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Geotechnical Lab Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

C2Earth, Inc.

Staff Geologist / Engineer

Campbell, CA · On-site

$55K - $90K/yr

Learn project management fundamentals and client communication while building technical expertise ... geotechnical focus. * 0-3 years of professional experience (internships and field/lab work count)

BlackBurn Consulting

Senior Consultant

Auburn, CA · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

We have an extensive geotechnical and materials testing lab in West Sacramento, CA. We focus mostly ... Understand and manage risk * Identify and resolve project issues Essential Abilities:

TERRACON

Materials Project Manager

Gardena, CA · On-site

$92K - $143K/yr

Work in a team environment to manage all aspects of a materials testing and inspection project to ... geotechnical, and materials services. Terracon's growth is due to our talented employee-owners ...

TERRACON

Assistant Scientist

Lodi, CA · On-site

The ideal candidate is self-motivated, professional, and capable of managing their workload and ... Working together in the field, office, or lab, we help guide clients through the steps and ...

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All JobsGeotechnical Lab JobsGeotechnical Lab Manager JobsGeotechnical Lab Manager Jobs in California

Geotechnical Lab Manager information

See California salary details

$34K

$106.2K

$169.7K

How much do geotechnical lab manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for geotechnical lab manager in California is $106,186.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,900.00 and $128,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Geotechnical Lab Manager vs Geotechnical Engineer?

AspectGeotechnical Lab ManagerGeotechnical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's degree in geotechnical engineering, geology, or related field; lab management experienceBachelor's or master's degree in geotechnical engineering or geology; engineering licensure may be preferred
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting, overseeing testing procedures and lab staffField and office settings, designing projects and analyzing soil data
Industry UsageCommonly employed in geotechnical testing labs within construction, mining, or environmental firmsUsed across consulting firms, construction companies, and government agencies for project design

The main difference is that a Geotechnical Lab Manager oversees laboratory operations and staff, focusing on testing and quality control, while a Geotechnical Engineer designs projects and analyzes soil data. Both roles require relevant technical credentials, but their daily responsibilities and work environments differ significantly.

What are some common challenges faced by a geotechnical lab manager, and how can they be addressed?

One common challenge for Geotechnical Lab Managers is ensuring the accuracy and reliability of test results while managing a high volume of projects with tight deadlines. Maintaining rigorous quality control procedures and regularly calibrating equipment are essential to meet industry standards. Additionally, effective communication and coordination with field teams and project managers are crucial to clarify testing requirements and adapt to changing project scopes. Building a strong, well-trained laboratory team helps distribute workload efficiently and fosters a collaborative work environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a geotechnical lab manager?

To thrive as a Geotechnical Lab Manager, you need a solid background in civil engineering or geology, with expertise in soil and material testing, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree and significant laboratory experience. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), geotechnical testing equipment, and certifications such as ASTM or AASHTO standards are typically required. Strong leadership, organizational skills, and effective communication set top performers apart in managing teams and ensuring accurate results. These skills and qualifications are crucial for maintaining laboratory quality, ensuring compliance, and delivering reliable data for engineering projects.

What does a geotechnical lab manager do?

A Geotechnical Lab Manager oversees the daily operations of a laboratory specializing in soil, rock, and construction material testing. They coordinate testing procedures, ensure that equipment is properly maintained and calibrated, and supervise lab staff. Additionally, they are responsible for maintaining quality control standards, interpreting test results, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations. Their work supports civil engineering projects by providing essential data for design and construction decisions.
What are popular job titles related to Geotechnical Lab Manager jobs in California? For Geotechnical Lab Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Geotechnical Lab Manager jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Geotechnical Lab Manager jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Geotechnical Lab Manager jobs? Cities in California with the most Geotechnical Lab Manager job openings:
Geotechnical Lab Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Geotechnical Lab Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $106,186 per year, or $51.1 per hour.

Staff Geologist / Engineer

C2Earth, Inc.

Campbell, CA • On-site

$55K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Staff Geologist / Engineer

Campbell or Capitola, California


Why C2Earth is more than just a job

Imagine starting your career at a firm that combines technical rigor, real-world impact, and deep respect for place. That's C2Earth. We're a privately held, majority Black-owned small business doing thoughtful, problem-solving engineering geology and geotechnical work throughout the greater San Francisco and Monterey Bay areas.


At C2Earth, you'll inherit a legacy: the reputation of Upp Geotechnology (founded in 1983) plus the innovative spark and commitment brought by our founders, Craig Reid and Chris Hundemer. We're more than "consultants" -- we're advisors, protectors, and enablers. Our work touches everything from safety (schools, hospitals, essential buildings) to beauty (coastal bluffs, parks) to infrastructure that supports thriving communities.


When you join us, you join a team with decades of combined experience, with project files going back to the early 1980s. We've seen it all -- small residential additions, complex slope stabilization, liquefaction hazards, coastal erosion, distressed buildings, and critical infrastructure. Whether it's solving for a retaining wall, a foundation, or a bluff subject to sea level rise, we don't just do the work -- we do it with care, precision, and purpose.


The Role: What You'll Do
  • Support geotechnical and geologic investigations under the guidance of senior staff.
  • Assist with field work, including drilling, test pits, soil and rock logging, sampling, and construction observation.
  • Conduct geologic mapping, monitoring, and site reconnaissance.
  • Perform basic data analysis and prepare figures, tables, and graphics for reports.
  • Draft portions of technical reports, proposals, and correspondence for review.
  • Learn project management fundamentals and client communication while building technical expertise.
Why You'll Love Working Here

Launch Your Career: Hands-on experience across diverse projects with direct mentorship from licensed professionals.

Impact & Variety: Exposure to residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects across Northern California.

Professional Growth: Support for licensure, continuing education, and developing areas of specialization.

Small Enough to Matter, Big Enough to Deliver: Your work will be meaningful, recognized, and impactful from day one.

Culture of Ownership & Respect: As a minority-owned firm, we value integrity, diversity, and community in how we operate.


What We're Looking For
  • A bachelor's degree in Geology, Geological Engineering, or Civil Engineering with a geotechnical focus.
  • 0-3 years of professional experience (internships and field/lab work count).
  • Progress toward California professional certification (GIT, EIT, PG, PE, or CEG/GE) is a plus but not required.
  • Strong observational and problem-solving skills with a willingness to learn.
  • Good writing and communication skills, with attention to detail.
  • A collaborative mindset, enthusiasm for field work, and curiosity about geotechnical and geologic consulting.
Perks & Practical Info

Location: Based in Campbell (San Francisco Bay Area) with a second office in Capitola serving Santa Cruz and Monterey Bay.

Compensation: Competitive entry-level salary and benefits package.

Flexibility: A healthy mix of field and office work to build well-rounded skills.

Growth: Clear career path with mentorship, licensure support, and training opportunities.

Project Diversity: Work on coastal, hillside, urban, and infrastructure sites that will challenge and inspire you.


Join Us & Build Something Solid

If you're ready to kick off your career in geology or engineering and want to learn from some of the best in the business, C2Earth is the place for you. You'll gain the skills, experience, and mentorship to grow into a trusted professional while contributing to projects that make communities safer and stronger.