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Geotechnical Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Olsson

Geotechnical Engineer - Remote

Des Moines, IA · On-site +1

As a Remote Geotechnical Engineer, you will perform geotechnical engineering design, project proposal and management duties with integrity and a drive to succeed. You will also process design ...

TERRACON

Geotechnical Staff Engineer

Des Moines, IA

Geotechnical Staff Engineer Multiple Iowa Locations Available Ames Dubuque Cedar Rapids Cedar Falls Bettendorf Des Moines Build a Strong Foundation for Your Engineering Career at Terracon Terracon is ...

TERRACON

Geotechnical Staff Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

Geotechnical Staff Engineer Multiple Iowa Locations Available Ames • Dubuque • Cedar Rapids • Cedar Falls • Bettendorf • Des Moines Build a Strong Foundation for Your Engineering Career at ...

Olsson

Geotechnical Project Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

As a Geotechnical Engineer, you will perform geotechnical engineering design, project proposal and management duties with integrity and a drive to succeed. You will also process design calculations ...

Olsson

Geotechnical Project Engineer

Des Moines, IA

As a Geotechnical Engineer, you will perform geotechnical engineering design, project proposal and management duties with integrity and a drive to succeed. You will also process design calculations ...

Braun Intertec

Senior Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$96K - $144K/yr

Braun Intertec is seeking a Senior Geotechnical Engineer to join our Cedar Rapids office. This position manages moderate to highly complex geotechnical and construction materials testing projects by ...

W&M Environmental Group

Senior Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA

$96K - $144K/yr

Braun Intertec is seeking a Senior Geotechnical Engineer to join our Cedar Rapids office. This position manages moderate to highly complex geotechnical and construction materials testing projects by ...

Braun Intertec

Project Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$80K - $119K/yr

This position manages moderate to highly complex geotechnical, special inspection, and construction ... Perform engineering analysis using company and industry methodologies and standards * Mentor junior ...

W&M Environmental Group

Project Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA

$80K - $119K/yr

This position manages moderate to highly complex geotechnical, special inspection, and construction ... Perform engineering analysis using company and industry methodologies and standards * Mentor junior ...

Braun Intertec

Senior Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$102K - $140K/yr

Braun Intertec is proud to be a 100% employee-owned environmental consulting, geotechnical engineering, and testing firm of 1,000 employees with offices located in ten states. As a part of our ...

W&M Environmental Group

Senior Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$102K - $140K/yr

Braun Intertec is proud to be a 100% employee-owned environmental consulting, geotechnical engineering, and testing firm of 1,000 employees with offices located in ten states. As a part of our ...

W&M Environmental Group

Project Engineer

Des Moines, IA

$80K - $119K/yr

This position manages moderate to highly complex geotechnical, special inspection, and construction ... Perform engineering analysis using company and industry methodologies and standards * Mentor junior ...

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All JobsGeotechnical Engineer JobsGeotechnical Engineer Jobs in Iowa

Geotechnical Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$37.6K

$87.2K

$138.5K

How much do geotechnical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for geotechnical engineer in Iowa is $87,230.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,700.00 and $102,400.00 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.

Is geotechnical engineering in high-demand?

Geotechnical engineering is in high demand due to ongoing infrastructure development, construction projects, and the need for foundation and soil stability assessments. The field offers strong job growth prospects, especially for those with advanced skills and professional certifications such as the Professional Engineer (PE) license.

What work does a geotechnical engineer do?

A geotechnical engineer assesses soil, rock, and groundwater conditions to determine their impact on construction projects. They perform site investigations, analyze geotechnical data, and design foundations, retaining walls, and earthworks to ensure stability and safety. The role often requires knowledge of geotechnical software and adherence to engineering standards.

How much is the salary of a geotechnical engineer?

The average salary of a geotechnical engineer in the United States ranges from $60,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions typically start around $55,000, while experienced engineers with advanced certifications can earn over $110,000. Salary may also vary based on the complexity of projects and the employer.

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 engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and often leadership roles or executive positions.

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, and why are they important?

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 Geotechnical Engineers?

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.
More about Geotechnical Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Geotechnical Engineer jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Geotechnical Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
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What job categories do people searching Geotechnical Engineer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Geotechnical Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Geotechnical Engineer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Geotechnical Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Geotechnical Engineer jobs in IA? For Geotechnical Engineer jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Geotechnical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Geotechnical Engineer job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,230 per year, or $41.9 per hour.
Geotechnical Engineer - Remote

Geotechnical Engineer - Remote

Olsson

Des Moines, IA • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Company Description

We are Olsson. We engineer and design solutions that improve the world around us. As a company, we promise to always be responsive, transparent, and focused on results – for our people, our clients, and our company.

We're a people-centric firm, so it's no surprise our greatest asset is our people. The impact this creates is an environment that encourages our people to grow and be creative with their talents. This approach builds a culture that is uniquely Olsson. It allows us to grow our people as we grow our business. This, in turn, creates a lasting impact on the world around us.

Job Description

As a Remote Geotechnical Engineer, you will perform geotechnical engineering design, project proposal and management duties with integrity and a drive to succeed. You will also process design calculations, generate technical report documents, develop project scopes and schedules, and occasionally travel to job sites for observation. You will be required to ensure high client service by providing constructible designs, meeting deadlines, and creating clear communications with our clients.

Qualifications

You are passionate about:

  • Working collaboratively with others.
  • Having ownership in the work you do.
  • Using your talents to positively affect communities.

You bring to the team:

  • Strong communication skills
  • Ability to contribute and work well on a team
  • Bachelor's degree in civil/geotechnical engineering required
  • Must be a registered professional engineer
  • 4+ years of related Geotechnical analysis and design experience
  • The ability to work in a constant state of alertness and safe manner

#LI-DD1

Additional Information

Olsson specializes in engineering and design, client advisory services, planning, field services, and environmental. Improving the world has been our mindset from the very beginning, back when Olsson first opened for business in 1956. And it will be our mindset for years to come.

As an Olsson employee, you will:

  • Receive a competitive 401(k) match
  • Be empowered to build your career with tailored development paths
  • Have the possibility for flexible work arrangements
  • Engage in work that has a positive impact on communities
  • Participate in a wellness program promoting balanced lifestyles

In addition, full-time employees will receive our traditional benefits package (health care, vision, dental, paid time off, etc.) and the opportunity to participate in a bonus system that rewards performance.

Olsson is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We encourage qualified minority, female, veteran, and disabled candidates to apply and be considered for open positions. We do not discriminate against any applicant for employment or any employee because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender, disability, age, military status, or other protected status.

Olsson understands the importance of privacy and is committed to protecting job applicants' personal information. Pursuant to the California Consumer Privacy Act, as amended by the California Privacy Rights Act (collectively, the "CCPA"), this notice explains Olsson's practices regarding the collection, use, and disclosure of personal information for job applicants residing in California. Please read this Notice carefully to understand our privacy practices.

For more information about the types of information we collect and how we use it in connection with your general access and use of our website, please review our general California Privacy Notice here.