1

Geotechnical Engineer Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA (NOW HIRING)

Job Type Full-time Description As a Staff Geotechnical Engineer, you will be responsible for several field aspects of our geotechnical services, including field exploration and observation of ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Geotechnical Engineer information

See Baton Rouge, LA salary details

$31.4K

$72.9K

$115.7K

How much do geotechnical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for geotechnical engineer in Baton Rouge, LA is $72,861.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,700.00 and $85,500.00 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 are popular job titles related to Geotechnical Engineer jobs in Baton Rouge, LA?

For Geotechnical Engineer jobs in Baton Rouge, LA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Geotechnical Engineer jobs in Baton Rouge, LA look for?

The top searched job categories for Geotechnical Engineer jobs in Baton Rouge, LA are:

What cities near Baton Rouge, LA are hiring for Geotechnical Engineer jobs?

Cities near Baton Rouge, LA with the most Geotechnical Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Geotechnical Engineer job openings in Baton Rouge, LA 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 $89,178 per year, or $42.9 per hour.

Geotechnical Engineer Associate I

Baton Rouge, LA • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Position Summary Thompson Engineering is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Geotechnical Engineer Associate I to join our Geotechnical Engineering team in our New Orleans, LA office. This is an entry-level position designed for recent graduates or early-career engineers who are beginning their professional engineering careers. The selected candidate will work under the supervision of licensed Professional Engineers and will support geotechnical investigations, analysis, reporting, and construction-phase services on a variety of projects across the Southeast. Key ResponsibilitiesAssist with subsurface exploration programs, including coordination of drilling activities and field logging of soil and rock samplesPerform basic geotechnical engineering analyses under supervision, including bearing capacity, settlement, slope stability, and earthwork evaluationsSupport preparation of geotechnical engineering reports, technical memoranda, and recommendationsReview laboratory and field test data and assist with interpretation of resultsParticipate in construction observation and materials testing activities as requiredAssist with preparation of proposals, cost estimates, and project documentationFollow established safety policies and quality control proceduresCommunicate effectively with project managers, field staff, and clientsQualificationsBachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, or a related engineering disciplineEngineer-in-Training (EIT) certification or the ability to obtain EIT within a reasonable timeframe preferredBasic knowledge of geotechnical engineering principles, soil mechanics, and foundation systemsProficiency with Microsoft Office applications; familiarity with geotechnical software is a plusStrong written and verbal communication skillsAbility to work both independently and as part of a teamWillingness to perform field work and occasional travel as requiredPhysical and Work Environment RequirementsAbility to work in outdoor and construction site environmentsAbility to lift up to 50 pounds and perform field-related tasksWillingness to work flexible hours based on project needs