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Lead Geotechnical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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

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 ...

Senior Geotechnical Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$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 ...

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

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 ...

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Lead Geotechnical Engineer information

See salary details

$40K

$92.9K

$147.5K

How much do lead geotechnical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 1, 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
Infographic showing various Lead Geotechnical Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 34% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 38% Contract, and 22% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,871 per year, or $44.6 per hour.

Senior Geotechnical Engineer

GFT.

Asheville, NC

$120K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

GFT is seeking a Senior Geotechnical Engineer to join our Geotechnical Dams & Hydraulics Team in either Raleigh or Asheville, NC! This role follows a hybrid work model, requiring regular attendance in the office.

GFT's Geotechnical Dams & Hydraulics Team

Our specialists have the in-depth knowledge to excel on the most challenging geotechnical assignments. We provide innovative solutions for foundations; underground construction; earth structures, including dams and levees; groundwater resources; and marginal building sites. Our geotechnical engineers and geologists also specialize in landslides, sinkholes, mine subsidence, seepage, expansive soils, and seismic activity. We have completed more than 1,000 subsurface and geophysical projects across the U.S. - from small-scale projects to large, complex dams, highways, bridges, and underground structures.

What you'll be challenged to do:This is an excellent career opportunity for an experienced, motivated, and licensed Geotechnical Engineer who thrives in a collaborative team environment. You will assist other senior-level engineers and project managers in planning and overseeing subsurface explorations and performing analyses for transportation, facilities, water resources, and other types of projects.

In this capacity, the successful candidate will be responsible for the following: 

  • Lead geotechnical analysis and design efforts for various projects and facilities including, but not limited to, shallow and deep foundations, retaining structures, tieback anchors, soil nails, slope stability design and/or stabilization for highways and dams.
  • Prepare written reports and documentation, geotechnical correspondence, design and construction drawings and specifications.
  • Plan, or assist in the planning of subsurface explorations and laboratory testing investigations.
  • Provide construction observation support during the construction phase of various projects.
  • Assist in preparation of geotechnical technical and cost proposals.
  • Serve as lead geotechnical engineer for geotechnical projects or geotechnical components of multidisciplined projects as assigned. 
What you will bring to our firm: 
  • Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering 
  • Professional Engineer (P.E.) license in North Carolina, or ability to obtain professional registration within 6 months of hire date.
  • 10+ years of geotechnical experience with an emphasis in design and development of geotechnical deliverables including investigation and design reports, drawings, and specifications.
  • Experience preparing NCDOT roadway, bridge, retaining wall, and culvert subsurface inventory and recommendations reports.
  • Experience with Microsoft Office Suite and Microstation
  • Experience in slope stability analysis, shallow and deep foundation design including axial and lateral capacity, retaining structure design, settlement, etc.
  • Experience with gINT, APile, LPile, GRLWEAP, and Slope/W (or similar).
  • Strong analytical and report writing skills.
  • Strong verbal communication skills and ability to work independently and within a team environment.
  • Strong leadership ability and personal initiative.
  • Must have current Driver's License.
 What we prefer you bring: 
  • Master's Degree in Civil Engineering.
  • Field experience with construction observation for highway, landslide remediation, and dam projects.
 Compensation:The salary range for this role is $120,000 - $175,000. Salary is dependent upon experience and geographic location. Featured Benefits:  Hybrid (in-person and remote) work environment. Comprehensive benefits package including wellness programs, parental leave, and pet insurance, in addition to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance. Tax-deferred 401(k) savings plan. Competitive paid-time-off (PTO) accrual. Tuition reimbursement for continued education. Commitment to professional development, access to internal and external training programs, and support of active participation in professional organizations Incentive compensation for eligible positions.

At GFT, a privately held AEC firm, we innovate where transportation, water, power, and buildings converge. We call this the Infrastructure of Life. We measure our success by the strength of our relationships - that's why we're the employer of choice for 5,000+ of the industry's brightest engineers, planners, architects, inspectors, designers, and more.

Our clients choose us for our expertise and prefer us for our nimble approach, creativity, and personal touch. Backed by over a century's experience, together we're building a lasting legacy for future generations: stronger communities, a healthier planet, and better lives.GFT: Ingenuity That Shapes Lives is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veterans' status or other characteristics protected by law.

Unsolicited resumes from third party agencies will be considered the property GFT.

Location: Raleigh, NC; Asheville, NCCore Business Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PMEmployment Status: Full-Time GFT does require the successful completion of a criminal background check for all advertised positions.

 

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Employment Type: FULL_TIME