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Geotechnical Lab Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Wood Plc

Senior Geotechnical Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Overview / Responsibilities From the office, on site, or in the lab, our geotechnical engineers and materials specialists provide life cycle solutions in the most complex ground conditions across ...

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All JobsGeotechnical Lab JobsGeotechnical Lab Jobs in California

Geotechnical Lab information

See California salary details

$34K

$106.2K

$169.7K

How much do geotechnical lab jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for geotechnical lab 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 a geotechnical lab?

A geotechnical lab is a specialized facility where soil, rock, and other earth materials are tested to determine their physical and mechanical properties. These labs play a crucial role in civil engineering projects by analyzing samples to assess stability, strength, permeability, and other characteristics important for construction and foundation design. Geotechnical labs use various standardized procedures and equipment to ensure accurate and reliable results that inform safe and effective engineering decisions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a geotechnical lab technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Geotechnical Lab Technician, you need a strong understanding of soil mechanics, laboratory testing methods, and typically an associate degree or relevant certification in civil engineering or geology. Familiarity with specialized lab equipment (such as triaxial and consolidation apparatus), data analysis software, and adherence to ASTM testing standards is commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and strong organizational abilities help ensure accuracy and reliability in test results. These skills are crucial for delivering precise data that supports safe and effective engineering and construction projects.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in a geotechnical laboratory, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in a geotechnical laboratory often encounter challenges such as handling complex soil and rock samples, maintaining precise testing procedures, and ensuring data accuracy under tight deadlines. These challenges can be addressed by following strict laboratory protocols, regularly calibrating equipment, and collaborating closely with engineers and field teams to clarify project requirements. Continuous training and open communication within the lab team also help in troubleshooting unexpected issues and maintaining high-quality results.

What is the difference between Geotechnical Lab vs Geotechnical Engineer?

AspectGeotechnical LabGeotechnical Engineer
CredentialsLaboratory certifications, technical trainingEngineering degree, PE license often required
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting, testing soil and rock samplesField and office, designing and analyzing geotechnical projects
Industry UsageSupports geotechnical projects through testingDesigns and manages geotechnical investigations

While both roles are essential in geotechnical engineering, the Geotechnical Lab focuses on testing soil and rock samples in a lab environment, supporting project analysis. The Geotechnical Engineer designs and oversees these investigations, applying engineering principles to ensure safe and effective construction projects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Geotechnical Lab jobs in California? The most popular types of Geotechnical Lab jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Geotechnical Lab jobs in California? For Geotechnical Lab jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Geotechnical Lab jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Geotechnical Lab jobs in California are:
Geotechnical Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Geotechnical Lab 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.

Geotechnical Engineer (Entry-Level)

Shannon & Wilson, Inc.

Burbank, CA • On-site

$70K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Shannon & Wilson is an employee-owned consulting firm headquartered in Seattle, Washington. Committed to technical excellence and high-quality service, we provide integrated geotechnical engineering, engineering geology, environmental and natural resource services for clients. Since 1954, we have delivered comprehensive engineering and environmental solutions for the most challenging infrastructure planning, design, permitting and construction conditions.
We are dedicated to improving our communities, preserving the environment and utilizing the most innovative science practices in all our work.
Responsibilities:
  • Perform geotechnical engineering and geological analyses and calculations.
  • Prepare and write engineering and other reports.
  • Perform field explorations, collection of samples, geologic reconnaissance, and mapping.
  • Perform with construction observation on job sites and prepare summary logs and other documentation.
  • Perform geotechnical lab testing and communicate results.
  • Interact and communicate with clients, vendors, and staff at all levels.
  • Support marketing activities, including preparation of cost proposals.
  • Follow Shannon & Wilson's Quality Assurance policy.
  • Follow and promote Shannon and Wilson's Health and Safety and Loss Prevention policies.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by your supervisor.

Requirements
  • BS in Civil Engineering; and MS or PhD Degree in Geotechnical Engineering strongly preferred.
  • 0 - 6 years of experience in Geotechnical Engineering.
  • Have obtained or in process of receiving a Engineer-in-Training Certificate
  • On track to obtain Professional Engineering (PE) License.
  • Work experience (and/or coursework) in one or more of the following areas: soil mechanics; rock mechanics; rock and soil slope stability; shallow and deep foundations; tunneling; microtunneling; seismic design; earthquake engineering; and retaining structures.
  • Some knowledge or experience of field/construction observation in one or more of the following areas: logging geotechnical explorations, observation of pile driving operations, observations of earthwork activities, installation and recording of geotechnical instrumentation, field reconnaissance, and/or underground work.
  • Excellent writing, organizational, and communication skills.
  • Personable, flexible, and professional demeanor.
  • The ability to work independently with the appropriate level of OR minimal supervision.
  • The willingness and ability to travel to support the needs of other Shannon & Wilson offices.
  • A valid driver license and insurable driving record.
  • Basic computer skills: MS Word, Excel (required); MS Access (desirable).
  • Critical thinking and analysis.
  • Frequent sitting, standing, walking, bending, lifting, and carrying 30+ pounds.
  • Working in all weather conditions, on uneven terrain.
  • The ability to travel (drive or fly) to field sites per project needs and job sites locally and out of state.

Level Placement
Typically, depending on an applicant's education, experience, other qualifications they possess, if they are a fit for the company and local office culture, and the current business needs, an Entry-Level Geotechnical Engineer typically would be placed at a Shannon & Wilson Professional I, II, III, or IV level.
Compensation:
Professional I: $70,304 - $98,340
Professional II: $72,640 - $108,960
Professional III: $79,680 - $119,520
Professional IV: $86,760 - $130,140
Shannon & Wilson is committed to providing a comprehensive total rewards package that includes the following benefits:
  • Employee stock ownership
  • Medical, prescription, vision, dental, long-term care and life insurance plans are offered to employees (and their families).
  • Pre-tax health and daycare FSA
  • Profit sharing and 401(k) plans with annual safe-harbor contributions 10 - 20 paid vacation days per year for full-time employees (prorated for part-time employment) based on year's of experience
  • Since sick leave accrues based on hours worked might be best to list as an hourly accrual, or plan to update for PT postings.
  • 9 paid holidays per year + 1 personal holiday
  • Paid volunteer day
  • Paid time off for bereavement and jury duty
  • Two weeks of paid parental leave
  • Lunch & Live wellness webinars and an Employee Assistance Program
  • Mentorship Program
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Free parking

Shannon & Wilson is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Shannon & Wilson participates in the E-Verify program.
Please note that non-solicited resumes from external recruitment agencies will not be considered as introductions to our business, unless a preapproved agreement is in place and the external recruitment agency has been engaged to work on this specific vacancy.
Salary Description
$70,304 - $130,140

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