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Lead Geotechnical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Atlas

Principal Geotechnical Engineer

Oakland, CA · On-site

Lead geotechnical design, investigation, and analysis for buildings and infrastructure projects ... Master's Degree in Geotechnical Engineering preferred. * Minimum 15 years of experience in ...

GFT.

Senior Geotechnical Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$120K - $175K/yr

Lead geotechnical analysis and design efforts for various projects and facilities including, but ... Professional Engineer (P.E.) license in North Carolina, or ability to obtain professional ...

Atlas

Principal Geotechnical Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

Lead geotechnical design, investigation, and analysis for buildings and infrastructure projects ... Bachelor's degree in civil engineering; master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering preferred.

GFT.

Senior Geotechnical Engineer

Raleigh, NC

$120K - $175K/yr

Lead geotechnical analysis and design efforts for various projects and facilities including, but ... Professional Engineer (P.E.) license in North Carolina, or ability to obtain professional ...

GFT.

Senior Geotechnical Engineer

Asheville, NC

$120K - $175K/yr

Lead geotechnical analysis and design efforts for various projects and facilities including, but ... Professional Engineer (P.E.) license in North Carolina, or ability to obtain professional ...

GFT.

Senior Geotechnical Engineer

Raleigh, NC

$120K - $175K/yr

Lead geotechnical analysis and design efforts for various projects and facilities including, but ... Professional Engineer (P.E.) license in North Carolina, or ability to obtain professional ...

Atlas

Principal Geotechnical Engineer

Lakewood, CO · On-site

Lead geotechnical design, investigation, and analysis for buildings and infrastructure projects ... Bachelor's degree in civil engineering; master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering preferred.

Gridworks

Sr. Geotechnical Engineer

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

In this role, you will lead geotechnical and foundation engineering, serve as Engineer of Record (EOR) on assigned projects, partner closely with our self-perform construction teams, and provide ...

WSP

Lead Geotechnical Engineer (Mine Waste)

Reno, NV

This Opportunity WSP is seeking a Lead Civil/Geotechnical Engineer to join our US Mine Waste team, at our office located in Reno, NV. The following locations will also be considered: Elko, NV. You ...

GFT.

Senior Geotechnical Engineer

Boston, MA

$120K - $175K/yr

This individual will lead geotechnical engineers and assist project managers in planning and overseeing subsurface explorations and performing analyses for transportation, facilities, water resources ...

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All JobsLead Geotechnical Engineer Jobs

Lead Geotechnical Engineer information

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$40K

$92.9K

$147.5K

How much do lead geotechnical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead 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 Lead Geotechnical Engineers?

Lead Geotechnical Engineers are senior professionals who oversee the analysis, design, and implementation of projects related to soil, rock, and underground water conditions. They are responsible for leading teams in evaluating ground stability, developing foundation solutions, and ensuring that construction projects are safe and compliant with regulations. Their role often involves managing geotechnical investigations, reviewing technical reports, and providing expert advice to project stakeholders throughout the design and construction phases.

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

To thrive as a Lead Geotechnical Engineer, you need a strong background in civil or geotechnical engineering, a relevant engineering degree, and a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Proficiency with geotechnical analysis software (such as PLAXIS or GeoStudio), soil testing equipment, and project management tools is typically required. Leadership, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities are crucial soft skills for guiding teams and collaborating with stakeholders. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, efficient, and compliant project delivery in complex engineering environments.

How does a Lead Geotechnical Engineer typically collaborate with other engineering disciplines on large projects?

A Lead Geotechnical Engineer frequently works alongside structural, civil, and environmental engineers to ensure that site investigations and ground recommendations align with the overall project design. This collaboration often involves participating in interdisciplinary meetings, sharing geotechnical data, and providing expert input on foundation options and site risks. Effective communication and coordination are key, as geotechnical recommendations can significantly influence structural designs and construction methods. By working closely with other teams, the Lead Geotechnical Engineer helps to identify potential challenges early and develop integrated solutions that support project success.

What is the difference between Lead Geotechnical Engineer vs Geotechnical Engineer?

AspectLead Geotechnical EngineerGeotechnical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Geotechnical Engineering, often with 5+ years experienceBachelor's or Master's in Geotechnical Engineering, typically with 1-3 years experience
Work EnvironmentLeads projects, manages teams, and coordinates with clientsPerforms technical analysis, site investigations, and report writing
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in consulting firms, construction, and infrastructure projectsCommonly employed in engineering consulting and construction firms

The main difference between a Lead Geotechnical Engineer and a Geotechnical Engineer lies in their responsibilities and experience level. The Lead Geotechnical Engineer typically manages projects and teams, requiring more experience and leadership skills, while the Geotechnical Engineer focuses on technical analysis and site investigations. Both roles are essential in geotechnical projects, but the lead position involves greater oversight and coordination.

