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Principal Geotechnical Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ECS Ltd

Principal Engineer, Geotechnical

Greensboro, NC · On-site

As a Principal Geotechnical Engineer with ECS you will provides technical leadership for major projects across multiple sectors - public infrastructure, commercial, industrial, mission critical/data ...

ECS Ltd

Principal Geotechnical Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

Responsibilities ECS is hiring a Principal Geotechnical Engineer to join our transportation team in the Southeast. This role provides technical leadership for major infrastructure projects. This ...

ECS Ltd

Principal Engineer, Geotechnical

Lexington, SC · On-site

As a Principal Geotechnical Engineer with ECS you will provides technical leadership for major projects across multiple sectors - public infrastructure, commercial, industrial, mission critical/data ...

ECS Ltd

Principal Geotechnical Engineer

Raleigh, NC

Responsibilities ECS is hiring a Principal Geotechnical Engineer to join our transportation team in the Southeast. This role provides technical leadership for major infrastructure projects. This ...

ECS Ltd

Principal Engineer, Geotechnical

Greensboro, NC · On-site

As a Principal Geotechnical Engineer with ECS you will provides technical leadership for major projects across multiple sectors - public infrastructure, commercial, industrial, mission critical/data ...

ECS Ltd

Principal Geotechnical Engineer

Fort Myers, FL · On-site

Responsibilities ECS is hiring a Principal Geotechnical Engineer in Fort Myers to lead technical delivery, oversee quality control, and contribute to revenue growth across commercial, industrial, and ...

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

Oakland, CA

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 ...

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All JobsPrincipal Geotechnical Jobs

Principal Geotechnical information

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$36.5K

$109.4K

$182K

How much do principal geotechnical jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal geotechnical in the United States is $109,393.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,000.00 and $125,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Principal Geotechnical vs Geotechnical Engineer?

AspectPrincipal GeotechnicalGeotechnical Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a PE license, advanced degrees, and extensive experienceUsually requires a PE license or engineering degree, with less experience needed
Work EnvironmentLeadership roles in consulting firms, overseeing projects and teamsDesign, analysis, and fieldwork on geotechnical projects
ResponsibilitiesProject management, client interaction, technical oversightSite investigations, report writing, design calculations

The main difference between a Principal Geotechnical and a Geotechnical Engineer lies in experience, responsibilities, and leadership. The Principal Geotechnical typically holds a senior position with project oversight and strategic roles, while the Geotechnical Engineer focuses on technical tasks and project execution.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Principal Geotechnical Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Principal Geotechnical Engineer, you need advanced expertise in soil mechanics, foundation engineering, and geotechnical analysis, typically supported by a degree in civil or geotechnical engineering and professional licensure (e.g., PE or CEng). Proficiency in geotechnical software such as PLAXIS, GeoStudio, and AutoCAD, as well as familiarity with relevant industry standards and codes, is essential. Strong leadership, client management, and communication skills set top professionals apart in this role. These skills ensure the delivery of safe, innovative, and cost-effective solutions for complex infrastructure projects while managing teams and client expectations.

What are Principal Geotechnical Engineers?

Principal Geotechnical Engineers are senior professionals who specialize in the study and analysis of soil, rock, and earth materials to assess risks and design foundations for construction projects. They lead geotechnical investigations, oversee teams, and provide expert advice on projects such as buildings, bridges, dams, and tunnels. Their responsibilities often include project management, client liaison, technical review, and ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations. With extensive experience, they play a key role in solving complex geotechnical challenges and guiding junior engineers.

What opportunities for career advancement are available to a Principal Geotechnical Engineer within a typical engineering consultancy?

As a Principal Geotechnical Engineer, you have several paths for career advancement, including moving into senior leadership roles such as Technical Director, Practice Leader, or even executive management positions. You may also take on responsibilities for business development, mentoring junior staff, or leading multidisciplinary project teams. Many firms encourage Principals to contribute to thought leadership by publishing papers, presenting at conferences, and participating in professional organizations, further enhancing your professional profile and influence within the industry.
More about Principal Geotechnical jobs
What states have the most Principal Geotechnical jobs? States with the most job openings for Principal Geotechnical jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Principal Geotechnical jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Principal Geotechnical jobs are:
Principal Geotechnical jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Geotechnical job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,393 per year, or $52.6 per hour.
Principal Engineer, Geotechnical

Principal Engineer, Geotechnical

ECS Ltd

Greensboro, NC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Responsibilities
ECS is hiring a Principal Geotechnical Engineer to join our team in Greensboro, NC! As a Principal Geotechnical Engineer with ECS you will provides technical leadership for major projects across multiple sectors - public infrastructure, commercial, industrial, mission critical/data center and much more.
Combining technical excellence with mentorship and business development. You will lead a multidisciplinary team of field staff, engineers, and scientists while serving as a primary technical authority for the region.
Key Responsibilities
  • Serve as the final technical reviewer and signatory for geotechnical reports, designs, plans and analysis. Ensuring 100% accuracy of designs and project deliverables.
  • Oversee the development of geotechnical engineering reports and design packages, providing technical seal and signature as the Engineer of Record.
  • Provide technical expertise for geotechnical staff across the branch and region, focusing on various local, regional, and state regulations.
  • Mentor junior and mid-level engineers, technicians, designers, and project managers to support professional growth and internal promotion.
  • Lead complex engineering designs for slope stability, shallow and deep foundations, retaining structures, and settlement evaluations.
  • Direct project managers on field exploration activities, including drilling, test pits, and site inspections.
  • Drive business development by attending client meetings and identifying growth opportunities to expand our transportation portfolio.
  • Collaborate with the Associate Principal review committee to identify and mentor future leadership candidates.

Qualifications
Basic Qualifications
  • 12 or more years of experience in geotechnical and transportation engineering.
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Civil Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, Geological Engineering, or a related field.
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license is required; Professional Geologist (PG) license may be acceptable depending on state requirements.
  • Documented expertise in DOT Geotechnical Design Manual (GDM) and AASHTO LRFD specifications.
  • Proficiency in MicroStation, OpenRoads or similar programs for infrastructure and highway design projects.
  • Proven track record of serving as a senior technical reviewer at a previous engineering firm.
  • Valid driver's license for travel to project sites and client meetings.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Utilize specialized software including gINT, LPile, APile, MSEW, FB-Pier, and GRLWEAP to deliver innovative design solutions.
  • Experience managing 3 or more large-scale transportation projects simultaneously.
  • Active participation in industry organizations such as ASCE, ACEC, or specialized geotechnical institutes.

About Us
ECS Group of Companies (ECS) was founded in 1988 with the goal to raise the standards of professional engineering consulting. Today, we are a leader in geotechnical, construction materials, environmental and facilities consulting services. We are employee-owned with more than 3,000 employees in 100+ offices and testing facilities coast to coast. ECS is currently ranked #60 in Engineering News-Record's Top 500 Design Firms (April 2026), #148 in Engineering News-Record's Top 200 Environmental Firms (October 2025) and #50 in Zweig Group's Hot Firm List (May 2025). For additional information about ECS, visit: www.ecslimited.com.
ECS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. To learn more, click here.

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