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Seismic Engineer Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking a Principal Design Engineer to own the full-lifecycle engineering design of our ... and seismic/wind load calculations. * Safety Mastery: Expert knowledge of electrical safety ...

We are seeking a Principal Design Engineer to own the full-lifecycle engineering design of our ... and seismic/wind load calculations. * Safety Mastery: Expert knowledge of electrical safety ...

Sr Structural Project Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$103K - $140K/yr

HOK is seeking a Senior Structural Project Engineer to lead the successful delivery of large ... Demonstrated seismic design experience through construction. #LI-SK1 Many of our roles require the ...

Senior Structural Engineer

Lakewood, CO · On-site

$115K - $140K/yr

Senior Structural Engineer Job Summary: Our office in Lakewood, CO is looking for a Senior ... Seismic design categories D, E and F * Extreme wind loading * Blast-resistant structures * Flood ...

Showing results 41-60

Seismic Engineer information

See Colorado salary details

$28.7K

$96.1K

$168.5K

How much do seismic engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for seismic engineer in Colorado is $96,109.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,247.00 and $120,020.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a seismic engineer?

Seismic engineers are professionals who specialize in designing and analyzing structures to withstand the effects of earthquakes and other seismic activities. They use principles of civil and structural engineering, combined with knowledge of geology and seismology, to ensure buildings, bridges, and infrastructure are safe and resilient. Their work includes assessing seismic risks, developing earthquake-resistant designs, and implementing safety standards to protect lives and property. Seismic engineers often work closely with architects, construction teams, and government agencies to ensure compliance with building codes and regulations.

What is the difference between Seismic Engineer vs Structural Engineer?

AspectSeismic EngineerStructural Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, seismic design certificationsEngineering degree, structural design certifications
Work EnvironmentFocus on earthquake-resistant design, analysis of seismic risksDesign and analyze various structural systems for buildings and infrastructure
Industry UsageSpecialized in seismic safety, earthquake engineeringBroadly involved in all structural projects

Seismic Engineers specialize in earthquake-resistant design and seismic risk assessment, focusing on structures' safety during earthquakes. Structural Engineers have a broader role, designing various structural elements for buildings and infrastructure. While both roles require engineering credentials, Seismic Engineers focus more on seismic certifications and earthquake-specific analysis, making them a specialized subset within the structural engineering field.

What are some common challenges seismic engineers face when working on projects in high-risk earthquake zones?

Seismic Engineers working in high-risk earthquake zones often encounter challenges such as balancing strict safety regulations with project budgets, dealing with geological uncertainties, and coordinating with multidisciplinary teams to ensure structural integrity. They must stay updated on the latest seismic codes and incorporate advanced technologies to mitigate risks. Effective communication with architects, contractors, and local authorities is crucial to address site-specific constraints and deliver resilient designs.

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

To thrive as a Seismic Engineer, you need a strong background in civil or structural engineering, with specialized knowledge in earthquake engineering and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with structural analysis software like SAP2000, ETABS, and seismic design codes, as well as professional engineering certification (such as PE or SE), is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and interpreting complex data. These competencies are crucial for designing structures that can withstand seismic events and ensuring public safety.
What are popular job titles related to Seismic Engineer jobs in Colorado? For Seismic Engineer jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Seismic Engineer jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Seismic Engineer jobs in Colorado are:
Infographic showing various Seismic Engineer job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,109 per year, or $46.2 per hour.

Geotechnical Engineer (Principal-Level)

Shannon & Wilson, Inc.

Wheat Ridge, CO • On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days 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
The Principal Geotechnical Engineer serves as a senior technical leader responsible for delivering geotechnical engineering solutions, guiding multidisciplinary teams, advancing technical excellence, and supporting business development. This role provides strategic direction on geotechnical investigations, design methodologies, risk management, and project execution across major infrastructure and development projects.
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 Engineer (PE) license required; GE license preferred where applicable.
  • 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.
The base annual salary for this position will be $150,000 - $200,000.
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
$150,000 - $200,000 base annual salary