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Site Investigation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Site Investigation information

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$12

$24

$39

How much do site investigation jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 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 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.

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.

More about Site Investigation jobs
Infographic showing various Site Investigation job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,816 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Principal-Site Investigation & Remediation

Kimmel & Associates

San Francisco, CA โ€ข On-site, Remote

$170K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

About the Company

Our client is a well-established and highly respected environmental engineering and civil infrastructure firm recognized for technical excellence, responsiveness, and successful project delivery. The organization is employee-focused and currently investing in strategic growth throughout California.

This is an opportunity to join a collaborative, technically driven firm and play a key role in expanding its environmental consulting capabilities across the state.

About the Position

The Principal - Site Investigation & Remediation will provide entrepreneurial leadership in growing the firm's Site Investigation and Remediation practice throughout California. This is a high-impact opportunity for a seasoned environmental professional with deep expertise in investigation and remediation and a demonstrated history of client development, business growth, and market expansion.

The Principal will combine technical leadership with relationship development and business development responsibilities, working across disciplines to expand the firm's consulting practice. The successful candidate will have the autonomy and influence to identify opportunities, cultivate strategic client relationships, lead complex projects, and mentor the next generation of technical professionals.

Key Responsibilities

  • Generate annual net revenue exceeding $750,000 through client development, project pursuits, and strategic business development.
  • Develop and maintain relationships with clients throughout California while identifying, pursuing, and securing new business opportunities.
  • Expand the firm's client base through strategic networking, marketing, relationship development, and industry involvement.
  • Lead proposal development, client interviews, strategic pursuits, and contract negotiations.
  • Lead and oversee environmental site investigation and remediation projects from initial planning through regulatory closure.
  • Provide senior-level technical expertise in investigation design, remedial alternatives evaluation, corrective actions, and regulatory compliance.
  • Provide technical leadership on projects involving groundwater, soil, soil vapor, and sediment contamination.
  • Mentor, develop, and support technical staff across the organization.
  • Oversee the preparation and quality of technical reports, work plans, remedial designs, risk assessments, and regulatory submittals.
  • Represent the firm through industry organizations, conferences, professional associations, and other strategic forums.
  • Collaborate with other practice leaders to identify cross-disciplinary opportunities and strengthen the firm's overall consulting platform.

Requirements

  • 20+ years of progressively responsible experience in environmental consulting, site investigation, and remediation.
  • Bachelor's degree in Environmental Engineering, Civil Engineering, Geology, Environmental Science, or a related discipline required.
  • PE, PG, or other relevant professional registration preferred, but not required.
  • Extensive experience with environmental investigation and remediation involving:
    • Groundwater contamination
    • Soil contamination
    • Soil vapor
    • Sediment contamination
    • Petroleum hydrocarbons
    • Chlorinated solvents
    • Metals
    • Emerging contaminants preferred
  • Experience with projects involving utility, industrial, manufacturing, transportation, and/or brownfield redevelopment sites preferred.
  • Demonstrated success managing complex environmental remediation projects and multidisciplinary teams.
  • Strong understanding of federal, state, and local environmental regulations and remediation programs.
  • Familiarity with CERCLA, RCRA, UST, and state-led cleanup programs preferred.
  • Experience with the design and/or oversight of remedial systems, excavation, groundwater treatment, vapor mitigation, and site restoration preferred.
  • Proven ability to develop and maintain senior-level client relationships and contribute to business development and revenue growth.
  • Strong technical writing, communication, leadership, and organizational skills.
  • Demonstrated experience with project budgeting, scheduling, contract administration, and financial performance management.
  • Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to identify opportunities, develop markets, and contribute to the long-term growth of a consulting practice.

Project Experience:Projects ranging from approximately $100,000 to $25 million.

Location: Fully Remote - candidates must be based in Northern California or the Bay Area. Periodic travel throughout California will be required for client meetings, project oversight, business development, and industry activities.

Benefits

  • Competitive base salary of $170,000-$200,000, based on experience and qualifications.
  • Remote work flexibility.
  • Opportunity to play a significant leadership role in expanding a growing environmental consulting practice.
  • Entrepreneurial platform with the resources and support of an established engineering organization.
  • Opportunity to influence strategic direction, client development, and market expansion across California.
  • Additional benefits to be confirmed based on the company's standard executive/professional benefits package.
Employment Type: FULL_TIME

Kimmel & Associates logo

About Kimmel & Associates

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Kimmel & Associates, based in Asheville, NC, US, is recognized as the premier leader in the executive search and recruitment industry. The company, in operation since 1981, serves numerous industries including construction, supply chain, waste, and recycling, specialty contractors, and private equity. Utilizing their exceptional knowledge and robust industry connections, they assist clients by filling crucial executive and managerial roles that directly impact business performance and growth. The company is guided by a strong corporate philosophy centered on respect, listening, humility, and continuous improvement. Their mission is to foster enduring relationships and to help industries thrive by connecting the brightest talent with superior companies.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Asheville, NC, US

Year founded

1981

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