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Phd Earthquake Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$75K - $90K/yr

PhD or master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering or 2-5 years of related experience * Excellent coursework or experience in * Soil Behavior * Foundations Design * Geotechnical Earthquake ...

Civil - Geotechnical

San Ramon, CA · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

Position Summary As a Senior ENGEO Geotechnical Engineer with a specialty in Earthquake Engineering ... S. degree in a relevant field, PhD is preferred. * Experience: 5+ years relevant experience

Project Engineer

Kent, WA · On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

MSc or PhD Degree in Geotechnical Engineering * Minimum 5 years of experience in industry as a ... geotechnical earthquake engineering, and foundations design. * Excellent Writing and Speaking ...

Project Engineer

Kent, WA · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

MSc or PhD Degree in Geotechnical Engineering * Minimum 5 years of experience in industry as a ... geotechnical earthquake engineering, and foundations design. * Excellent Writing and Speaking ...

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Phd Earthquake Engineer information

What is a PhD earthquake engineer?

A PhD Earthquake Engineer is a highly trained professional who specializes in studying and mitigating the effects of earthquakes on buildings, infrastructure, and communities. They typically hold a doctorate in civil, structural, or earthquake engineering and conduct advanced research to improve seismic safety standards and technologies. Their work often includes designing earthquake-resistant structures, analyzing seismic data, and developing new materials or construction techniques to withstand seismic events. Many also contribute to public policy or teach at universities, helping to advance the field and protect society from earthquake hazards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PhD earthquake engineer?

To thrive as a PhD Earthquake Engineer, you need advanced knowledge in structural engineering, seismic analysis, and a doctoral degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with modeling software such as SAP2000 or ETABS, proficiency in data analysis, and sometimes professional engineering licensure are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate complex technical concepts to diverse audiences are vital soft skills. These competencies ensure that structures are designed for earthquake resilience, meet safety standards, and research findings are effectively translated into practice.

What are some common interdisciplinary collaborations for a PhD earthquake engineer, and how do they impact daily work?

PhD Earthquake Engineers often collaborate closely with professionals in structural engineering, geology, urban planning, and emergency management. These collaborations are vital for developing comprehensive solutions that address both the scientific and practical aspects of earthquake risk mitigation. On a daily basis, this means participating in cross-disciplinary meetings, sharing research findings, and integrating insights from various fields to inform building codes, design resilient infrastructure, and improve disaster preparedness strategies. Such teamwork not only broadens your perspective but also enhances the real-world impact of your work.

What is the difference between Phd Earthquake Engineer vs Geotechnical Engineer?

AspectPhd Earthquake EngineerGeotechnical Engineer
Required CredentialsPhD in Earthquake Engineering, advanced research experienceBachelor's or Master's in Civil or Geotechnical Engineering, Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferred
Work EnvironmentResearch institutions, universities, specialized consulting firmsConstruction sites, consulting firms, government agencies
Industry UsageFocus on seismic risk analysis, earthquake-resistant design, researchSoil stability, foundation design, site investigations

While both roles involve geotechnical principles, a Phd Earthquake Engineer specializes in seismic risk and earthquake-resistant structures, often in research or academic settings. In contrast, a Geotechnical Engineer focuses on soil and foundation stability in construction projects. The two careers overlap in geotechnical knowledge but differ in focus and work environment.

What are popular job titles related to Phd Earthquake Engineer jobs?

For Phd Earthquake Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Phd Earthquake Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Geotechnical Practice Leader - Earthquake Engineering

Los Angeles, CA

langan
Civil Engineering Construction

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


Langan rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Langan provides expert land development engineering and environmental consulting services for major developers, renewable energy producers, energy companies, corporations, healthcare systems, colleges/universities, and large infrastructure programs throughout the U.S. and around the world. Our employees collaborate seamlessly among 40+ offices and gain valuable hands-on experience that fosters career growth. Langan culture is entrepreneurial from advancing innovative technical solutions, to participating in robust training and knowledge sharing, to making progressive change within the communities we live and work.

