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Graduate Geotechnical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

WSP

Lead Geotechnical Engineer

Lakewood, CO · On-site

$98K - $175K/yr

Approximately 7+ years of relevant post-graduate experience in geotechnical engineering, with increasing responsibility for technical work. * Professional Engineer (PE) license in Colorado or the ...

Rio Tinto

Geotechnical Engineer

Salt Lake City, UT

Geotechnical Engineer * Rio Tinto is a leading global mining and metals company where safety comes ... Has completed 3 years of graduate training on site/s. * Proven experience in tailings storage ...

Dewberry

Geotechnical Engineer

Mechanicsburg, PA · On-site

Whether you're an experienced professional or a new graduate, you'll have the chance to collaborate ... geotechnical engineering), MS or PhD degree preferred * Ideal experience would be 3-5 years of ...

Dewberry

Geotechnical Engineer

Mechanicsburg, PA

Whether you're an experienced professional or a new graduate, you'll have the chance to collaborate ... geotechnical engineering), MS or PhD degree preferred * Ideal experience would be 3-5 years of ...

CDM Smith

Geotechnical Engineer 1

Fairfax, VA

CDM Smith is seeking an entry-level graduate to join our Geotechnical Engineering team in Fairfax! Under direct supervision, supports geotechnical engineering work on a variety of civil ...

Staff Experts LLC

Geotechnical Engineer

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

May supervise field staff including graduate/field engineers, engineering technicians, exploration ... Requirements: * Bachelor's degree in Geotechnical Engineering. * Minimum 1 years' experience

WSP

Associate Geotechnical Engineer

Irvine, CA

... combinations of graduate level degree and experience. Candidate is expected to have basic ... Bachelor's Degree in Geotechnical Engineering, or closely related discipline (or equivalent ...

Barr

Geotechnical Engineer - Mid Level (Hybrid)

Reno, NV · Hybrid

$85K - $100K/yr

A graduate degree in geotechnical engineering is preferred. A Professional Engineer (PE) license or the ability to obtain one is preferred. * Experience: 5+ years of relevant experience. Strong ...

TERRACON

Senior Geotechnical Engineer

Mobile, AL · On-site

Senior Geotechnical Engineer - Lead Projects. Build Clients. Shape Infrastructure. Join Terracon ... Supervise field staff including graduate/field engineers, engineering technicians, exploration ...

WSP

Associate Geotechnical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

... combinations of graduate level degree and experience. Candidate is expected to have basic ... Bachelor's Degree in Geotechnical Engineering, or closely related discipline (or equivalent ...

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All JobsGraduate Geotechnical Engineer Jobs

Graduate Geotechnical Engineer information

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$40K

$92.9K

$147.5K

How much do graduate geotechnical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for graduate geotechnical engineer in the United States is $92,871.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,000.00 and $109,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical projects a Graduate Geotechnical Engineer might work on during their first year?

As a Graduate Geotechnical Engineer, you can expect to be involved in a variety of projects, such as site investigations, soil and rock analysis, foundation design, and slope stability assessments. Entry-level engineers often assist with fieldwork, laboratory testing, data analysis, and report preparation under the supervision of senior engineers. This hands-on experience helps build a strong foundation in geotechnical principles, teamwork, and project management, while also exposing you to different sectors like infrastructure, energy, and construction.

What is the difference between Graduate Geotechnical Engineer vs Civil Engineer?

AspectGraduate Geotechnical EngineerCivil Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Geotechnical Engineering or related field; some internshipsBachelor's in Civil Engineering; may include specialization
Work EnvironmentSite investigations, soil testing labs, design officesConstruction sites, design offices, project management
Industry UsageSpecialized in geotechnical analysis, soil mechanicsBroader civil projects including structures, transportation, water

The main difference is that Graduate Geotechnical Engineers focus specifically on soil and foundation analysis, while Civil Engineers have a broader scope covering various infrastructure projects. Both roles often require similar educational backgrounds but differ in specialization and daily tasks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Graduate Geotechnical Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Graduate Geotechnical Engineer, you need a solid understanding of soil mechanics, geology, and civil engineering principles, usually supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, PLAXIS, and geotechnical data analysis tools, as well as basic knowledge of laboratory and field testing methods, is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication make candidates stand out in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial for delivering reliable ground investigations, supporting safe design decisions, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams on construction projects.

What does a Graduate Geotechnical Engineer do?

