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Principal Geotechnical Engineer Jobs in Colorado

Tetra Tech

Principal Geotechnical Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

Tetra Techis adding a Principal Geotechnical Engineer to ourteam basedin Denver, CO. Why Tetra Tech: At Tetra Tech, we are Leading with Science to solve the world's most complex challenges.Our ...

Atlas

Principal Geotechnical Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

At Atlas, we're providing services that enable communities to flourish and thrive, and if you're a Principal Geotechnical Engineer ready to provide technical leadership for geotechnical ...

Atlas

Principal Geotechnical Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

At Atlas, we're providing services that enable communities to flourish and thrive, and if you're a Principal Geotechnical Engineer ready to provide technical leadership for geotechnical ...

Atlas

Principal Geotechnical Engineer

Denver, CO

At Atlas, we're providing services that enable communities to flourish and thrive, and if you're a Principal Geotechnical Engineer ready to provide technical leadership for geotechnical ...

Atlas

Principal Geotechnical Engineer

Lakewood, CO · On-site

At Atlas, we're providing services that enable communities to flourish and thrive, and if you're a Principal Geotechnical Engineer ready to provide technical leadership for geotechnical ...

Atlas

Principal Geotechnical Engineer

Denver, CO

At Atlas, we're providing services that enable communities to flourish and thrive, and if you're a Principal Geotechnical Engineer ready to provide technical leadership for geotechnical ...

Wje

Geotechnical Engineer | 20+ Years

Denver, CO · On-site

Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc. (WJE) is seeking an industry-leading, Associate Principal or Principal Geotechnical Engineer to be an integral part of expanding and developing our geotechnical ...

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All JobsPrincipal Geotechnical Engineer JobsPrincipal Geotechnical Engineer Jobs in Colorado

Principal Geotechnical Engineer information

See Colorado salary details

$42.1K

$97.7K

$155.1K

How much do principal geotechnical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal geotechnical engineer in Colorado is $97,655.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,700.00 and $114,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a principal geotechnical engineer?

A Principal Geotechnical Engineer is a highly experienced professional who leads and manages complex geotechnical engineering projects, typically for infrastructure and construction developments. They are responsible for overseeing site investigations, analyzing soil and rock properties, providing technical guidance, and ensuring that designs meet safety and regulatory standards. Additionally, they mentor junior staff, liaise with clients, and contribute to strategic decision-making within their organization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a principal geotechnical engineer?

To thrive as a Principal Geotechnical Engineer, you need advanced knowledge in soil mechanics, foundation engineering, and project management, typically supported by a degree in civil or geotechnical engineering and a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Familiarity with geotechnical modeling software (such as PLAXIS or GeoStudio), site investigation techniques, and relevant codes and standards is essential. Leadership, client communication, and problem-solving skills help distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies ensure successful delivery of complex projects, effective team management, and safe, reliable engineering solutions.

How does a principal geotechnical engineer typically collaborate with multidisciplinary teams on large infrastructure projects?

As a Principal Geotechnical Engineer, you will frequently work alongside structural, civil, and environmental engineers, as well as project managers and clients, to provide geotechnical expertise during project planning and execution. This role involves leading site investigations, interpreting soil and rock data, and presenting findings to inform design decisions. Effective collaboration requires strong communication skills, as you'll coordinate geotechnical recommendations with other disciplines to ensure project safety, feasibility, and compliance with regulations. You'll also mentor junior engineers and contribute to technical reviews, making teamwork a central part of your daily responsibilities.

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

AspectPrincipal Geotechnical EngineerGeotechnical Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a PE license, advanced degrees, and extensive experienceUsually requires a bachelor's degree in geotechnical engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentLeads projects, manages teams, and interacts with clientsPerforms technical analysis, site assessments, and report writing
Industry UsageUsed in senior technical and leadership roles within engineering firmsEntry to mid-level roles focused on technical tasks

The Principal Geotechnical Engineer holds a senior leadership position, overseeing projects and teams, while the Geotechnical Engineer focuses on technical analysis and site investigations. Both roles require relevant credentials, but the principal role involves more management and client interaction.

