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Geotechnical Engineer Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

TRC Companies, Inc.

Geotechnical Engineer

Madison, WI · On-site

$70K - $120K/yr

Overview TRC is seeking a highly motivated an experienced Geotechnical Engineer with our Geo-Environmental and Civil Engineering team. The successful candidate will be a highly motivated individual ...

GEI Consultants

Geotechnical Engineer

Middleton, WI · Hybrid

Geotechnical Engineering (Slope Stability, Seepage, Foundations), Structural (Excavations Support, Concrete/Steel Structures, Tunnel Reinforcement), Solid Waste (Landfill Design and Construction ...

Ayres Associates Inc

Geotechnical Engineer

Madison, WI · On-site

Ayres' team of national dam safety experts is seeking a senior geotechnical/geological engineer with a proven track record of managing and successfully executing dam rehabilitation and dam analysis ...

Ayres Associates Inc.

Geotechnical Engineer

Madison, WI · On-site

$100 - $120/hr

The successful candidate will be a registered professional engineer in geotechnical/geological engineering (civil in states not having a separate geotechnical/geological engineering registration) and ...

GEI Consultants

Geotechnical Engineer

Middleton, WI · Hybrid

Geotechnical Engineering (Slope Stability, Seepage, Foundations), Structural (Excavations Support, Concrete/Steel Structures, Tunnel Reinforcement), Solid Waste (Landfill Design and Construction ...

Ayres Associates

Geotechnical Engineer

Madison, WI · On-site

Ayres' team of national dam safety experts is seeking a senior geotechnical/geological engineer with a proven track record of managing and successfully executing dam rehabilitation and dam analysis ...

GEI Consultants

Geotechnical Engineer

Middleton, WI · On-site

Geotechnical Engineering (Slope Stability, Seepage, Foundations), Structural (Excavations Support, Concrete/Steel Structures, Tunnel Reinforcement), Solid Waste (Landfill Design and Construction ...

GEI Consultants

Geotechnical Engineer

Middleton, WI · On-site

Geotechnical Engineering (Slope Stability, Seepage, Foundations), Structural (Excavations Support, Concrete/Steel Structures, Tunnel Reinforcement), Solid Waste (Landfill Design and Construction ...

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All JobsGeotechnical Engineer JobsGeotechnical Engineer Jobs in Madison, WI

Geotechnical Engineer information

See Madison, WI salary details

$40.3K

$93.6K

$148.6K

How much do geotechnical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for geotechnical engineer in Madison, WI is $93,593.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,600.00 and $109,800.00 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.
More about Geotechnical Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Geotechnical Engineer jobs in Madison, WI?

The most popular types of Geotechnical Engineer jobs in Madison, WI are:

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

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The top searched job categories for Geotechnical Engineer jobs in Madison, WI are:

What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Geotechnical Engineer jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI with the most Geotechnical Engineer job openings:

Geotechnical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Geotechnical Engineer job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,593 per year, or $45 per hour.

Project Geotechnical Engineer

Madison, WI • On-site

GESTRA Engineering, Inc.
Civil Engineering Construction • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about GESTRA Engineering, Inc.external

$70 - $90/hr

Other

Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

About the Role

Operating primarily out of Madison office, with occasional travel to support regional projects as needed. You will manage geotechnical engineering projects from scope development through final reporting. You will serve as a project manager and technical lead, ensuring solutions are safe, cost-effective, and compliant with specifications.

Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Occasional field visits or client meetings outside standard hours based on project needs.

Key Responsibilities
  • Perform and review geotechnical engineering calculations, including shallow and deep foundation design, slope stability analysis, settlement estimates, and retaining wall designs.
  • Manage project schedules, budgets, and deliverables for multiple concurrent projects; communicate effectively with clients, contractors, and internal team members.
  • Author, review, and finalize detailed geotechnical engineering reports, providing clear foundations and earthwork recommendations.
  • Plan and oversee subsurface exploration programs, including soil boring layouts and specialized field testing.
  • Assign work to staff engineers and technicians, provide technical guidance, and assist in reviewing their daily work or data sheets.
  • Assist in preparing proposals, cost estimates, and qualification packages for prospective clients and projects.
Requirements
  • Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in geotechnical engineering or related engineering work.
  • Must possess a valid Professional Engineer (PE) license, with the ability to obtain a Wisconsin PE license within 6 months if registered in another state.
  • Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, or a closely related field.
  • Clear and concise English communication skills (written and verbal) for technical reporting and stakeholder coordination.
  • Must possess a valid driver’s license with a clean driving record and pass a pre-employment drug screening.
  • Proficiency in geotechnical engineering software (e.g., GeoStudio, gINT, LPILE) and basic computer skills (Microsoft Word and Excel).
Preferred Certifications & Expertise
  • Master’s degree in Civil or Geotechnical Engineering.
  • Familiarity with WisDOT standards, procedures, and reporting.
  • Experience or certifications related to construction materials testing oversight (e.g., ACI, NICET).
Why Join Us?
  • Professional Development: We invest in your growth by providing assistance for professional certifications, continuing education, and leadership training.
  • Exciting Projects: Work on a variety of diverse and challenging civil and geotechnical projects throughout the region.
  • Career Path: Gain valuable leadership and project management experience to advance toward principal engineering roles.
  • Competitive salary based on experience and PE qualifications.
  • Retirement Plans with 4% Match.
  • Life and Disability insurance.
  • Paid time off.
  • Parental leave.
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