A Graduate Geotechnical Engineer is an entry-level engineering professional who specializes in studying the behavior of earth materials, such as soil and rock, and their interaction with structures. They assist in site investigations, laboratory testing, data analysis, and the design of foundations, slopes, tunnels, and retaining walls. Working under the supervision of senior engineers, they help ensure that construction projects are safe, stable, and environmentally sustainable. Their work often involves both office-based analysis and fieldwork at construction or project sites.
More about Graduate Geotechnical Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Graduate Geotechnical Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Graduate Geotechnical Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Graduate Geotechnical Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Graduate Geotechnical Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Graduate Geotechnical Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Graduate Geotechnical Engineer jobs are:
Graduate Geotechnical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Graduate Geotechnical Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% As Needed, 33% Full Time, and 22% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,871 per year, or $44.6 per hour.
Lead Geotechnical Engineer

Lead Geotechnical Engineer

WSP

Lakewood, CO • On-site

$98K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

WSP rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 67 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 57 rated business consultants

Job description


This Opportunity
WSP is seeking a Lead Geotechnical Engineer to support and grow our Geohazards and Geotechnical Engineering practice based in Lakewood, Colorado. This role is ideal for an experienced engineer who enjoys combining strong technical geotechnical fundamentals with applied problem-solving on complex sites.
You will work on a diverse mix of projects that include geohazard assessment and mitigation, as well as more conventional geotechnical engineering for transportation, mining, energy, and other infrastructure projects. The role offers the opportunity to take on increasing technical leadership, support project delivery, manage projects, mentor junior staff, and collaborate closely with senior technical leaders across the region.
This position is well-suited for someone who wants to remain hands-on technically, while also helping shape project approaches and supporting the growth of the geohazards/geotechnical practice.
Your Impact
  • Provide geotechnical engineering expertise on projects involving transportation corridors, infrastructure, mining, energy, and natural hazard mitigation.
  • Lead or support geohazard evaluations including rockfall, landslides, debris flows, slope stability, and related mitigation design.
  • Plan and oversee geotechnical field investigations, including drilling programs, test pits, instrumentation installation, and geophysical surveys.
  • Perform and review geotechnical analyses such as slope stability, earth retention, shallow and deep foundation design, settlement analysis, and rock mechanics.
  • Prepare, review, and contribute to technical reports, design memoranda, calculations, plans, and specifications.
  • Support other project managers with scope development, task planning, schedules, and budgets, commensurate with experience level.
  • Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and field staff.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and interface with clients, agencies, and contractors.
  • Contribute to proposal development, technical approaches, and pursuit support as opportunities arise.
  • Promote a strong culture of safety, quality, and professional integrity in all project work.

Who You Are
Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Geotechnical Engineering, Geological Engineering, Civil Engineering (geotechnical focus), or a closely related discipline.
  • Approximately 7+ years of relevant post-graduate experience in geotechnical engineering, with increasing responsibility for technical work.
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license in Colorado or the ability to obtain within a reasonable timeframe.
  • Solid technical foundation in soil and rock mechanics, geotechnical analysis, and engineering judgment.
  • Experience working on field investigations, data interpretation, and development of engineering recommendations.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly convey technical concepts.
  • Ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative project team.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master's Degree in Geotechnical or Geological Engineering.
  • Experience with geohazard-related projects such as rockfall, landslides, debris flows, avalanche, or embankment failures.
  • Familiarity with discipline-specific software (e.g., GeoStudio, Rocscience, gINT, Open Ground, LPILE, GIS, Civil 3D).
  • Experience providing technical review of calculations, reports, and design deliverables.
  • Interest in mentoring staff and contributing to technical practice development.
  • Experience working in mountainous or complex geologic terrain typical of the western U.S.

WSP Benefits:
WSP provides a comprehensive suite of benefits focused on a providing health and financial stability throughout the employee's career. These benefits include coverage related to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life; retirement savings; paid sick leave; paid vacation (or other personal time); paid parental leave; and paid time off for purposes of bereavement, voting, and/or attendance at naturalization proceedings.
Compensation:
Expected Salary (Colorado only): $98,300 - $175,230
WSP USA is providing the compensation range that the company in good faith believes it might pay and/or offer for this position within the state of Colorado, based on the successful applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities in addition to internal equity and specific geographic location. WSP USA reserves the right to ultimately pay more or less than the posted range and offer additional benefits and other compensation, depending on circumstances not related to an applicant's sex or other status protected by local, state, and/or federal law.
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