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Geotechnical Lab Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tetra Tech, Inc.

Geotechnical Engineer

Billings, MT · On-site

Familiarity with geotechnical lab testing and construction materials testing expected. * Excellent writing and speaking skills, comfortable with client communications. * Ability to work independently ...

Wood Plc

Senior Geotechnical Engineer

Dallas, TX

Our Dallas and El Paso offices have large soil/concrete/asphalt laboratories that perform construction materials and geotechnical lab analysis. Our clients generally consist of local municipalities ...

ANS

Lab Engineer (Intern)

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

The Lab Engineer (Intern) plays a crucial role in advancing ANS's geotechnical engineering initiatives by conducting soil testing within our in-house geotechnical lab. This role primarily encompasses ...

ANS

Lab Engineer (Intern)

Oklahoma City, OK

$18 - $22/hr

The Lab Engineer (Intern) plays a crucial role in advancing ANS's geotechnical engineering initiatives by conducting soil testing within our in-house geotechnical lab. This role primarily encompasses ...

Boutique Recruiting

Lab Manager

Livermore, CA · On-site

$30 - $38/hr

The Lab Manager will oversee testing processes, guaranteeing that all tasks are completed ... Geotechnical testing experience is highly preferred, but candidates with similar testing ...

New

ANS

Lab Engineer (Intern)

Alvarado, TX

$18 - $22/hr

The Lab Engineer (Intern) plays a crucial role in advancing ANS's geotechnical engineering initiatives by conducting soil testing within ANS's in-house geotechnical lab. This role primarily ...

ANS

Lab Engineer (Intern)

Columbus, OH · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

The Lab Engineer (Intern) plays a crucial role in advancing ANS's geotechnical engineering initiatives by conducting soil testing within our in-house geotechnical lab. This role primarily encompasses ...

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Geotechnical Lab information

See salary details

$34.5K

$107.6K

$172K

How much do geotechnical lab jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for geotechnical lab in the United States is $107,595.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,000.00 and $130,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paid lab technician?

In geotechnical laboratories, the highest paid lab technicians are often those with advanced certifications, specialized skills, and extensive experience, earning salaries that can exceed $60,000 annually. Senior technicians or those in managerial roles may earn higher wages, especially if they oversee complex testing or manage multiple projects.

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.

Is geotech a good career?

A career in geotechnical engineering involves analyzing soil and rock properties to support construction projects, often requiring knowledge of geotechnical testing, soil mechanics, and fieldwork. It offers steady employment opportunities, especially for those with relevant certifications and technical skills, and can lead to roles in consulting, construction, or research. The field typically involves working outdoors and in laboratories, with a focus on safety and precision.

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.

Is geotechnical engineering in high demand?

Geotechnical engineering is in steady demand due to ongoing infrastructure development, construction projects, and the need for soil and foundation analysis. Professionals in this field with skills in laboratory testing, site investigation, and geotechnical software are often sought after by engineering firms and construction companies.

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 does a geotechnical lab technician do?

A geotechnical lab technician conducts tests on soil, rock, and other materials to assess their properties for construction and engineering projects. They prepare samples, operate testing equipment, record data, and ensure tests meet industry standards, often working with tools like triaxial testers and sieve shakers. Attention to detail and knowledge of safety protocols are essential in this role.
More about Geotechnical Lab jobs
What cities are hiring for Geotechnical Lab jobs? Cities with the most Geotechnical Lab job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Geotechnical Lab jobs? The most popular types of Geotechnical Lab jobs are:
What states have the most Geotechnical Lab jobs? States with the most job openings for Geotechnical Lab jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Geotechnical Lab jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Geotechnical Lab jobs are:
Geotechnical Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Geotechnical Lab job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Locum Tenens, 88% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,595 per year, or $51.7 per hour.
Geotechnical Project Engineer

Geotechnical Project Engineer

PEA Group

Auburn Hills, MI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Overview

The Geotechnical Project Engineer technically leads a staff which may include staff engineers and engineering technicians, while the entire team reports to a Project Manager.  Also requires working independently to plan, execute, and oversee engineering tasks in order to complete a project.

Responsibilities
  • Prepares engineering analysis, design, calculations, and reports for a portion or all of a project for review by a Project Manager.
  • Plans geotechnical investigations, oversees drilling and lab testing and prepares reports with recommendations.
  • Works with dynamic design teams including architects, structural engineers, civil engineers, land use planners, attorneys, owners, and facility managers.
  • Prepares project drawings, calculations, and specifications.
  • Assists in the preparation of proposals and fee estimates for potential projects, may assist in marketing and meetings with existing or potential clients. 
  • Maintains complete geotechnical design responsibility for projects and fields questions during the construction phase from clients and/or contractors.
  • Performs construction assistance related tasks including reviewing concrete and asphalt mix designs, visiting job sites, reviewing technicians' daily reports, and coordinating with contractors, clients and owners.
  • Assists in training and mentoring of staff engineers and engineering technicians.
  • Attends and participates in project meetings.
  • Stays current on legal and industry regulations.
  • Performs or oversees geotechnical lab testing and training.
  • Assists the Geotechnical Project Manager in client billing.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
Qualifications

Formal Education, Licenses and Certifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or equivalent
  • Michigan P.E. License or ability to obtain within six (6) months

Knowledge and Experience

  • 5-10 years of geotechnical engineering experience showing progressively increasing responsibility.
  • Experience with typical computer software programs used for geotechnical engineering design including deep foundation, earth retention, pavement design and slope stability.

Competencies and Personal Attributes

  • Self-motivated and responsible.
  • Ability to work collaboratively on a project team.
  • Ability to plan ones' own time and demonstrates good time management skills.
  • Ability to problem-solve, complete assigned tasks efficiently and exercise sound engineering judgment.
  • Ability to work on several projects concurrently, prioritize work load and cope with tight timelines to meet all deadlines without compromising quality.
  • Effective written and verbal communication is necessary. Ability to shape communications for specific audiences and can accept and receive feedback.
  • Strong attention to detail and has an aptitude for noticing small errors on engineering designs.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Work is performed mostly in office settings. Some outdoor work is required in the inspection of various land use developments, construction sites or public works facilities. Hand-eye coordination is necessary to operate CAD, computers and various pieces of office equipment.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; use hands to handle, feel or operate objects, tools or controls; and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to sit; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; talk or hear. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move objects up to 25 pounds.

Availability

This is a full-time position. Days and hours of work are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and overtime as required.

Travel

Travel will be required to respective job sites and is primarily local during the business day.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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