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Geotechnical Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Atlas is seeking a Principal Geotechnical Engineer to lead and support a wide range of infrastructure and facilities projects across the public and private sectors. This role will be responsible for ...

Atlas is seeking a Principal Geotechnical Engineer to lead and support a wide range of infrastructure and facilities projects across the public and private sectors. This role will be responsible for ...

Atlas is seeking a Principal Geotechnical Engineer to lead and support a wide range of infrastructure and facilities projects across the public and private sectors. This role will be responsible for ...

Atlas is seeking a Principal Geotechnical Engineer to lead and support a wide range of infrastructure and facilities projects across the public and private sectors. This role will be responsible for ...

Overview / Responsibilities Wood is currently searching for a Geotechnical Engineer interested in playing a key role in expanding the capabilities of our geotechnical engineering group which provides ...

We are seeking a Principal Geotechnical Engineer to provide technical leadership, project oversight, client management, and business development support for a diverse portfolio of public and private ...

Staff Geotechnical Engineer

Oakland, CA · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

GFT is seeking a Staff Geotechnical Engineer to join our Dams & Hydraulics team in California! This role follows a hybrid work model, requiring regular attendance in Roseville or Oakland, CA. GFT ...

Staff Geotechnical Engineer

Roseville, CA · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

GFT is seeking a Staff Geotechnical Engineer to join our Dams & Hydraulics team in California! This role follows a hybrid work model, requiring regular attendance in Roseville or Oakland, CA. GFT ...

Staff Geotechnical Engineer

Roseville, CA · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

GFT is seeking a Staff Geotechnical Engineer to join our Dams & Hydraulics team in California! This role follows a hybrid work model, requiring regular attendance in Roseville or Oakland, CA. GFT ...

We combine geoscience, geotechnical engineering and materials expertise to understand complex ground conditions and achieve the best built solutions for our clients and projects. We are hiring a ...

Showing results 21-40

Geotechnical Engineer information

See California salary details

$39.5K

$91.7K

$145.6K

How much do geotechnical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for geotechnical engineer in California is $91,654.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,100.00 and $107,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

How much is the salary of a geotechnical engineer?

The average salary of a geotechnical engineer in the United States typically ranges from $60,000 to $100,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions usually start around $60,000, while experienced engineers with advanced certifications can earn over $100,000 annually.

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.

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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Geotechnical Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Geotechnical Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Geotechnical Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Geotechnical Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Geotechnical Engineer jobs in CA? For Geotechnical Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Geotechnical Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $91,654 per year, or $44.1 per hour.

Principal Geotechnical Engineer

Atlas

Sacramento, CA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Atlas Technical Consultants rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

260th of 446 rated engineering


Job description

About Atlas

Atlas is a trusted leader in environmental and infrastructure consulting services; we provide services that enable communities to flourish and thrive. With a team of 3,500 employees and offices throughout the US, we combine local expertise and a network of relationships to deliver solutions to both public and private clients. Our services help improve the quality of life in the communities where we live and work. We always aim for smart, safe, and sustainable results. At Atlas we understand that our future is everyone’s responsibility, and we create a better experience at every stage of a project.

Job Description

At Atlas, we're providing services that enable communities to flourish and thrive, and if you’re a Principal Geotechnical Engineer ready to provide technical leadership for geotechnical investigations, design, construction support, and client and team coordination across diverse public and private projects, and committed to doing meaningful work, then this is your moment. You’ll carry out geotechnical investigations and analyses, prepare technical recommendations, support construction activities, coordinate with clients and project teams, mentor junior engineers, and contribute to business and professional development efforts. Join a dynamic, value-driven, client- and community-focused environment where your work creates a lasting positive impact for the people and communities we serve. Office is located in Lakewood, CO. Sign on Bonus and Relocation Assistance available.

Core Responsibilities

  • Provide technical guidance on geotechnical engineering aspects of a wide range of public- and private-sector projects, ensuring conformance with local, state, and federal guidelines.

  • Lead geotechnical design, investigation, and analysis for buildings and infrastructure projects, including residential/commercial buildings, bridges, highways, railways, airports, pipelines, and levees/basins.

  • Direct and supervise subsurface explorations, laboratory testing, geotechnical data interpretation, instrumentation monitoring, and associated geotechnical analyses for foundations, earthwork, slope stability, seepage, lateral earth pressures, and earthquake engineering.

