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Rock Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Researching specific rock engineering and mine closure problems * Field work will include some aspects of surveying, drilling coordination, geotechnical core logging/mapping, and construction ...

Early Career Geotechnical Engineer

Lakewood, CO ยท On-site

$58.20K - $82K/yr

Researching specific rock engineering and mine closure problems * Field work will include some aspects of surveying, drilling coordination, geotechnical core logging/mapping, and construction ...

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Rock Engineering information

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$12

$31

$57

How much do rock engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for rock engineering in the United States is $31.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $37.98 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Rock Engineer, you need a solid background in geology, geotechnical engineering, and rock mechanics, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with specialized software such as Rocscience, AutoCAD, and geotechnical modeling tools, along with professional certifications, is often required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate effectively with multidisciplinary teams are essential soft skills. These competencies ensure the safe and efficient design, analysis, and management of rock structures in mining, civil, and construction projects.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in rock engineering, and how can they be addressed?

Rock engineering professionals often encounter challenges such as unpredictable ground conditions, ensuring the safety and stability of excavations, and adapting designs to varying geological features. These challenges are typically addressed through thorough site investigations, regular monitoring, and the use of advanced modeling software to predict rock behavior. Collaboration with geologists, mining engineers, and construction teams is crucial to develop practical solutions and manage risks effectively. Ongoing professional development and staying updated with the latest industry standards also help rock engineers navigate these challenges successfully.

What is rock engineering?

Rock engineering is a specialized field of engineering that focuses on the study, analysis, and design of structures built in or on rock masses. It involves understanding the mechanical behavior of rock materials and rock masses to ensure the safety and stability of tunnels, mines, slopes, foundations, and other infrastructure projects. Rock engineers assess geological conditions, design support systems, and recommend construction methods to manage risks associated with rock mechanics. This discipline is essential in industries such as mining, civil engineering, and energy.

What is the difference between Rock Engineering vs Geotechnical Engineering?

AspectRock EngineeringGeotechnical Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in geology, mining, or civil engineering; certifications varyBachelor's or higher in civil or geotechnical engineering; PE license often preferred
Work EnvironmentMining sites, tunnels, underground excavations, rock slopesConstruction sites, foundations, soil and rock assessments
Industry UsageMining, tunneling, quarrying, underground constructionConstruction, infrastructure, environmental projects

Rock Engineering focuses on the stability and safety of rock masses in mining and tunneling projects, while Geotechnical Engineering covers a broader range of soil and rock interactions in construction and infrastructure. Both roles require similar credentials but differ in work environments and industry applications.

More about Rock Engineering jobs
What cities are hiring for Rock Engineering jobs? Cities with the most Rock Engineering job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Rock Engineering jobs? The most popular types of Rock Engineering jobs are:
What states have the most Rock Engineering jobs? States with the most job openings for Rock Engineering jobs include:
Infographic showing various Rock Engineering job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $65,624 per year, or $31.6 per hour.
Senior Level Rock Mechanics/Geotechnical Engineer

Senior Level Rock Mechanics/Geotechnical Engineer

Wood Plc

Denver, CO โ€ข On-site

Other

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Overview / Responsibilities

Wood Environment & Infrastructure Solutions has a career opportunity for a Senior Level Rock Mechanics/Geotechnical Engineer to develop, build and support our growing Rock Mechanics Group across both our Mining & Minerals and our Resilient Environments divisions around the globe. The work location is flexible to locations across the United States including but not limited to Salt Lake City, UT, Denver, CO, Phoenix, AZ and Helena, MT.

The Senior Rock Mechanic will be responsible for developing and leading a team, providing expertise and applying rock mechanic principles to surface and underground mine design challenges. Full project scope, from study level to the detailed design and construction with the requirement to liaise with other technical specialists. This is a critical role in our leadership team; as we expand our Underground Mining business and support our strong surface mining activities.

Are you a Senior Rock Mechanics/Geotechnical Engineer who is seeking a leadership role, challenging projects and the opportunity to collaborate with our professionals around the globe?ย  Are you looking for an opportunity to work with an established engineering consulting firm that values its employee's enthusiasm and technical contributions?ย  We encourage you to apply for this opportunity.ย  We are dedicated to providing the atmosphere to allow individuals to grow their career.ย  We offer a varied and interesting diversity of clients and projects. We'd love you to join our team of friendly, hard-working, dedicated and collaborative professionals. Our ideal candidate is seeking challenging work and is committed to quality.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Support underground and open pit mine engineering at various levels from conceptual studies to detailed engineering and closure
  • Provide leadership and mentoring to multi-disciplinary teams
  • Network with staff from other Wood offices and divisions, and participate in cross-sharing of resources; Build strong and enduring relationships between Wood and its clients
  • Oversee:
  • Design of underground mining, stopes, pillars, infrastructure and ground support, using analytical and numerical tools
  • Design of ground support requirements and of backfill requirements
  • Design of open pits, slope stability analysis and determination using analytical and numerical tools
  • Geomechanical site investigation work for underground and open pit mining including laboratory testing
  • NI 43-101 Rock Mechanics Design Reporting
  • Foundation and tunnel design
  • Develop and grow the Rock Mechanics team
  • Assist in marketing our mining capabilities and services, and help expand Wood's presence
  • Assist in hiring and training staff and expand the teams' capabilities
Skills / Qualifications
  • Degree in Mining / Geotechnical Engineering related to rock mechanics.
  • PE is a plus
  • 15 years + relevant experience, including underground or open pit operating mine experience, or underground or surface civil construction; backfill experience
  • Strong experience in mining rock mechanics, rock engineering, investigations, analysis and design
  • Demonstrated experience and leadership in project management, including budget, schedule and deliverable performance
  • Knowledge of mining economics and evaluations
  • Knowledge of civil rock engineering excavations (foundations, tunnels and rock cuts)
  • Knowledge and experience with hydrogeological investigations, analysis and modelling
  • Experience with ground support design, 2D-3D computer modelling skills, including knowledge or proficiency in numerical modelling using boundary element, finite element, finite difference and/or discrete element methods
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, ability to effectively run meetings and communicate clearly and accountably with clients, staff and co-workers
  • Excellent organization/time management skills, a strong work ethic, and the ability to work independently as well as part of a team
  • Must pass drug test, fit-for-duty medical exam, background check, and must have a satisfactory driving record in accordance with the Company's driving (MVR) policy.
Company Overview

Wood is a global leader in engineering and consultancy across energy and the built environment, helping to unlock solutions to some of the world's most critical challenges. We provide consulting, projects and operations solutions in more than 60 countries, employing around 40,000 people. www.woodplc.com

Diversity Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer that recognises the value of a diverse workforce. All suitably qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment on the basis of objective criteria and without regard to the following (which is a non-exhaustive list): race, colour, age, religion, gender, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, or other characteristics in accordance with the relevant governing laws.

Employment Type: OTHER