How much does a principal geotechnical engineer make in the US?

A principal geotechnical engineer in the US typically earns between $100,000 and $150,000 annually, with salaries varying based on experience, location, and industry. They often hold advanced certifications and have extensive project management responsibilities.

What are popular job titles related to Principal Geotechnical Engineer jobs in Colorado?

For Principal Geotechnical Engineer jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Principal Geotechnical Engineer jobs in Colorado look for?

The top searched job categories for Principal Geotechnical Engineer jobs in Colorado are:

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Principal Geotechnical Engineer jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Principal Geotechnical Engineer job openings:

Principal Geotechnical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Geotechnical Engineer job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,655 per year, or $46.9 per hour.

Principal Geotechnical Engineer

Tetra Tech, Inc.

Denver, CO • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Tetra Tech rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

404th of 450 rated engineering

Job description

The Opportunity:
Tetra Techis adding a Principal Geotechnical Engineerto ourteam basedin Denver, CO.
Why Tetra Tech:
At Tetra Tech, we areLeading with Scienceto solve the world's most complex challenges.Our industry-leading expertsin engineering and consultingare committed to driving positive change in communities around the world.For 60 years, wehavebeen at the forefront of innovation and sustainability.Today we stand as a market leader, offeringcutting-edgesolutions in water, environment, energy, and international development.Our work has improved more than625million lives around the world.
Your Impact:
Join Tetra Tech to make a real difference.Our workleveragescutting-edgetechnologies, advanced analytics, and theexpertiseof world-class scientists and engineers to create meaningful change around the world. Join our focused dam and reservoir practice in Denver to discover your full potential - join us to advance your career while leavinga lasting legacy. This office is leading solutions to critical water-rights issues within the State of Colorado. A true opportunity to be part of dam design and construction.
Position Summary:
We are seeking a Principal Geotechnical Engineer with expertise in dams and water-resources infrastructure to lead our geotechnical practice. In this senior technical role, you will work within our multi-disciplinary team supporting dams, reservoirs, and water-resources projects for federal, municipal, and state clients. Responsibilities include leading technical planning, design, analysis, investigations, construction support, and project oversight for new and existing dams. As the technical lead, you will lead and mentor a team of geotechnical engineers, develop creative solutions, and ensure high-quality delivery of projects. There is room for significant career growth in this position, depending on your passion and expertise.
Essential Job Functions:
The following duties are essential to this role. Reasonable accommodation will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions:
  • Lead and mentor a team of junior and mid-level geotechnical engineers, providing technical guidance, performance feedback, and professional development.

  • Supervise, plan, and perform geotechnical engineering investigations and analyses for dams, reservoirs, water-supply systems, and related civil works projects.

  • Oversee subsurface exploration programs, review boring logs, laboratory data, and geophysical survey results, and assign project-specific testing to support design and reporting.

  • Perform foundation design, seepage evaluations, slope-stability, fill-placement/ground-improvement, and seismic analyses; develop and approve geotechnical design solutions.

  • Direct and execute dam safety evaluations, including FERC Part 12, PFMA, risk assessments, and dam risk management activities.

  • Develop and review design drawings, specifications, and geotechnical reports, ensuring technical accuracy, clarity, and compliance with regulations and standards.

  • Create and implement quality assurance/quality control procedures for design and construction phases; verify field work meets contract and safety requirements.

  • Design and evaluate corrective measures for major geotechnical failures (landslides, seepage, foundation issues, channel failures, subsidence) with cost-effective, safety-focused solutions.

  • Conduct site visits and construction observations to confirm work conforms to design and safety requirements and to resolve field technical issues.

  • Support business development and practice growth by contributing to client pursuit planning, proposal preparation, and identifying strategic opportunities to expand dam and geotechnical services.

