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Geotechnical Soil Testing Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Performs geotechnical fieldwork and supports subsurface exploration activities * Assists with ... to obtain soil samples and subsurface data * Assists with or performs specialized testing (e.g ...

Performs geotechnical fieldwork and supports subsurface exploration activities * Assists with ... to obtain soil samples and subsurface data * Assists with or performs specialized testing (e.g ...

Classify soil and assign laboratory testing * Mentor and support Staff Project Managers, Assistant ... Today, we are a leader in geotechnical, construction materials, environmental and facilities ...

... and laboratory testing programs in soil and rock * Interacting with regulatory agencies ... Preparing geotechnical memoranda, data and design reports * Preparing design drawings and ...

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Geotechnical Soil Testing information

See Virginia salary details

$12

$23

$35

How much do geotechnical soil testing jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for geotechnical soil testing in Virginia is $23.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.85 and $25.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is geotechnical soil testing?

A Geotechnical Soil Testing job involves analyzing soil, rock, and groundwater conditions to assess their suitability for construction projects. Professionals in this role collect samples, conduct laboratory tests, and interpret results to provide recommendations on foundation design, soil stability, and potential environmental risks. This work helps engineers and developers make informed decisions to ensure the safety and longevity of structures. Geotechnical soil testers often work on-site and in labs, collaborating with geotechnical engineers and construction teams.

What does a geotechnical soil testing professional do?

A typical day for a professional in Geotechnical Soil Testing involves a mix of fieldwork and laboratory analysis. You might start with site visits to collect soil samples, perform on-site tests, and observe ground conditions, often working alongside engineers or construction teams. Back in the lab or office, you'll analyze samples, interpret data, and compile detailed reports for project stakeholders. The role often requires collaborating with geotechnical engineers, project managers, and sometimes environmental consultants to ensure the findings support safe and efficient project planning. Depending on the employer and job site, you may also participate in team meetings and coordinate logistics for upcoming tests.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed for geotechnical soil testing?

To thrive in Geotechnical Soil Testing, you need a solid background in geology, civil engineering, or a related field, along with experience in soil sampling, analysis, and report writing. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, field testing tools (such as penetrometers and augers), and software for data analysis, as well as certifications like OSHA HAZWOPER, are often required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication enhance performance in this role. These competencies are vital for ensuring accurate test results, safety, and clear reporting in projects that support infrastructure and construction development.

Are geotechnical soil testing engineers in demand?

Yes, geotechnical soil testing engineers are in demand due to ongoing infrastructure development and construction projects that require soil analysis and foundation assessments. The profession often requires knowledge of geotechnical engineering principles, soil sampling, and testing methods, with job growth expected in regions with active construction markets.

How do you become a geotechnical soil testing professional?

To become a geotechnical soil testing professional, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in geotechnical engineering, civil engineering, geology, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions and obtaining relevant certifications, such as those from the American Society of Civil Engineers or state licensing, can enhance career prospects. Proficiency with soil testing tools and understanding of geotechnical principles are essential for success in this field.
Infographic showing various Geotechnical Soil Testing job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,186 per year, or $23.2 per hour.

Geotechnical Engineer | 20+ Years

Wje

Falls Church, VA

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc. (WJE) is seeking an industry-leading, Associate Principal or Principal Geotechnical Engineer to be an integral part of expanding and developing ourgeotechnical engineering practicecompanywide.

If you are enthusiastic about investigating and solving problems, applying your engineering judgment beyond the strict application of the codes, and mentoring the next generation of forensic geotechnical engineers - we want you on our team!

This opportunity may be based in any WJE office across the continental United States:www.wje.com/offices.

