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Principal Engineering Geologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Principal Engineer

Roseville, CA · On-site

$126.50 - $158.10/hr

Principal Engineer Department: Geotechnical Employment Type: Full Time Location: Roseville, CA ... Bachelor in Engineering (BS) in Civil Engineering/Geology. * Master's degree (MS) in Geotechnical ...

Principal Engineer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$126K - $158K/yr

Principal Engineer Department: Geotechnical Employment Type: Full Time Location: Sacramento, CA ... Bachelor in Engineering (BS) in Civil Engineering/Geology. * Master's degree (MS) in Geotechnical ...

Principal Engineer

Roseville, CA · On-site

$126K - $158K/yr

Principal Engineer Department: Geotechnical Employment Type: Full Time Location: Roseville, CA ... Bachelor in Engineering (BS) in Civil Engineering/Geology. * Master's degree (MS) in Geotechnical ...

A day in the life as a Wood Rodgers' Principal Engineer * Develop and maintain internal and ... Bachelor in Engineering (BS) in Civil Engineering/Geology. * Master's degree (MS) in Geotechnical ...

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Principal Engineering Geologist information

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$74K

$147.2K

$212.5K

How much do principal engineering geologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal engineering geologist in the United States is $147,220.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a principal engineering geologist?

Principal Engineering Geologists are highly experienced professionals who assess geological factors that can impact engineering projects such as tunnels, dams, buildings, and roads. They analyze soil, rock, groundwater, and other earth materials to provide recommendations for safe and effective construction. Their role often involves leading teams, managing projects, and ensuring compliance with regulations, while also liaising with clients and other engineers. Principal Engineering Geologists play a critical part in minimizing geological risks and ensuring sustainable development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a principal engineering geologist?

To thrive as a Principal Engineering Geologist, you need advanced expertise in geology, geotechnical analysis, and risk assessment, typically supported by a relevant degree and significant field experience. Proficiency with geotechnical software such as PLAXIS, GIS systems, and experience with site investigation techniques and reporting standards is essential. Strong leadership, communication, and project management skills distinguish top performers by enabling effective collaboration and client interactions. These competencies are crucial for ensuring the safety, compliance, and success of complex engineering projects involving ground conditions and environmental risks.

How does a principal engineering geologist typically collaborate with multidisciplinary teams on large infrastructure projects?

A Principal Engineering Geologist works closely with civil engineers, environmental scientists, project managers, and contractors to assess site conditions and advise on ground-related risks. They often lead geotechnical investigations, interpret data, and present findings to ensure that geological factors are fully integrated into design and construction plans. Effective communication and coordination are crucial, as their recommendations can directly impact project safety, cost, and timelines. Regular meetings and site visits are common, ensuring that all stakeholders remain informed and aligned throughout the project.

What is the difference between Principal Engineering Geologist vs Geotechnical Engineer?

AspectPrincipal Engineering GeologistGeotechnical Engineer
CredentialsGeology degree, professional geology license, advanced certificationsGeotechnical engineering degree, engineering license, certifications in geotechnical analysis
Work EnvironmentField investigations, site assessments, geological mappingLaboratory testing, design of foundations, slope stability analysis
Industry UsageMining, environmental consulting, natural resource explorationConstruction, infrastructure projects, civil engineering firms

The Principal Engineering Geologist primarily focuses on geological assessments, site investigations, and environmental considerations, often working in natural resource and environmental sectors. In contrast, Geotechnical Engineers concentrate on soil and rock mechanics to design foundations and support structures. Both roles require specialized credentials and are vital in construction and environmental projects, but they differ in their core expertise and typical work environments.

More about Principal Engineering Geologist jobs

What states have the most Principal Engineering Geologist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Principal Engineering Geologist jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Principal Engineering Geologist jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Principal Engineering Geologist jobs are:

Infographic showing various Principal Engineering Geologist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,220 per year, or $70.8 per hour.

