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Phd Position Geotechnical Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Parsons

OR · On-site

Advanced degree (Master's or PhD) in Geotechnical, Geological, or Civil Engineering is considered ... None This position is part of our Critical Infrastructure team. For more than 80 years, our experts ...

Geoengineers Inc

Senior Geotechnical Engineer

San Diego, CA · 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 ...

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How much do phd position geotechnical jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 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 some common challenges faced during a PhD in Geotechnical Engineering, and how can candidates effectively 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, and why are they important?

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 are PhD positions 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:
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Phd Position Geotechnical jobs near you
Infographic showing various Phd Position Geotechnical job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $107,595 per year, or $51.7 per hour.
Geotechnical Engineer - Levee Lead (Principal-Level)

Geotechnical Engineer - Levee Lead (Principal-Level)

Shannon & Wilson, Inc.

Concord, CA • On-site

$165K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 hours ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Shannon & Wilson is an employee-owned consulting firm headquartered in Seattle, Washington. Committed to technical excellence and high-quality service, we provide integrated geotechnical engineering, engineering geology, environmental and natural resource services for clients worldwide. Since 1954, we have delivered comprehensive engineering and environmental solutions for some of the most challenging infrastructure planning, design, permitting and construction conditions.
As employee owners, we are dedicated to improving our communities, preserving the environment and utilizing innovative science practices in our work.
Job Summary
Our Bay Area office is looking for a principal geotechnical engineer with specific experience in levee design and construction to support our strong backlog of work. The candidate should be familiar with USACE design criteria and the Urban Levee Design Criteria. This role will focus on classical geotechnical engineering including site characterization, soil mechanics, seepage and stability analyses, earth retention structures, seismic assessment, shallow and deep foundations, and soft ground construction. Projects include upgrading existing levees in the Delta and the Central Valley; wetlands restoration; heavy industrial foundations; municipal roads, bridges and sewers; slope stabilization; and commercial and institutional buildings.
Responsibilities:
  • Serve as the geotechnical technical authority, providing peer review, quality oversight, and sign-off on geotechnical deliverables.
  • Manage all phases of technical engineering projects, provide guidance to the engineering teams working on projects, and assure successful achievement of project goals.
  • Lead proposal development to include: project scoping; fee estimating; and review and negotiate of contracts.
  • Build and maintain client relationships; serve as a trusted adviser on geotechnical issues; resolve client conflicts and concerns.
  • Oversee quality control, conduct engineering studies and investigations, and prepare and review design reports, progress reports, and project completion reports for company management.
  • Contribute to strategic growth initiatives, market positioning, and technical capability development.
  • Conduct and supervise analyses, studies and calculations (e.g., finite element modeling, seismic response, settlement modeling, slope stability, seepage).
  • Mentor and develop junior and mid-level geotechnical engineers and may supervise a team of engineers.
  • Lead or support recruitment and talent development for geotechnical teams.
  • Review operational procedures to ensure compliance with applicable policies and performance measures.
  • Keeps abreast of industry trends and issues.
  • Assist in committee work to support strategic goals of the company.
  • Follow Shannon & Wilson's Quality Assurance policy.
  • Follow and promote Shannon and Wilson's Health and Safety and Loss Prevention policies.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by your supervisor.

Requirements
  • Bachelor's or master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or related field (PhD preferred for highly technical roles).
  • Professional Engineering (PE) License in California.
  • Geotechnical Engineering (GE) License in California is preferred.
  • 20+ years of experience as a Geotechnical Engineer.
  • Demonstrated history leading large, infrastructure projects.
  • Experience with advanced geotechnical modeling software.
  • Proven experience in leadership, project management, and client management.
  • Strong technical writing and communication abilities.
  • High proficiency in interpreting geological and geotechnical data.
  • Strong decision-making and risk-assessment skills.
  • Ability to work collaboratively across disciplines and lead diverse teams.
  • The willingness and ability to travel to support the needs of other Shannon & Wilson offices.
  • A valid driver license and insurable driving record.
  • The ability to travel (drive or fly) to field sites per project needs and job sites locally and out of state.
  • Frequent sitting, standing, walking, bending, lifting, and carrying 30+ pounds.
  • Working in all weather conditions on uneven terrain.

Level Placement
Typically, depending on an applicant's education, experience, other qualifications they possess, if they are a fit for the company and local office culture, and the current business needs, a Principal-Level Geotechnical Engineer would be placed at a Shannon & Wilson Associate Vice President or Vice President.
Compensation:
Associate Vice President: $165,000 - $235,000
Vice President: $175,000 - $250,000
Shannon & Wilson is committed to providing a comprehensive total rewards package that includes the following benefits:
  • Employee stock ownership
  • Medical, prescription, vision, dental, long-term care and life insurance plans are offered to employees (and their families).
  • Pre-tax health and daycare FSA
  • Profit sharing and 401(k) plans with annual safe-harbor contributions
  • 10 - 20 paid vacation days per year for full-time employees, based on years of experience (prorated for part-time employment)
  • Sick leave accrues based on state requirements
  • 9 paid holidays per year + 1 personal holiday
  • Paid volunteer day
  • Paid time off for bereavement and jury duty
  • Two weeks of paid parental leave
  • Lunch & Live wellness webinars and an Employee Assistance Program
  • Mentorship Program
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Free parking

Shannon & Wilson is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Shannon & Wilson participates in the E-Verify program.
Please note that non-solicited resumes from external recruitment agencies will not be considered as introductions to our business, unless a preapproved agreement is in place and the external recruitment agency has been engaged to work on this specific vacancy.
Salary Description
$165,000 - $250,000 annual salary

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