Consistently ranked among the top ten "Best Firms to Work For" and Engineering News-Record's top 50 firms worldwide, Langan attracts and retains the best talent in the industry. Employees thrive at Langan, a firm that fosters an inclusive and supportive work environment for all; prioritizes wellbeing, health, and safety; encourages volunteerism and philanthropy; offers workplace flexibility, along with carbon-neutral office spaces; and empowers individuals to contribute their skills and knowledge to make impactful contributions.

Job Summary

Langan is seeking a Geotechnical Practice Leader - Earthquake Engineering to join its collaborative team in San Francisco Bay area (Langan is also open to this position in Los Angeles or Irvine offices). This individual will serve as a subject matter expert in Earthquake Engineering in our Geotechnical division while managing client interaction, developing business, providing staff training and project leadership, developing geotechnical design criteria for foundations, retaining structures, etc., preparation of technical reports, specifications, plans and directing geotechnical services during construction. In this role, you will have the opportunity to partner cross-functionally with top industry leadership in driving the continued growth and success of Langan's Geotechnical practice with a specialization in Earthquake Engineering. Our team is dedicated to creating safer, more resilient structures that can withstand seismic events.

Job Responsibilities
  • Development of new business through industry and network connections in the seismic engineering market;
  • Involvement in professional organizations within field of expertise;
  • Development of repeat business from existing clients through delivering excellent client services;
  • Mentorship, coaching, and review of work for staff on development of site-specific ground motions;
  • Performance and management of multiple projects and tasks within specific budgets, schedules, and deadlines;
  • Preparation of technical reports, specifications, construction plans, and geotechnical recommendations, working experience with ground motions subspecialty and experience in development of site-specific ground motions;
  • Preparation of proposals, coordinating projects, managing clients and managing billings;
  • Performance of other duties as requested.
Qualifications
  • Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering with a Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or related field, PhD preferred;
  • Professional Engineer licensure;
  • Ability to obtain Geotechnical Engineer licensure;
  • 10+ years related geotechnical experience with ground motions subspecialty and experience in development of site-specific ground motions
  • Experience in the development of site-specific ground motions for performance-based design (PBD) both ergodic and non-ergodic;
  • Experience in Peer review process associated with PBD;
  • Experience in geologic and seismic hazard evaluation;
  • Prior experience with geotechnical investigations and services during construction;
  • Office experience with investigation and field work coordination, geotechnical reports, and specification writing;
  • Prior field experience in: earthwork, shallow and deep foundation construction, load testing, ground improvements, retaining wall design and construction, and excavation support system design and inspection;
  • Desired software knowledge: gINT, Slide/SLOPE/W, PLAXIS, LPILE, GROUP, GRLWEAP, MSEW, SHAKE, DEEPSOIL, EZFRISK, OPENQUAKE, OPENSHA, NSHMP;
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills;
  • Strong attention to detail with excellent analytical, multitasking, and judgment capabilities;
  • Ability to effectively work independently and in a team environment;
  • Possess reliable transportation for client meetings and job site visits and a valid driver's license in good standing. #LI-LP1

Langan provides a rich array of programs and benefits to help its employees advance their careers and enhance the quality of their lives. Our comprehensive compensation package includes: full-time employment company paid medical, dental, and vision coverage; life insurance, short- and long-term disability insurance, and paid pregnancy disability leave; 401(k)/Roth with company match; paid time off including parental and military leave; employee referral and professional license bonuses; and educational reimbursement.

Langan offers employee resource groups; flexible work schedules; extensive training; wellness programs; buddy and mentoring programs; and much more!

Langan is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans. We believe that an inclusive workplace is essential for the well-being and success of our employees.

Certain US jurisdictions require Langan to include an estimate of salary or hourly ranges. The estimated range for this role is: $112,500 - $171,000. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as related work experience, location, market conditions, education/training, certifications and other credentials, as well as applicable knowledge and skills. Certain roles may be eligible for overtime and participation in the firm's annual bonus and performance review program. Bonuses are discretionary and based on individual job performance and the profitability of the firm. Employees are also eligible to receive up to 20 days of paid vacation time, 10 days of paid sick time and 10 paid holidays throughout the year. Eligibility and actual paid time off may vary based on local law and factors such as hours worked, related work experience and level.


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