ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Geotechnical Engineer Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

GRI

Geotechnical Engineer, Project

Portland, OR · On-site

$90K - $112K/yr

GRI is seeking a Project level Geotechnical Engineer to join our growing team. As a Project Engineer at GRI, you will gain experience working on a variety of interesting assignments under the ...

GRI

Geotechnical Engineer, Project

Portland, OR · On-site

$90K - $112K/yr

GRI is seeking a Project level Geotechnical Engineer to join our growing team. As a Project Engineer at GRI, you will gain experience working on a variety of interesting assignments under the ...

GRI

Geotechnical Engineer, Staff

Portland, OR · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

GRI is seeking a Staff Geotechnical Engineer to join our growing team. As a Staff Engineer at GRI, you will gain experience working on a variety of interesting assignments under the mentorship of ...

GEI Consultants

Project Geotechnical Engineer

Portland, OR · Hybrid

$90K - $150K/yr

We are seeking a mid-level geotechnical engineer to join our vibrant Geotechnical Engineering Group in the West Region. The chosen candidate will be an active partner in supporting our profitable and ...

GEI Consultants

Project Geotechnical Engineer

Portland, OR · On-site

$90K - $150K/yr

We are seeking a mid-level geotechnical engineer to join our vibrant Geotechnical Engineering Group in the West Region. The chosen candidate will be an active partner in supporting our profitable and ...

GRI

Geotechnical Engineer, Staff

Portland, OR · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

GRI is seeking a Staff Geotechnical Engineer to join our growing team. As a Staff Engineer at GRI, you will gain experience working on a variety of interesting assignments under the mentorship of ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsGeotechnical Engineer JobsGeotechnical Engineer Jobs in Portland, OR

Geotechnical Engineer information

See Portland, OR salary details

$42.4K

$98.5K

$156.4K

How much do geotechnical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for geotechnical engineer in Portland, OR is $98,490.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,300.00 and $115,600.00 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 popular job titles related to Geotechnical Engineer jobs in Portland, OR?

For Geotechnical Engineer jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Geotechnical Engineer jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Geotechnical Engineer jobs in Portland, OR are:

Geotechnical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Geotechnical Engineer job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,490 per year, or $47.4 per hour.

Geotechnical Engineer

Condon-Johnson & Associates

Portland, OR • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEER - ENTRY LEVEL - POSITION AVAILABLE
Condon-Johnson & Associates (CJA) is a West Coast specialty design-build contractor with over 40 years of experience in full spectrum of geotechnical construction including: drilled shafts, deep foundations, ground improvements, grouting, micro-piles, and anchored earth supports.
CJA is actively recruiting a Full Time Entry Level Geotechnical Engineer for our Portland, OR office.
In this position, you will be working within our engineering team to design and build various types of ground improvement, deep foundation and shoring systems. You will work on challenging static and seismic designs, and have the opportunity to go to the field and be involved in constructing your ideas.
Requirements:
  • MSc or PhD Degree in Geotechnical Engineering
  • Knowledge of geotechnical engineering with an emphasis on soil static and seismic behaviors, shallow and deep foundations, shoring, and slope stability.
  • Strong educational background (GPA of 3.5 or higher) with excellent course-work record on theoretical soil mechanics, geotechnical earthquake engineering, and foundations.
  • Excellent Writing and Speaking Skills
  • Goal and Schedule Driven.
  • Travel in the Western and Central United States.
Employment Benefits:
  • 401K Program & Profit Sharing
  • Comprehensive Health Benefits
  • Continuing Education & Professional Development
Pay Range- $75k- $100k.
 

Powered by JazzHR

ekoQXwFfhp