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Geotechnical Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Geotechnical R&D Engineer

Acton, MA ยท On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Job Details We are looking for a Geotechnical Research, Development & Production Engineer to join our high-performing team at Geocomp! We are seeking a technology-minded, research-driven engineer ...

Job Details We are looking for a Geotechnical Research, Development & Production Engineer to join our high-performing team at Geocomp! We are seeking a technology-minded, research-driven engineer ...

Perform professional geotechnical engineering work and conduct research and inspections of proposed and existing site conditions, including subsurface investigations, soil foundation engineering ...

Geotechnical Engineer

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$95K - $135K/yr

Geotechnical Engineer Department: Technology & Software Employment Type: Full Time Location ... Research and resolve design and construction problems. Assign, review, and evaluate laboratory or ...

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Geotechnical Research information

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$34.5K

$107.6K

$172K

How much do geotechnical research jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for geotechnical research 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 a Geotechnical Research job?

A Geotechnical Research job involves studying soil, rock, and underground conditions to assess their impact on construction, infrastructure, and environmental projects. Researchers analyze data from field tests, laboratory experiments, and simulations to understand ground behavior and recommend safe design solutions. They work closely with engineers, geologists, and environmental scientists to mitigate risks such as landslides, foundation failures, and soil instability. This role is essential in ensuring the safety and sustainability of structures like buildings, bridges, and tunnels.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Geotechnical Research position, and why are they important?

To excel in Geotechnical Research, a strong background in civil or geotechnical engineering, geology, or a related field is necessary, often supported by advanced degrees. Familiarity with geotechnical analysis software (such as GeoStudio or PLAXIS), laboratory testing equipment, and data interpretation tools is important, along with certifications like PE or EIT being beneficial. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication skills help researchers collaborate and present findings. These abilities ensure the safe design and assessment of earthworks, foundations, and infrastructure projects by grounding research in sound scientific and engineering principles.

What are typical projects and responsibilities for someone working in Geotechnical Research?

Professionals in Geotechnical Research often work on projects involving site investigations, soil and rock testing, and the analysis of ground conditions to support the design and construction of infrastructure. Daily tasks may include collecting and analyzing field data, performing laboratory tests, developing geotechnical models, and preparing technical reports or presentations for clients and project teams. Collaboration is common, as researchers often team up with civil engineers, environmental scientists, and construction managers to ensure safe, cost-effective solutions. The work environment can range from office-based data analysis to on-site investigations and laboratory activities. This diversity provides opportunities to develop broad technical expertise while making tangible contributions to large-scale engineering projects.
What cities are hiring for Geotechnical Research jobs? Cities with the most Geotechnical Research job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Geotechnical Research jobs? The most popular types of Geotechnical Research jobs are:
What states have the most Geotechnical Research jobs? States with the most job openings for Geotechnical Research jobs include:
Infographic showing various Geotechnical Research job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $107,595 per year, or $51.7 per hour.

Geotechnical R&D Engineer

Cgg

Acton, MA โ€ข On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Geocomp, Inc. is a uniquely integrated company providing services and products to help clients identify and manage risk associated with infrastructure design, construction, and operation. With over 40 years of experience, Geocomp is well-positioned to help clients on a wide range of projects, providing geostructural consulting, monitoring, and laboratory testing services worldwide. Geocomp also manufactures, sells, and offers expert technical support for our fully automated laboratory testing systems to commercial, research, and academic labs, globally.

Job Details

We are looking for a Geotechnical Research, Development & Production Engineer to join our high-performing team at Geocomp!

We are seeking a technology-minded, research-driven engineer with a passion for geotechnical lab testing and innovation. Ideal candidates are proactive, collaborative, and motivated to drive meaningful contributions in the geotechnical field.

The successful candidate will help translate theoretical research into practical tools that emphasize accuracy, automation, and repeatability-improving how engineers assess complex soil behaviors.

You will work on advanced geotechnical projects such as:

  • Unsaturated soil testing systems
  • Temperature control systems
  • P-wave and S-wave velocity measurement systems
  • Resonant column and torsional shear systems
  • Cyclic triaxial, cyclic shear, and bidirectional loading systems

You will also manage customer relationships, support product delivery timelines, and lead development from prototype to production-ready equipment.

This is an exciting opportunity to apply your geotechnical expertise in a dynamic environment focused on innovation, precision, and quality.

About the Team

In this role, you will be a key contributor to our Production, Research, and Development (R&D) division, collaborating with engineers, clients, and industry partners to enhance existing products and develop next-generation testing systems.

Qualifications:

Required

  • Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering with significant research in advanced soil mechanics and laboratory testing
  • Strong hands-on experience with equipment such as:
  • Cyclic triaxial
  • Direct/simple shear
  • Resonant column and torsional shear
  • Bender element systems
  • Solid understanding of geotechnical laboratory standards (ASTM, BS, ISO)
  • Ability to manage projects and collaborate with academic and industry partners
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills to present complex technical topics clearly
  • Passion for geotechnical testing and a desire to deepen understanding of soil behavior

Preferred Qualifications

  • PhD in Geotechnical Engineering with a focus on Unsaturated Soil Mechanics
  • Experience developing and validating geotechnical testing prototypes
  • Research background with peer-reviewed publications in soil dynamics or unsaturated soils
  • Prior involvement in large-scale geotechnical R&D projects related to cyclic loading or earthquake engineering
  • Experience transitioning R&D prototypes into manufacturable, quality-controlled products
  • Familiarity with calibration, quality control, and system integration for precision equipment manufacturing

Benefits Package:

  • Base salary range: $90,000-$100,000 per year
    (Actual compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and internal equity. The range listed reflects the base salary only and does not include bonus, benefits, or other forms of compensation.)
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Comprehensive health insurance
  • Health savings account (HSA)
  • Paid time off (PTO)
  • Professional development assistance
  • Employee referral program

Our Hiring Process

At Geocomp, we are committed to delivering a respectful, inclusive, and transparent recruitment experience.

Due to the high volume of applications we receive, we may not be able to provide individual feedback to every applicant. Only candidates whose qualifications closely match the role criteria will be contacted for an interview. We do, however, aim to share personalized feedback with those who progress to the first round of interviews and beyond.

We are also dedicated to ensuring that our hiring process accessible to all. If you require any reasonable adjustments to fully participate in the application or interview stages, please don't hesitate to contact your recruiter directly.

We see things differently. Diversity fuels our innovation, we value the unique ways in which we differ, and we are committed to equal employment opportunities for all professionals.