  • Supervise and lead geotechnical support during construction of geotechnical elements, including shallow foundations, drilled shafts, pile driving, grading, utility trenching, and other earthwork operations.

  • Liaise with clients, stakeholders, and governmental personnel to ensure comprehensive resolution of geotechnical concerns, while fostering strong long-term client relationships and supporting business development opportunities.

  • Mentor and train junior geotechnical engineers, maintain involvement in professional associations, and contribute to the state-of-practice of geotechnical engineering through community engagement.

  • Oversee and maintain our quality program and accreditations.

You’ll thrive here if you have

  • Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering; master’s degree in Geotechnical Engineering preferred.

  • Minimum 10 years of experience in geotechnical engineering practice with an emphasis on geotechnical design and analysis, geotechnical field investigation, and construction supervision.

  • The successful candidate must be a licensed Professional Engineer in the state of Colorado.

  • Local experience and familiarity with the local engineering practice required

  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills essential for team-based working

  • Extensive geotechnical background including a strong fundamental knowledge of principles of geotechnical engineering, soil and rock mechanics, earthquake engineering, pavement engineering, and groundwater hydrogeology.

  • Experience with geotechnical software including slope stability packages, pile modeling tools, site response software preferred.

  • Familiarity with CDOT standards, guidelines, and deliverables is preferred.

  • Experience in construction oversight for foundation construction and earthwork observation

What you can expect from us

The A-Team Experience is our employee program focused on helping our people thrive professionally, personally and as part of a community. We trust our people to do great work and live fulfilling lives, and we provide resources that care for our people, both at work and in life:

  • Health & Wellness: We offer medical, dental and vision coverage with multiple plan options, including no-cost employee-only medical coverage.

  • Time Off & Family Support: We offer vacation time, paid holidays, sick & safety leave (SSL) and paid parental leave

  • Retirement: We help employees plan for the future with a 401(k) and company match.

  • Insurance: To provide protection and peace of mind, we offer Life, AD&D (Accidental Death & Dismemberment) and Disability insurance.

  • Safety Program: We are committed to safety as part of our ‘quality of life’ core value, and we provide approved PPE at no cost and reimbursement for prescription safety glasses and protective footwear.

  • Learning & Development: We provide clear career paths, learning resources and development programs allowing you to see how you can grow and advance within the company. We offer internal certifications on specific skills and support external credentials through tuition reimbursement.

  • Belonging: We support Employee Communities (ECs), voluntary, employee-led groups that create connections, belonging and shared purposes.

  • Flexibility: May vary by project demands and regional workloads, but we are committed to providing reasonable accommodation to help employees manage their personal and professional responsibilities.

Our people and our culture are central to our work. Our values bring us together, create a sense of belonging and give us purpose. They guide how we make decisions, how we work as a team and how we serve our clients.

  • Life: We enhance the quality of life. We value people and safety above all else.

  • Heart: As our hallmark, we act with compassion, empathy, and respect.

  • Trust: We work together as partners, doing what we say with full accountability.

  • Mastery: Always striving for the highest quality, greatness inspires our work.

About the Job

  • Career Level: Senior
  • Employment Type: Full-time
  • Compensation: $150,000 - $200,000 annual salary
    The expected salary range for the position is displayed in accordance with the state’s law. Final agreed upon compensation is based upon individual qualifications and experience.

EEO Statement

Atlas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants without regard to race (including hairstyles, hair texture, hair type, or hair length commonly or historically associated with race), ethnicity, creed, religion or religious creed, color, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, and related medical conditions or requests for pregnancy disability leave and/or family care leave), gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, citizenship or immigration status, primary language, crime victim status, criminal conviction history, uniformed service member or veteran status, marital status, age, genetic information, disability or protected medical condition, genetics, political affiliation or activities, or any other status protected under applicable federal, state, or local laws.

Notice to Third Party Agencies

Please note that Atlas Technical Consultants does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or employment agencies. In the absence of a signed Recruitment Fee Agreement, Atlas will not consider or agree to payment of any referral compensation or recruiter fee. In the event a recruiter or agency submits a resume or candidate without a previously signed agreement, Atlas explicitly reserves the right to pursue and hire those candidate(s) without any financial obligation to the recruiter or agency. Any unsolicited resumes, including those submitted to hiring managers, are deemed to be the property of Atlas.

Ready to build a career to be proud of? Join the A-Team today!

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