Waste)

Reno, NV · On-site

This Opportunity WSP is seeking a Lead Civil/Geotechnical Engineer to join our US Mine Waste team ... Leading the civil design of mine waste containment (tailings and waste rock) and heap leach ...

Atlas

Principal Geotechnical Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

Lead geotechnical design, investigation, and analysis for buildings and infrastructure projects ... Bachelor's degree in civil engineering; master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering preferred.

Cochran

Geotechnical Engineer

Wentzville, MO

Cochran is looking to hire an experienced Geotechnical Engineer to join our team. This candidate ... Design and analysis of retaining walls, reinforced slopes, soil parameters for adequate foundation ...

WSP

Lead Geotechnical Engineer (Mine Waste)

Reno, NV · On-site

This Opportunity WSP is seeking a Lead Civil/Geotechnical Engineer to join our US Mine Waste team ... Leading the civil design of mine waste containment (tailings and waste rock) and heap leach ...

Atlas

Principal Geotechnical Engineer

Lakewood, CO · On-site

Lead geotechnical design, investigation, and analysis for buildings and infrastructure projects ... Bachelor's degree in civil engineering; master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering preferred.

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All JobsGeotechnical Design Engineer Jobs

Geotechnical Design Engineer information

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$40K

$92.9K

$147.5K

How much do geotechnical design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for geotechnical design engineer in the United States is $92,871.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,000.00 and $109,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Geotechnical Design Engineer, you need a solid background in civil or geotechnical engineering, typically with a relevant degree and professional engineering licensure (such as PE or EIT). Familiarity with geotechnical analysis software (e.g., PLAXIS, GeoStudio), soil testing methods, and design codes is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help set top performers apart in this role. These competencies ensure safe and efficient design solutions for infrastructure projects, minimizing risks and ensuring regulatory compliance.

What are some common challenges faced by Geotechnical Design Engineers in project execution?

Geotechnical Design Engineers often face challenges such as accommodating unexpected soil conditions, coordinating with multidisciplinary teams, and ensuring that designs meet both safety standards and project budgets. Adapting to changing site data may require redesigns or additional analysis, making flexibility and problem-solving crucial. Effective communication with civil engineers, contractors, and project managers is essential to resolve issues quickly and keep projects on track, especially during site investigations and construction phases.

What is the difference between Geotechnical Design Engineer vs Civil Engineer?

AspectGeotechnical Design EngineerCivil Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in geotechnical engineering or civil engineering, often with specialization or certification in geotechnical fieldsRequires a degree in civil engineering; specialization or licensure may vary by project
Work EnvironmentFocuses on soil, rock, and foundation analysis, often working on foundation design, slope stability, and earthworksBroader scope including transportation, structural, environmental, and water resources projects
Industry UsagePrimarily employed in geotechnical consulting, construction, and infrastructure projects requiring soil and foundation expertiseEmployed across various sectors including construction, transportation, and urban development

While both roles require a strong foundation in civil engineering principles, Geotechnical Design Engineers specialize in soil and foundation analysis, whereas Civil Engineers have a broader scope covering multiple infrastructure disciplines.

What is a Geotechnical Design Engineer?

A Geotechnical Design Engineer is a professional who analyzes soil, rock, and groundwater conditions to design foundations, retaining structures, tunnels, and other earth-related infrastructure. They use their expertise to ensure that structures are safe, stable, and built on suitable ground. Their work often involves site investigations, laboratory testing, and applying engineering principles to solve problems related to earth materials. Geotechnical Design Engineers play a critical role in construction projects by minimizing risks associated with ground instability and environmental impact.
More about Geotechnical Design Engineer jobs
Who are the top companies hiring for Geotechnical Design Engineer jobs? The top employers for Geotechnical Design Engineer jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Geotechnical Design Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Geotechnical Design Engineer jobs are:
Geotechnical Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Geotechnical Design Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 20% Temporary. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,871 per year, or $44.6 per hour.
Assistant Geotechnical Engineer (Kansas City)

Assistant Geotechnical Engineer (Kansas City)

Burns & McDonnell

Kansas City, MO

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Burns & McDonnell rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 78 rated construction

Job description

The Assistant Geotechnical Engineer will work under the supervision of a licensed professional engineer to assist project teams to create world class designs for new projects, alterations and redevelopments on a variety of projects including power, process, corporate, pipeline, airports, institutional, industrial, manufacturing, government and military facilities. The Assistant Geotechnical Engineer will work with the project team throughout the design and construction process, adapting geotechnical plans according to budget constraints, design factors or client needs. Field assignment time will be dependent upon project requirements.

  • Assists with field reconnaissance and geological research to evaluate site-specific geologic and hydrogeologic conditions and risks. Assists with development of work scopes and subcontracts for subsurface investigations in support of geotechnical design and evaluation efforts.
  • Assists with performance of research and compiles project related data as required by the project team. Assists with compiling geotechnical data, boring logs and subsurface profiles.
  • Assists with field observation of site investigation activities.
  • Assists in the geotechnical design of projects from the conceptual phase through design completion. Assists in geotechnical hazard assessments, design of shallow and deep foundations, settlement analysis, slope stability analyses, and earthwork.
  • Assists in the preparation and review of engineering design calculations, reports, specifications and construction documents, and other technical documents as needed.
  • Applies basic knowledge of commonly used geotechnical engineering/design concepts, principles, practices, codes, and procedures within the geotechnical engineering services industry.
  • Assists with client presentations and contract administration.

  • Performs geotechnical-related construction observation during the construction phase of projects.

  • Performs other duties as assigned.
  • Complies with all policies and standards.
  • Bachelor Degree of Science Degree in Civil Engineering or related field from an ABET accredited program required. 
  • Master Degree of Science Degree in Geotechnical Engineering or Civil Engineering (with Geotechnical Emphasis) from an ABET accredited program strongly preferred. 
  • Prior internship and/or related consulting experience preferred. 
  • Basic knowledge in standard geotechnical engineering techniques, principles and procedures.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work methodically and analytically in a quantitative problem-solving environment and demonstrated critical thinking skills.
  • Proficient computer skills (e.g. Microsoft Office Suite).
  • Basic geotechnical software skills preferred, including Ensoft LPILE, slope stability (GeoStudio or UTEXAS4), liquefaction analysis software, excavation support and wall design software.
  • Strong attention to detail, facilitation, team building, collaboration, organization and problem-solving skills. Demonstrated leadership skills.
  • Engineers in Training-EIT Certification preferred. 
  • Minimum of a 3.0 GPA strongly preferred.
  • Involvement on campus or in the community preferred.
  • Candidates must be legally authorized to work permanently (i.e., without time limitations, without restrictions or without need for work sponsorship) in the country where this position is located.

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About Burns & McDonnell

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Burns & McDonnell assists clients of all sizes and industries by providing extensive physical services ranging from assessments, integrated security solutions, and large security architecture designs. Services we typically provide include security and safety system design, threat, risk, and vulnerability assessments, security surveys, security master planning, compliance to federal security programs, independent validation and verification of integrated security system operations, management of installation and maintenance, and staff augmentation to develop and implement facility management and protection processes.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Kansas City, MO, US

Year founded

1898

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