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Phd Position Geotechnical Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Master's degree or a PhD in Geotechnical Engineering preferred. * 6+ years of experience with ... Our best estimate of the salary range for this position, located in Seattle, Redmond, WA, or San ...

Senior Geotechnical Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site +1

$117K - $176K/yr

Master's degree or a PhD in Geotechnical Engineering preferred. * 6+ years of experience with ... Our best estimate of the salary range for this position, located in Seattle, Redmond, WA, or San ...

Responsibilities for this position include but are not limited to: * Project management - tracking ... Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering, with a Master's degree or PhD in Civil Engineering strongly ...

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Phd Position Geotechnical information

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$34.5K

$107.6K

$172K

How much do phd position geotechnical jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for phd position geotechnical in the United States is $107,595.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,000.00 and $130,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are common challenges faced during a PhD in geotechnical engineering, and how can candidates address them?

PhD candidates in Geotechnical Engineering often encounter challenges such as designing feasible research experiments, interpreting complex soil behavior, and managing large datasets. Collaboration with advisors and peers is crucial for overcoming technical obstacles, while regular progress reviews help keep research on track. Additionally, balancing laboratory work, field studies, and academic writing requires strong organizational skills. Engaging with the broader geotechnical research community through conferences and seminars can also provide valuable support and feedback.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PhD candidate in geotechnical engineering?

To thrive as a PhD candidate in Geotechnical Engineering, you generally need a strong background in civil or geotechnical engineering, with a relevant master's degree and solid research skills. Familiarity with geotechnical analysis software (such as PLAXIS or GeoStudio), laboratory testing methods, and sometimes programming languages like MATLAB or Python is often required. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and perseverance distinguish outstanding candidates in this field. These skills are crucial for conducting innovative research, publishing results, and contributing to advances in geotechnical engineering practice.

What is a PhD position in geotechnical engineering?

PhD positions in Geotechnical Engineering are research-focused doctoral roles typically offered by universities or research institutes. Candidates in these positions work on advanced topics such as soil mechanics, foundation engineering, or ground improvement techniques, often contributing to innovative solutions for civil engineering challenges. These positions involve conducting independent research, publishing findings, and often assisting with teaching or laboratory work. Applicants usually need a strong background in civil or geotechnical engineering, and the positions are usually funded through scholarships, stipends, or research grants.
More about Phd Position Geotechnical jobs
What cities are hiring for Phd Position Geotechnical jobs? Cities with the most Phd Position Geotechnical job openings:
What states have the most Phd Position Geotechnical jobs? States with the most job openings for Phd Position Geotechnical jobs include:
Infographic showing various Phd Position Geotechnical job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $107,595 per year, or $51.7 per hour.

Geotechnical Practice Leader - Earthquake Engineering

langan

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Langan rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 441 rated engineering


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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