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Site Investigation information

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$39

How much do site investigation jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for site investigation in the United States is $24.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $26.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Site Investigation vs Geotechnical Engineer?

AspectSite InvestigationGeotechnical Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in geology, civil engineering, or related fieldRequires a degree in geotechnical engineering, civil engineering, or geology; often professional registration
Work EnvironmentFieldwork at construction sites, environmental sites, or land development projectsDesigning geotechnical solutions, analyzing soil reports, often in office or lab settings
Industry UsageUsed during initial site assessments and feasibility studiesInvolved in foundation design, slope stability, and ground improvement projects

While both roles involve understanding soil and ground conditions, Site Investigation focuses on collecting data through fieldwork, whereas Geotechnical Engineers analyze that data to design engineering solutions. Both are essential in construction and land development projects, often working closely together.

What is a site investigation?

Site investigation jobs involve assessing the physical and environmental conditions of a specific location, often before construction or development projects begin. Professionals in these roles collect and analyze soil, groundwater, gas, and other samples to identify potential hazards, contamination, or geotechnical issues. Their findings help inform safe and effective project planning, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and minimizing risks. Site investigation jobs are essential for environmental consultants, geotechnical engineers, and construction planners.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a site investigator?

To thrive as a Site Investigator, you need a background in environmental science, geology, or engineering, along with strong analytical and fieldwork skills. Familiarity with environmental sampling equipment, GIS software, and regulatory guidelines such as Phase I and II ESA protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for gathering accurate data and reporting findings. These skills ensure thorough and compliant site assessments, which are vital for environmental safety and regulatory approval.

What are some common challenges faced during a site investigation and how are they typically addressed?

Site investigation professionals often encounter challenges such as unexpected subsurface conditions, limited site access, and tight project timelines. To address these, teams typically conduct thorough pre-field planning, use advanced geotechnical equipment, and maintain close communication with stakeholders. Flexibility and problem-solving skills are essential, as findings may require adapting the investigation approach or collaborating with engineers and environmental scientists to ensure accurate and timely results.
More about Site Investigation jobs
What states have the most Site Investigation jobs? States with the most job openings for Site Investigation jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Site Investigation jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Site Investigation jobs are:
Site Investigation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Site Investigation job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,816 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Principal - Site Investigation and Remediation

ETIC

San Francisco, CA • On-site, Remote

$170K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

At ETIC, we tackle complex environmental and infrastructure challenges that help shape safer, more sustainable communities across California and beyond. From environmental remediation and stormwater compliance to engineering, construction support, and regulatory consulting, our team partners with clients to deliver practical solutions that make a lasting impact.
We are seeking a Principal in California to help grow our Site Investigation and Remediation practice. This is a high-impact, entrepreneurial leadership role ideal for a professional with deep expertise in environmental remediation and a proven track record in client development, strategic growth, and market expansion.
This role emphasizes client engagement, business development, relationship management, staff mentorship, and technical leadership on complex projects involving groundwater, soil, soil vapor, and sediment contamination at commercial and industrial properties. The successful candidate will collaborate across disciplines to help lead and expand ETIC's consulting practice by providing strategic direction, technical expertise, entrepreneurial leadership, and innovative solutions for our clients.
The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of environmental regulations, investigation and remediation methodologies, and project management practices, while also demonstrating the ability to cultivate long-term client relationships and drive sustainable business growth across sectors, including environmental, chemical, commercial, manufacturing, government, energy, financial, insurance, and legal services.
Key Responsibilities
  • Account Management: Generate annual net revenue exceeding $750,000.
  • Client Engagement: Develop and maintain relationships with client stakeholders throughout California to identify, pursue, and secure new business opportunities. Serve as a trusted advisor to clients and industry partners.
  • Business Development: Expand ETIC's client base through strategic networking, marketing, and relationship development. Leverage existing industry relationships and professional networks to bring new clients and opportunities to the firm. Lead proposal development, interviews, and strategic pursuit efforts for complex environmental projects.
  • Project Management: Lead and oversee environmental site investigation and remediation projects from planning through closure. Ensure projects are delivered safely, on schedule, within budget, and in accordance with company quality standards. Provide senior-level technical expertise related to investigation design, remedial alternatives evaluation, corrective actions, and regulatory compliance.
  • Team Leadership: Mentor, develop, and support technical staff across all levels of the organization. Foster collaboration, professional growth, and technical excellence within the remediation practice.
  • Technical Oversight: Oversee preparation and review of technical reports, work plans, remedial designs, risk assessments, and regulatory submittals. Coordinate with clients, subcontractors, regulatory agencies, and internal teams to support successful project execution.
  • Strategic Growth: Contribute to the strategic direction and growth of ETIC's Site Investigation and Remediation practice, including identification of emerging market opportunities and service offerings.
  • Industry Expertise: Stay current with evolving environmental regulations, remediation technologies, and industry best practices. Represent ETIC through industry organizations, conferences, and professional associations.

Preferred Experience
  • Investigation and remediation of petroleum hydrocarbons, chlorinated solvents, metals, and emerging contaminants.
  • Experience with utility, industrial, manufacturing, transportation, or brownfield redevelopment projects.
  • Familiarity with CERCLA, RCRA, underground storage tank (UST), and state-led cleanup programs.
  • Design and oversight of remedial systems, excavation projects, groundwater treatment, vapor mitigation, and site restoration.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Environmental Engineering, Civil Engineering, Geology, Environmental Science, or a related field required.
  • Professional Engineer (PE), Professional Geologist (PG), or other relevant professional registration preferred.
  • Minimum 20+ years of progressively responsible experience in environmental consulting, site investigation, and remediation.
  • Demonstrated experience managing complex environmental remediation projects and multidisciplinary teams.
  • Strong knowledge of federal, state, and local environmental regulations and remediation programs.
  • Proven ability to develop client relationships and support business development initiatives.
  • Excellent technical writing, communication, leadership, and organizational skills.
  • Experience with budgeting, scheduling, and project financial management.
  • Ability to travel to project sites and client meetings as needed.

Salary Range: $170,000 to $200,000+ annually DOE
(final offer based on experience, skills, and internal equity)
Notice to California Applicants:
ETIC collects personal information in connection with your application for employment in accordance with the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) and California Privacy Rights Act (CPRA). This information is used for employment-related purposes only. For more details, please refer to the "Notice to Applicants/Employees" available on ETIC Central under the Administrative Guides icon in the Labor Law Posters & Legal Notices folder.

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