Principal Engineering Technician (NY HELPS)

New York State

Albany, NY • On-site

$59K - $76K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


New York State rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 188 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 50 rated states


Job description

Duties Description Duties Description: Principal Engineering Technicians in the Construction Group perform complex civil engineering technical support activities for engineering projects and programs. This includes inspecting portions of major construction and rehabilitation projects, serving as Engineer-in-Charge on small construction projects, serving as an office engineer on larger construction projects, planning and designing small construction and rehabilitation projects, reviewing the technical accuracy of plans and documentation in contracts and proposals, preparing cost estimates of materials and supplies for projects, and supervising/training subordinate technicians. As a Principal Engineering Technician in Region One Construction, the candidate would be assigned to field inspection.

Overnight stay, night work and weekend work may be required. Responsibilities may include serving a role within the Incident Command System to support the department's response to regional and statewide emergency situations. Minimum Qualifications Minimum Qualifications: This title is part of the New York Hiring for Emergency Limited Placement Statewide Program (NY HELPS).* To be considered for appointment through NY HELPS, or 55 b/c, candidates must meet the minimum qualifications for this position

The qualifications are: Promotional: One year of permanent competitive or 55-b/55-c service as an Engineering Geologist, Engineering Materials Analyst, Environmental Engineering Technician 2, Senior Drafting Technician (all parenthetics), Senior Engineering Technician, or Senior Engineering Technician (Soils). Open Competitive: Either 1. FOUR years of experience assisting in engineering or engineering technology, engineering management technology, architecture or architectural technology, environmental technology, landscape architecture/design, materials laboratory technology, drafting or surveying, AND graduation from high school or possession of a diploma issued by a recognized educational authority; Or 2.

an associate's degree in mathematics, physical science, geology, engineering or engineering technology, engineering management technology, architecture or architectural technology, construction technology, landscape architecture/design, environmental technology, drafting, forestry, surveying, aeronautics, electronics, or electronics technology AND TWO years of experience listed above in number 1; Or 3. a bachelor's degree in mathematics, physical science, geology, engineering or engineering technology, engineering management technology, architecture or architectural technology, construction technology, landscape architecture/design, environmental technology, drafting, forestry, surveying, aeronautics, electronics, or electronics technology. Candidates may also be qualified for permanent competitive appointment if reachable from the appropriate Civil Service eligible list or eligible for reassignment or transfer in accordance with Civil Service Law.

If there are three or fewer qualified candidates interested in appointment to this position, a permanent appointment may be made pursuant to Section 52.7 of the Civil Service Law. To be eligible, candidates must be an employee of the Department of Transportation and have one year of permanent competitive service as a Senior Engineering Technician, SG-13. Additional Comments Additional Information Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis

*For the duration of the NY HELPS Program, this title may be filled via a non-competitive appointment, which means no examination is required but all candidates must meet the minimum qualifications of the title for which they apply. At a future date, it is expected employees hired under NY HELPS will have their non-competitive employment status converted to competitive status, without having to compete in an examination. Employees will then be afforded with all of the same rights and privileges of competitive class employees of New York State.

While serving permanently in an NY HELPS title, employees may take part in any promotion examination for which they are qualified. Your required educational credentials must have been awarded by an educational institution accredited by a regional, national, or specialized agency recognized as an accrediting agency by the United States (U.S.) Department of Education/Secretary of Education. If awarded by an institution outside of the U.S

and its territories, you must provide independent verification of equivalency. A list of companies that provide these services (fees must be paid to the company you choose) can be found at: http://www.cs.ny.gov/jobseeker/degrees.cfmt The salary range listed reflects the full range for this graded position. For new State employees appointed into graded positions, the annual salary is the hiring rate (beginning of the Salary Range) of the position

Promotion salaries are calculated by the NYS Office of the State Comptroller in accordance with NYS Civil Service Law, OSC Payroll rules and regulations and negotiated union contracts. For more salary information please visit https://oer.ny.gov/salary-schedules DOT is an equal opportunity employer. Disabled persons are encouraged to apply

In compliance with Public Law 99-603, candidates selected for appointment must provide an original document to prove their citizenship and/or legal right to work in the United States. Candidates for employment must have proper authorization to work in the United States at the time an offer of employment is made. The Department will not sponsor a nonimmigrant for a temporary employment visa (H-1B or similar), OPT STEM, or for permanent residence.

Offers of permanent employment may not be made to nonimmigrants whose employment authorization is limited to a period of practical training (F-1 or similar). Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.


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