Responsibilities:

  • Project management, including client development, project scoping, assembling and managing appropriate project teams, maintaining project schedules and budgets, and managing client expectations and deliverables

  • Technical leadership, including applying sound engineering judgment and a deep understanding of governing codes, design guidelines, and industry practices; collaborating with interdisciplinary project teams across WJE as the geotechnical engineering subject-matter expert (SME); leveraging your expertise for a variety of geotechnical engineering projects, including forensics, problem-solving, and remediation challenges related to buildings and/or infrastructure; preparing technically excellent client deliverables; providing high-quality reviews and oversight of work by others; and performing and training others in hands-on field work

  • Mentorship, including exemplifying WJE's culture of shared destiny and knowledge sharing to better the team around you: locally and company-wide, formally and informally, on-and-off projects, for technical topics and overall career development of staff

  • Contributions to geotechnical engineering practice and company-wide objectives, including participating in the attraction, development, and engagement new and existing clients; collaborating with other WJE practice leaders for in-house knowledge-sharing and training initiatives; and engaging in meaningful involvement in industry-related professional organizations, conferences, and technical committees

Qualifications:

  • Licensed Geotechnical Engineerin relevant state(s)

  • Master's degree or PhDin geotechnical engineering or related field

  • Minimum of 20 years of relevant industry experience (25+ preferred), including demonstrated expertise in geotechnical engineering applications across various soil conditions, including but not limited to: design and performance evaluation of foundations for various structure types (including deep foundations); hands-on investigation and testing methods to diagnose distressed conditions; underpinning, ground improvement, and other remedial measures for distressed buildings and other structures; slope stability and earth retention; and settlement issues

  • Dedicated self-starter, motivated to build a new consulting practice based on a "principles first" problem-solving approach

  • Excellent technical, graphical, written, and verbal communication skills

Physical Requirements:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job, with or without a reasonable accommodation. This position requires visual acuity and listening ability. Individuals must have the dexterity to be able to operate office and field equipment. Requirements may also include:

  • Ability to travel and attend meetings at various office, field, and construction sites

  • Ability to perform field observations and take soil samples and data measurements (e.g., log borings, piezometers, inclinometers, etc.)

  • Ability to safely work at heights, in confined spaces, and in a variety of occupationally hazardous locations, including outdoors with exposure to temperature extremes

  • Ability to safely use and/or operate ladders, scaffolds, lifts, and other access equipment

  • Ability to lift and carry materials, tools, and other heavy equipment up to 50 lbs.

  • Medically fit to utilize respiratory protection devices and other forms of Personal Protective Equipment

  • Ability to drive and safely operate a motor vehicle

Culture, Compensation, and Benefits:

Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc. (WJE) is a global firm of engineers, architects, and materials scientists. Clients worldwide seek our expertise to solve the most significant, interesting, and challenging problems in the built world. Our applied experience from more than 175,000 projects combined with unparalleled laboratory and testing capabilities have made WJE a leader in providing innovative yet practical solutions to the clients we serve.

Working at WJE is a team endeavor characterized by a culture of trust and personal responsibility. We encourage open communication, continuous learning, innovative thinking, ongoing mentoring, and free-flowing collaboration. We seek highly talented and hard-working individuals who want to be challenged, who want hands-on work, who want to set a higher standard, and who want to be mentored by the industry's most accomplished experts. People with outstanding Character, unwaveringCommitment to our core and culture, strongExpertise, and genuineEnthusiasm for their work.

Learn more about the Extraordinary People we hire at WJE at www.wje.com/careers

WJE offers a robust, total compensation structure composed of base salary, incentive pay, and industry-leading benefits:

  • Base salary is determined through consideration of a candidate's qualifications, skills, competencies, and proficiency for the role while remaining mindful of our commitment to internal equity.

  • Employees receive variable compensation based on personal and company performance, typically resulting in above-market total compensation.

A good faith estimate of the annual starting base salary (gross) is in the following range:

$132,380.00 - $220,630.00

WJE's industry-leading, total rewards package enables our employees to grow and thrive with comprehensive health and financial benefits, including:

  • Robust and affordable health plans for employees and their families, including HSA as well as low and high-deductible PPO options

  • Generous 401(k) matching of 110% for the first 6% of eligible pay, vesting immediately

  • Time off to care for yourself and others

  • Investments in employees' educational assistance and professional development

Learn more about WJE's total rewards package here.

WJE is an Equal Opportunity Employer as to all protected groups, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

WJE will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of Fair Chance Ordinances.