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Geotechnical Engineer Jobs in Alaska (NOW HIRING)

Takes part in providing local geotechnical engineering assistance for the design, development, and construction of infrastructure projects and systems in the public and private sector. Tasks may ...

Takes part in providing local geotechnical engineering assistance for the design, development, and construction of infrastructure projects and systems in the public and private sector. Tasks may ...

Takes part in providing local geotechnical engineering assistance for the design, development, and construction of infrastructure projects and systems in the public and private sector. Tasks may ...

Showing results 21-40

Geotechnical Engineer information

See Alaska salary details

$43.1K

$100K

$158.8K

How much do geotechnical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for geotechnical engineer in Alaska is $100,016.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,500.00 and $117,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a geotechnical engineer?

Geotechnical Engineers are professionals who analyze soil, rock, groundwater, and other earth materials to assess their suitability for construction projects. They design foundations, retaining structures, and evaluate risks related to earthquakes, landslides, and soil erosion. Their work is crucial in ensuring the safety and stability of buildings, bridges, roads, and other infrastructure. Geotechnical Engineers often work closely with civil engineers, architects, and construction teams to provide recommendations for site preparation and design.

What do geotechnical engineers do?

A geotechnical engineer is part engineer and part scientist. In this career, you plan a variety of structures for mining operations and civil engineering projects. This is all done while considering the natural geology of the area, including the soil, rock, and water tables. Your duties revolve around analyzing data on the location and conducting research of your own. This research may involve collecting rock or soil samples from a job site to determine a site’s ground stability or field testing for future erosion and settlement. You also use computer software to confirm your fieldwork further and assist in creating suitable foundations for the conditions of each specific site. You may be responsible for drafting proposals and meeting with clients to report on your findings and progress as well.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a geotechnical engineer?

To thrive as a Geotechnical Engineer, you need a solid background in civil engineering, soil mechanics, and geology, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in civil or geotechnical engineering. Familiarity with geotechnical software (such as PLAXIS or GeoStudio), laboratory testing equipment, and relevant certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) licensure is highly valued. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and convey technical findings clearly. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring the safety, stability, and success of construction projects and infrastructure development.

What are some common challenges faced by geotechnical engineers in project execution?

Geotechnical engineers often encounter challenges such as unexpected soil conditions, weather-related delays, and coordination with multidisciplinary teams. Addressing unforeseen subsurface issues requires adaptability and strong problem-solving skills, as well as effective communication with project managers and contractors. Being proactive in site investigation and maintaining close collaboration with civil and structural engineers helps ensure the successful execution of projects.

What is the difference between Geotechnical Engineer vs Civil Engineer?

AspectGeotechnical EngineerCivil Engineer
CredentialsDegree in Geotechnical Engineering or Civil Engineering, Professional Engineer (PE) license often requiredDegree in Civil Engineering, PE license common
Work EnvironmentSite investigations, soil testing, foundation designDesign of infrastructure, transportation, water systems
Industry UsageSpecializes in soil, rock, foundation analysisBroader scope including structures, transportation, water resources

While both roles require a background in civil engineering and often similar credentials, Geotechnical Engineers focus specifically on soil and foundation analysis, working closely with construction sites and geotechnical investigations. Civil Engineers have a broader scope, designing various infrastructure projects. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

Do geotechnical engineers make a lot of money?

Geotechnical engineers typically earn competitive salaries that vary by experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, but experienced professionals with specialized skills and certifications can earn high salaries, often comparable to other engineering disciplines.

What job categories do people searching Geotechnical Engineer jobs in Alaska look for?

The top searched job categories for Geotechnical Engineer jobs in Alaska are:

What are popular job titles related to Geotechnical Engineer jobs in AK?

For Geotechnical Engineer jobs in AK, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Geotechnical Engineer job openings in Alaska as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,016 per year, or $48.1 per hour.

Geotechnical Engineer (Entry-Level)

Anchorage, AK • On-site

Shannon & Wilson, Inc.
Civil Engineering Construction • 201 - 500 employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
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 Employer Shannon & 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.