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Geotechnical Engineering Entry Level Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Geotechnical Engineering Entry Level information

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$40K

$92.9K

$147.5K

How much do geotechnical engineering entry level jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for geotechnical engineering entry level in the United States is $92,871.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,000.00 and $109,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Geotechnical Engineering Entry Level professional do?

A Geotechnical Engineering Entry Level professional assists in evaluating soil, rock, groundwater, and other earth materials to help design and construct safe foundations for buildings, roads, and other structures. Their work often involves site investigations, collecting soil samples, performing lab tests, and preparing reports under the supervision of senior engineers. They also help analyze data to assess risks related to landslides, earthquakes, or soil stability, ensuring construction projects are both safe and efficient.

What is the difference between Geotechnical Engineering Entry Level vs Civil Engineering Entry Level?

AspectGeotechnical Engineering Entry LevelCivil Engineering Entry Level
CredentialsBachelor's in Civil or Geotechnical Engineering, Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification often preferredBachelor's in Civil Engineering, EIT certification often required
Work EnvironmentFieldwork involving soil testing, site investigations, laboratory analysis, office design workDesign, planning, site inspections, project management in various civil projects
Industry UsageSpecialized in soil, foundation, and subsurface investigations within geotechnical projectsBroader scope including transportation, structural, environmental, and geotechnical projects

While both roles require a civil engineering degree and EIT certification, geotechnical engineering entry-level positions focus more on soil and foundation analysis, often involving fieldwork and specialized testing. Civil engineering entry-level roles encompass a wider range of projects, including infrastructure design and construction management. Understanding these differences helps job seekers target the right roles based on their skills and interests.

What types of projects and daily tasks can I expect as an entry-level geotechnical engineer?

As an entry-level geotechnical engineer, you’ll typically assist with site investigations, soil and rock sampling, and laboratory testing to assess ground conditions. You’ll help prepare reports, perform calculations for foundation design, and support senior engineers during field visits or construction oversight. Collaboration with civil engineers, environmental scientists, and construction teams is common, and you’ll gain hands-on experience solving real-world geotechnical challenges. This role provides a strong foundation for advancing into more specialized or leadership positions in the future.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Geotechnical Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Geotechnical Engineer, you need a bachelor's degree in civil or geotechnical engineering, foundational knowledge of soil mechanics, and proficiency in data analysis. Familiarity with industry-standard software like AutoCAD, gINT, and Microsoft Office, as well as experience with field testing equipment, is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help newcomers excel in this field. These competencies are essential for ensuring accurate site assessments, safe engineering designs, and successful project collaboration.
More about Geotechnical Engineering Entry Level jobs
What states have the most Geotechnical Engineering Entry Level jobs? States with the most job openings for Geotechnical Engineering Entry Level jobs include:
Entry Level Geotechnical Engineer

Entry Level Geotechnical Engineer

Wood Plc

Durham, NC

Other

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Overview / Responsibilities

Wood Environment & Infrastructure Solutions is currently recruiting an Entry-level Geotechnical Engineer for geotechnical engineering work to be based in our Durham, NC office. This individual will be part of our Engineered Construction team that supports the Department of Transportation and Industrial Sector clients locally and abroad. This position will require significant time in the field, away from the office. Field responsibilities may include subsurface investigations such as logging boreholes and observing CPTs and typical in-situ testing techniques, or observation of various geotechnical construction activities such as: general grading, installation of shallow and deep foundations, instrumentation installation and monitoring, soil-retaining structures, and soil-improvement. The candidate should feel comfortable interacting with clients, construction personnel, and sub-contractors as a professional representative of Wood.

Key Responsibilities

  • Perform engineering investigation and design support tasks under the direction of more senior engineering professionals
  • Develop field data in support of geotechnical investigations and design as directed

Skills/Qualifications

Skills / Qualifications

The individual is expected to have:

  • B.S. in Civil Engineering with heavy emphasis on Geotechnical Engineering coursework (M.S. in Civil Engineering/Geotechnical Engineering preferred)
  • North Carolina state driver's license (or immediate ability to receive one)
  • Ability to lift 50 lbs.
  • 0 to 2 years of practical geotechnical engineering experience (internship experience considered)
  • E.I.T/F.E. preferred
  • Strong written/oral communication skills
  • Strong knowledge of Microsoft Office software (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access)
  • Working knowledge of common geotechnical engineering software tools (e.g. SHAKE, Slope/W, L-Pile, A-Pile, SLIDE)
  • Working knowledge of common geotechnical laboratory tests and the ability to interpret test data
Company Overview

Wood is a global leader in engineering and consultancy across energy and the built environment, helping to unlock solutions to some of the world's most critical challenges. We provide consulting, projects and operations solutions in more than 60 countries, employing around 40,000 people. www.woodplc.com

Diversity Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer that recognises the value of a diverse workforce. All suitably qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment on the basis of objective criteria and without regard to the following (which is a non-exhaustive list): race, colour, age, religion, gender, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, or other characteristics in accordance with the relevant governing laws.

Employment Type: OTHER