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Geotechnical Engineering Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

CivicMinds, Inc.

Sr. Geotechnical Engineer

Portland, OR · On-site

Join a dynamic full-service environmental firm expanding its Geotechnical Engineering Team. We're seeking a skilled and motivated professional to lead geotechnical projects, from field investigations ...

GRI

Geotechnical Engineer, Project

Portland, OR · On-site

$90K - $112K/yr

Geotechnical engineering for major civil works including earthquake engineering, deep and shallow foundation support, retaining structures, earth embankments, levees / dams, waterfront / marine ...

GRI

Geotechnical Engineer, Project

Portland, OR · On-site

$90K - $112K/yr

Geotechnical engineering for major civil works including earthquake engineering, deep and shallow foundation support, retaining structures, earth embankments, levees / dams, waterfront / marine ...

Evren Northwest Inc

Be Seen First

Senior-Level Geotechnical Engineer (15+ years experience required)

Portland, OR · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

A successful candidate will be experienced in various aspects of geotechnical engineering projects, including the planning and implementation of subsurface field investigations, planning laboratory ...

Wje

Geotechnical Engineer | 20+ Years

Portland, OR

Technical leadership , including applying sound engineering judgment and a deep understanding of governing codes, design guidelines, and industry practices; collaborating with interdisciplinary ...

GEI Consultants

Project Geotechnical Engineer

Portland, OR · Hybrid

$90K - $150K/yr

Project manager and technical lead for geotechnical engineering projects and tasks including evaluation, design and remediation of dams, levees and hydropower facilities; geotechnical instrumentation ...

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All JobsGeotechnical Engineering JobsGeotechnical Engineering Jobs in Oregon

Geotechnical Engineering information

See Oregon salary details

$42.3K

$98.2K

$155.9K

How much do geotechnical engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for geotechnical engineering in Oregon is $98,191.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,100.00 and $115,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do you do as a geotechnical engineer?

A geotechnical engineer assesses soil, rock, and foundation conditions to determine their stability and suitability for construction projects. They perform site investigations, analyze geotechnical data, and design foundations, retaining walls, and earthworks, often using specialized tools and software. Their work ensures the safety and stability of structures built on or in the ground.

What is the difference between Geotechnical Engineering vs Civil Engineering?

AspectGeotechnical EngineeringCivil Engineering
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's or master's in geotechnical engineering or civil engineering, with licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE)Requires a bachelor's or master's in civil engineering, often with PE licensure
Work EnvironmentField investigations, soil testing sites, laboratories, construction sitesDesign offices, construction sites, urban planning environments
Industry UsageSpecializes in soil, foundation, and earth-related projectsBroader scope including transportation, water resources, structural design

Geotechnical Engineering focuses on soil and foundation analysis, while Civil Engineering covers a wide range of infrastructure projects. Both roles often overlap but differ in specialization and project scope.

How much is the salary of a geotechnical engineer?

The average salary of a geotechnical engineer in the United States ranges from $60,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions typically start around $55,000, while experienced engineers with advanced certifications can earn over $120,000. Salary may also vary based on the complexity of projects and the employer's industry.

What is geotechnical engineering?

Geotechnical engineering is a branch of civil engineering that focuses on the behavior of earth materials like soil and rock. Geotechnical engineers investigate subsurface conditions to design foundations, retaining walls, tunnels, and other structures that interact with the ground. They assess risks related to soil stability, landslides, earthquakes, and other ground-related hazards to ensure safe and durable construction. Their work is essential in construction, mining, environmental projects, and infrastructure development.

What are some common challenges faced by geotechnical engineers during site investigations?

Geotechnical engineers often encounter challenges such as unexpected soil conditions, limited site accessibility, and variable groundwater levels during site investigations. These factors can impact the accuracy of soil sampling and testing, requiring engineers to adapt their investigation methods and employ specialized equipment. Collaboration with project managers, civil engineers, and environmental specialists is essential to address these challenges and ensure that collected data is reliable for design and construction planning.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

In geotechnical engineering, senior-level professionals with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and specialized skills can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially in consulting firms or high-demand regions. Achieving this salary typically requires a combination of technical expertise, project management, and often a master's or doctoral degree in engineering or related fields.

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

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), site investigation techniques, and certification as a Professional Engineer (PE) are highly beneficial. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and clear communication skills help in interpreting data and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are crucial for ensuring the safety, stability, and cost-effectiveness of construction projects involving soil and foundation interactions.

Can you make $500,000 as a civil engineer?

Geotechnical engineers, a specialized field within civil engineering, can potentially earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership roles. High salaries are often associated with senior positions, consulting work, or working in high-cost-of-living areas, but such earnings are not typical for entry-level or mid-career engineers.
What are popular job titles related to Geotechnical Engineering jobs in Oregon? For Geotechnical Engineering jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Geotechnical Engineering jobs in Oregon look for? The top searched job categories for Geotechnical Engineering jobs in Oregon are:
Geotechnical Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Geotechnical Engineering job openings in Oregon as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 87% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,191 per year, or $47.2 per hour.
Geotechnical Engineer (PE)

Geotechnical Engineer (PE)

AKS Engineering & Forestry, LLC

Medford, OR

Other

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

We are looking for an experienced, licensed Professional Engineer with geotechnical experience to join our team. This position will be a mix of office and field work. Field work will require the ability to stand for long periods of time, walk on uneven ground, work outdoors under varying temperatures and weather conditions, and regularly lift and/or move 10 - 50 lbs. Some travel may be required - typically one-day trips. A good driving record is necessary to be insurable under our company vehicle policy.

What You'll Do
  • Generating geotechnical engineering study proposals and reports covering an interesting and diverse landscape for a wide range of commercial and private structures, roads, and bridges
  • Responsible for collection, documentation, analysis and reporting of field data
  • Coordinate field explorations and laboratory testing
  • Develop design and construction recommendations
  • Prepare and review geotechnical engineering reports, technical memoranda, design recommendations, and construction documents.
  • Analyze subsurface data including borings, test pits, laboratory testing, and field observations.
  • Develop recommendations for foundations, retaining structures, pavements, earthwork, slope stability, and site grading.
  • Perform site visits and field observations to evaluate soil and groundwater conditions.
  • Collaborate with geologists and field staff to ensure accurate data collection and interpretation.
  • Work closely with civil engineering teams across all offices to integrate geotechnical recommendations into site design and permitting.
Who You Are
  • Bachelor's degree in civil engineering, Master's degree in geotechnical engineering preferred.
  • PE license in civil engineering, registration as a Professional Engineer especially qualified in geotechnical engineering (PE, GE) preferre
  • Registration in Oregon or ability to obtain within 3 months.
  • Minimum of five years progressive experience in geotechnical engineering.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Solid project management skills.
  • Ability to generate geotechnical proposals and reports.
  • Strong attention to detail to ensure compliance with relevant local/state/federal regulations and client specific requirements.
  • You have a "Do what needs to be done" mindset, taking ownership beyond assigned tasks and stepping in wherever needed to keep projects, teams, and customers supported and running smoothly.
Nice To Have
  • Experience with land development projects in the Pacific Northwest.
  • Familiarity with local permitting requirements and agency review processes.
  • Experience with geotechnical software for analysis and modeling.
  • Interest in mentoring junior staff and contributing to technical development.

Apply