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Geotechnical Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

HDR

Geotechnical Engineer

Glen Allen, VA

The primary duties of the Geotechnical Engineer are development and completion of geotechnical field and laboratory investigations, preparation of proposals and reporting documents, and completion ...

Posted today

HDR

Geotechnical Engineer

Glen Allen, VA · On-site

The primary duties of the Geotechnical Engineer are development and completion of geotechnical field and laboratory investigations, preparation of proposals and reporting documents, and completion ...

New

langan

Geotechnical Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

Job Summary Langan is seeking a Geotechnical Engineer to join its collaborative team in Arlington, VA. This individual will serve a key function in providing the planning and execution of field ...

langan

Geotechnical Engineer

Arlington, VA

Job Summary Langan is seeking a Geotechnical Engineer to join its collaborative team in Arlington, VA. This individual will serve a key function in providing the planning and execution of field ...

OtterBase

Senior Geotechnical Engineer

Norfolk, VA

We are seeking a Senior Geotechnical Engineer to support facilities design and construction projects at Norfolk Naval Station, VA. This role serves as the subject matter expert for all geotechnical ...

Leidos

Geotechnical Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$92K - $166K/yr

Leidos Analysis Solutions Group is seeking a Geotechnical Engineer to support geologic and geotechnical analysis for the reverse engineering of underground and hardened facilities. This role focuses ...

Leidos

Senior Geotechnical Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

Leidos is seeking a Senior Geotechnical Engineer to join our Analysis Solutions Group in Reston, Virginia. This highly specialized role supports critical national security missions through advanced ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsGeotechnical Engineer JobsGeotechnical Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Geotechnical Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$39.7K

$92.1K

$146.2K

How much do geotechnical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for geotechnical engineer in Virginia is $92,074.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,400.00 and $108,100.00 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.
More about Geotechnical Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Geotechnical Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Geotechnical Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Geotechnical Engineer jobs in Virginia? For Geotechnical Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Geotechnical Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Geotechnical Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Geotechnical Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Geotechnical Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Geotechnical Engineer jobs in VA? For Geotechnical Engineer jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Geotechnical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Geotechnical Engineer job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,074 per year, or $44.3 per hour.

Geotechnical Engineer

HDR

Glen Allen, VA

Full-time

Posted 22 hours ago

Posted today

HDR rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 57 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

40th of 446 rated engineering

Job description

At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and novel ideas to work every day. As we foster a culture of inclusion throughout our company and within our communities, we constantly ask ourselves: What is our impact on the world?
Watch Our Story:' https://www.hdrinc.com/our-story' 

We believe transportation is more than movement, it's the foundation of connected, thriving communities. As part of HDR's Transportation Business Group, you'll help shape the systems that move people and goods safely, efficiently, and sustainably. From designing resilient highways and iconic bridges to advancing transit, passenger and freight rail, aviation, federal transportation ports and marine infrastructure, your work will directly support economic vitality, public safety, sustainable and resilient communities and quality of life. We bring together planners, engineers, architects, construction management staff, environmental, strategic communications, economists, management consultants and specialists across disciplines to solve complex mobility challenges with innovation, technical excellence, and a deep understanding of community needs. Whether you're modernizing aging infrastructure or pioneering next-generation transportation solutions, your contributions will help define the future of mobility. This isn't just a job, it's a chance to lead progress, drive meaningful impact, and leave a legacy of smarter, more connected transportation networks. We are all employee-owners at HDR, which is the foundation of our collaborative culture that connects employees around the world.
Each and every role throughout our organization makes a difference in our ability to change the world for the better. Read further to learn how you could help make great things possible not only in your community, but around the world. 
The primary duties of the Geotechnical Engineer are development and completion of geotechnical field and laboratory investigations, preparation of proposals and reporting documents, and completion and coordination of technical analyses for design. A good candidate will be familiar with geotechnical investigations, laboratory testing, and design activities for transportation projects including bridges, fill embankments, cut slopes, subgrades, pavements, retaining walls, and ground improvement. Involved in communication with both internal and external clients. Must be comfortable with design and project team coordination to confirm implementation of geotechnical recommendations into project documents.

A Geotechnical Engineer's traits include organizing, coordinating, and executing field exploration efforts, geotechnical analyses, and development of geotechnical reporting documents. Expected to make decisions and recommendations that impact project direction and activities, with guidance and direction from senior geotechnical engineers. Typically requires four or more years of progressive experience. This individual is required to exhibit excellent communication skills, work collaboratively with team members and clients, and demonstrate ability to manage tasks simultaneously. This individual must possess a Virginia Professional Engineering license (or ability to get it within six months of employment) and have functional experience with geotechnical analyses. Will be responsible for working directly with the senior geotechnical engineering staff and other team members to complete assigned work.
 

Preferred Qualifications 
  • Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (BSCE) from an accredited 4-year engineering program
  • Master's degree in civil engineering with Geotechnical emphasis
  • Proficient with geotechnical software including gINT, Slope/W, APILE, LPILE, Settle3D, as well as the ability to develop and execute designs using spreadsheets
  • Project management experience 
  • 4+ years of geotechnical consulting experience  
  • Experience with developing and executing subsurface exploration and laboratory testing programs for soils and rock
  • Independently complete proposal preparation and develop geotechnical data/engineering reports
  • Independently complete and/or coordinate efforts for subsurface characterization, development of geotechnical design parameters, slope stability and settlement analysis, and design of shallow foundations, deep foundations, retaining walls, and pavements
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office applications.
  • Preference given to candidates currently residing in the Mid-Atlantic Area (VA/MD/DC)

#LI-MJ1

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree
  • Requires professional engineering license recognized by the licensing board for the location of the position offered. Example: Professional Engineer (PE or P.Eng) license.
  • Previous experience with Microsoft Office applications, MicroStation or other software as appropriate
  • Experience with GeoStudio/Ensoft slope stability, settlement, seepage and deep foundation response software, as appropriate
  • Experience with Bentley suite of geotechnical data management and visualization software (gINT/OpenGround/LeapFrog)
  • An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee-owned culture is a must

What We Believe
HDR is our company. Together, we build on each other's life experiences and perspectives to make great things possible every day. This shapes our collaborative culture, encourages organizational trust and connects us closer to the clients and communities we serve.
Our Commitment
As employee owners, we all have a role in creating an inclusive environment where each of us is welcomed, valued, respected and empowered to bring our authentic selves to work every day.
Our eight Employee Network Groups (Asian Pacific, Black, Hispanic/Latino(a), LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Veterans, Women, Young Professionals) help create a sense of belonging and foster a supportive environment where everyone is empowered to engage and contribute. Each group has an executive sponsor and is open to all employees.

What HDR employees say

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Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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About HDR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At HDR, we specialize in engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services. While we are most well-known for adding beauty and structure to communities through high-performance buildings and smart infrastructure, we provide much more than that. We create an unshakable foundation for progress because our multidisciplinary teams also include scientists, economists, builders, analysts and artists.

Industry

Specialized design services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Omaha, NE, US

Year founded

1917

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