More about Lead Geotechnical Engineer jobs
What job categories do people searching Lead Geotechnical Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Lead Geotechnical Engineer jobs are:
Lead Geotechnical Engineer jobs near you
Principal Geotechnical Engineer

Principal Geotechnical Engineer

Atlas

Oakland, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Atlas Technical Consultants rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

124th of 352 rated engineering

Job description

About Atlas
Atlas is a trusted leader in environmental and infrastructure consulting services; we provide services that enable communities to flourish and thrive. With a team of 3,500 employees and offices throughout the US, we combine local expertise and a network of relationships to deliver solutions to both public and private clients. Our services help improve the quality of life in the communities where we live and work. We always aim for smart, safe, and sustainable results. At Atlas we understand that our future is everyone's responsibility, and we create a better experience at every stage of a project.
Job Description
At Atlas, we're providing services that enable communities to flourish and thrive, and if you're a Principal Geotechnical Engineer ready to provide technical leadership for geotechnical investigations, design, construction support, and client and team coordination across diverse public and private projects, and committed to doing meaningful work, then this is your moment. You'll carry out geotechnical investigations and analyses, prepare technical recommendations, support construction activities, coordinate with clients and project teams, mentor junior engineers, and contribute to business and professional development efforts. Join a dynamic, value-driven, client- and community-focused environment where your work creates a lasting positive impact for the people and communities we serve. Office is located in San Ramon, CA.
Core Responsibilities
  • Provide technical guidance on geotechnical engineering aspects of a wide range of public- and private-sector projects, ensuring conformance with local, state, and federal guidelines.
  • Lead geotechnical design, investigation, and analysis for buildings and infrastructure projects, including residential/commercial buildings, bridges, highways, railways, airports, pipelines, and levees/basins.
  • Direct and supervise subsurface explorations, laboratory testing, geotechnical data interpretation, instrumentation monitoring, and associated geotechnical analyses for foundations, earthwork, slope stability, seepage, lateral earth pressures, and earthquake engineering.
  • Supervise and lead geotechnical support during construction of geotechnical elements, including shallow foundations, drilled shafts, pile driving, grading, utility trenching, and other earthwork operations.
  • Liaise with clients, stakeholders, and governmental personnel to ensure comprehensive resolution of geotechnical concerns, while fostering strong long-term client relationships and supporting business development opportunities.
  • Mentor and train junior geotechnical engineers, maintain involvement in professional associations, and contribute to the state-of-practice of geotechnical engineering through community engagement.

You'll thrive here if you
  • Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering; Master's Degree in Geotechnical Engineering preferred.
  • Minimum 15 years of experience in geotechnical engineering practice with an emphasis on geotechnical design and analysis, geotechnical field investigation, and construction supervision.
  • The successful candidate must be a licensed Geotechnical Engineer in the state of California.
  • Local experience and familiarity with the local engineering practice required
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills essential for team-based working
  • Extensive geotechnical background including a strong fundamental knowledge of principles of geotechnical engineering, soil and rock mechanics, earthquake engineering, pavement engineering, and groundwater hydrogeology.
  • Experience with geotechnical software including slope stability packages, pile modeling tools, site response software preferred.
  • Familiarity with DSA/CGS guidelines and deliverables is preferred.
  • Familiarity with Caltrans standards, guidelines, and deliverables is preferred.
  • Experience in construction oversight for foundation construction and earthwork observation

What you can expect from us
The A-Team Experience is our employee program focused on helping our people thrive professionally, personally and as part of a community. We trust our people to do great work and live fulfilling lives, and we provide resources that care for our people, both at work and in life:
  • Health & Wellness: We offer medical, dental and vision coverage with multiple plan options, including no-cost employee-only medical coverage.
  • Time Off & Family Support: We offer vacation time, paid holidays, sick & safety leave (SSL) and paid parental leave
  • Retirement: We help employees plan for the future with a 401(k) and company match.
  • Insurance: To provide protection and peace of mind, we offer Life, AD&D (Accidental Death & Dismemberment) and Disability insurance.
  • Safety Program: We are committed to safety as part of our 'quality of life' core value, and we provide approved PPE at no cost and reimbursement for prescription safety glasses and protective footwear.
  • Learning & Development: We provide clear career paths, learning resources and development programs allowing you to see how you can grow and advance within the company. We offer internal certifications on specific skills and support external credentials through tuition reimbursement.
  • Belonging: We support Employee Communities (ECs), voluntary, employee-led groups that create connections, belonging and shared purposes.
  • Flexibility: May vary by project demands and regional workloads, but we are committed to providing reasonable accommodation to help employees manage their personal and professional responsibilities.

Our people and our culture are central to our work. Our values bring us together, create a sense of belonging and give us purpose. They guide how we make decisions, how we work as a team and how we serve our clients.
  • Life: We enhance the quality of life. We value people and safety above all else.
  • Heart: As our hallmark, we act with compassion, empathy, and respect.
  • Trust: We work together as partners, doing what we say with full accountability.
  • Mastery: Always striving for the highest quality, greatness inspires our work.

About the Job
  • Career Level: Senior
  • Employment Type: Full-time
  • Compensation: $195,000 - $205,500 annual salary
    The expected salary range for the position is displayed in accordance with the state's law. Final agreed upon compensation is based upon individual qualifications and experience.

EEO Statement
Atlas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants without regard to race (including hairstyles, hair texture, hair type, or hair length commonly or historically associated with race), ethnicity, creed, religion or religious creed, color, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, and related medical conditions or requests for pregnancy disability leave and/or family care leave), gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, citizenship or immigration status, primary language, crime victim status, criminal conviction history, uniformed service member or veteran status, marital status, age, genetic information, disability or protected medical condition, genetics, political affiliation or activities, or any other status protected under applicable federal, state, or local laws.
Notice to Third Party Agencies
Please note that Atlas Technical Consultants does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or employment agencies. In the absence of a signed Recruitment Fee Agreement, Atlas will not consider or agree to payment of any referral compensation or recruiter fee. In the event a recruiter or agency submits a resume or candidate without a previously signed agreement, Atlas explicitly reserves the right to pursue and hire those candidate(s) without any financial obligation to the recruiter or agency. Any unsolicited resumes, including those submitted to hiring managers, are deemed to be the property of Atlas.
Ready to build a career to be proud of? Join the A-Team today!
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