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Geotechnical Engineer Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

CDM Smith is looking for a Geotechnical Engineer to join our Infrastructure Services Team in Raleigh! Under general supervision, creates excavation, dewatering, shallow/deep foundations, dams ...

CDM Smith is looking for a Geotechnical Engineer to join our Infrastructure Services Team in Raleigh!Under general supervision, creates excavation, dewatering, shallow/deep foundations, dams ...

Showing results 21-40

Geotechnical Engineer information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$38.9K

$90.3K

$143.4K

How much do geotechnical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for geotechnical engineer in Raleigh, NC is $90,278.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,000.00 and $106,000.00 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Geotechnical Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC?

The most popular types of Geotechnical Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What are popular job titles related to Geotechnical Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC?

For Geotechnical Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Geotechnical Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Geotechnical Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Geotechnical Engineer jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Geotechnical Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Geotechnical Engineer job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,278 per year, or $43.4 per hour.

Senior Project Manager, Geotechnical Engineer

Haley & Aldrich

Cary, NC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


Haley & Aldrich rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

67th of 449 rated engineering


Job description

We are looking to add new talent to our growing team! We are currently seeking a Senior Project Manager, Geotechnical Engineer to work in a technical support role with highly skilled professionals on diverse project teams in a dynamic environment. This is an excellent opportunity to join a growing group and company and get involved in a variety of projects for a diverse range of clients. This is a full-time position located in one of our offices in Charlotte NC, Cary NC, or Greenville SC.

DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES
In this position, you will:

  • Oversee day-to-day management of multi-disciplinary project teams with a focus on project delivery, quality, financial performance, and health and safety.
  • Lead large, complex, or high-risk projects with multiple integrated services, and ensure those projects are executed to meet project, client, and regulatory objectives.
  • Demonstrate strong technical competence, knowledge of codes and regulations, and professional standards of practice to assigned tasks.
  • Hold primary responsibility for all aspects of the project lifecycle, including cost estimating and proposal preparation, scheduling, subcontracting, resourcing, project planning, execution, document preparation and review, and financial management.
  • Collaborate closely with the project team, supporting field teams, providing oversight, and observing health and safety processes and procedures.
  • Regularly and effectively communicate with clients, partners, subcontractors, regulators, and other stakeholders.
  • Regularly direct, coach, and support staff to ensure high-quality project execution, focusing on developing team skills for professional growth and delivering comprehensive technical reports and deliverables.
  • Plan and manage complex field investigation programs for geotechnical projects.
  • Lead the performance of geotechnical evaluations, design efforts, design and contract package development, construction procurement support, and possess the ability to function as Engineer of Record on geotechnical design projects.
  • Play a significant leadership role on geotechnical construction projects involving construction quality control and field/laboratory testing.
  • Plan all work in accordance with company and client health and safety protocols.
  • Demonstrate the company's foundational safety behaviors.

SKILLS/EXPERIENCE
Minimum Skills and Requirements:

  • Master's degree in Civil or Geotechnical Engineering or related field.
  • 10+ years of geotechnical work experience, including direct project management experience.
  • Professional registration or certification, as applicable.
  • Experience on infrastructure/DOT projects (ports, bridges, etc.) and familiarity with AASHTO/FHWA design requirements.
  • Ability to independently lead project teams to achieve project and client goals and objectives.
  • Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and financial acumen.
  • Proficient computer literacy skills, including the use of the Microsoft Office 365 Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, and SharePoint) and the ability to learn various software needed to support financial management, diverse project needs, and client requirements.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Familiarity with the application of relevant geotechnical analysis software.

Preferred Skills:

  • 4+ years of project management and financial management experience.
  • Familiarity with the application of AutoCAD and/or Civil 3D.
  • OSHA 40-Hour HAZWOPER training and refresher updates desirable.

The salary range for this position in Charlotte NC, Cary NC, and Greenville SC. is 140,000 - 180,000 annually. Actual compensation will be based upon a variety of factors such as education, related work experience, certificates, skills, and current market conditions. Haley & Aldrich reviews salary ranges each quarter to assess competitiveness with the market.


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