  • Promote a culture of safety, continuing education, and technical innovation within the practice.

RequiredQualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in civil engineering, geological engineering, or related field.

  • An active Professional Engineer (PE) certification in Colorado (or the ability to gain licensure in Colorado within six months of hire).

  • A minimum of 15 years of geotechnical engineering experience with a keen understanding of civil engineering principles of earthen embankment and dam designs, levees and water retaining structures.

  • Demonstrated leadership and mentoring experience supervising junior and mid-level engineers and managing technical teams and projects.

  • Demonstrated expertise in dam safety and risk programs, including experience with FERC Part 12 inspections, PFMA/risk assessments, and dam risk management processes.

  • Technical proficiency in geotechnical design and analysis methods (foundation design, seepage, slope stability, ground improvement, seismic analysis).

  • Construction experience and ability to troubleshoot issues in the field.

  • Working knowledge of AutoCAD.

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (i.e., Excel, Word, PowerPoint) for documentation and communication.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master's degree in geotechnical engineering.

  • Prior consulting experience with client-facing responsibilities.

  • Proficiency and working knowledge of computer modelling software such as GeoStudio, LPile, gINT, OpenGround and/or FLAC is a plus.

Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to travel to project sites (local & remote) for site investigations as needed. Travel is estimated to be up to 25% yearly (occasional overnight travel).

  • Ability to stand or walk for long periods during site visits, including the ability to kneel, crouch, or stoop when inspecting sites.

  • Ability to lift and carry materials/equipment up to 25 pounds.

  • Willingness and ability to work outdoors in a range of weather conditions (heat, rain, wind, cold) for extended periods of time.

  • Ability to sit at a workstation and use a computer for extended periods of time (up to 8 hours/day). Additional hours may be required based on project needs.

  • Manual dexterity to use a computer mouse, keyboard, and other tools.

  • Visual acuity to read and interpret detailed drawings and technical documents.

  • Ability to communicate effectively in-person and via electronic means.

Additional Information:
  • This position is based in our Denver, CO office on a hybrid schedule, typically in the office 3 days/week.

  • This position is scheduled for full-time work (40 hours/week) with a typical schedule of 8:00am to 5:00pm Monday to Friday. Additional hours may be required based on project needs.

  • Regular travel for field visits.

The salary range for this position is $150,000 - $190,000. Compensation may vary and is not limited to the stated range; offers will be determined based on a combination of an individual's experience, skill set, certifications, and educational background.
Life at Tetra Tech:
Theperksof working at Tetra Tech include:
  • Comprehensive and market-competitivebenefits.

  • Merit-based financial rewards.

  • Flexibility and company-wide commitment to work/life balance.

  • Collaborative team atmosphere that values the contributions of all employees.

  • Learning and development opportunitiesfor ongoingprofessional growth.

About Tetra Tech:
Tetra Tech is the leader in water, environment, and sustainable infrastructure, providing high-end consulting and engineering services for projects worldwide. With 30,000 employees working together, Tetra Tech provides clear solutions to complex problems by Leading with Science® to address the entire water cycle, protect and restore the environment, design sustainable and resilient infrastructure, and support the clean energy transition.
Tetra Techis proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, marital or familial status, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law. Tetra Tech is a VEVRAA federal contractor and we request priority referral of veterans.
We invite applications from all interested parties.
Explore our open positions at https://www.tetratech.com/careers. Follow us on social media to learn more about our people, culture, and opportunities:
LinkedIn: @TetraTechCareers
X (Twitter): @TetraTechJobs

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About Tetra Tech

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Tetra Tech combines the resources of a global, multibillion-dollar company with local, client-focused delivery in more than 450 locations around the world. Our reputation rests on the technical expertise and dedication of our employees-21,000 associates working together to provide smart, scalable solutions for challenging projects. We are proud to be home to leading technical experts in water, environment, infrastructure, resource management, energy, and international development.

Industry

Civil engineering construction and environmental consulting services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Pasadena, CA, US

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