Geotechnical engineers deal with soil and rock-related work on diverse projects. It’s an arm of civil engineering where professionals deal with tasks such as dam designs, waste containment, and flood protection structures using scientific methods and technology. Geotechnical engineering opportunities are springing up worldwide, especially in cities such as California. These cities need their expertise to assess and interpret soil properties and participate in planning and design to ensure their construction projects’ success.
What will geotechnical jobs look like?
Geotechnical engineering jobs are vital to the success of every construction project. No structure goes up without approval on the state of the ground. Analysis and approval determines whether the site is ideal for the structure and won’t be affected by floods, droughts, or other environmental factors. Their report also informs what materials are suitable for the foundation and design of the structure to ensure its safety for habitation.
Some of the job responsibilities of a geotechnical engineer include the following:
- Collecting and organizing data
- Consulting on construction materials sustainability
- Designing analytical 3D and 2D models
- Examining sites for sensitive projects such as landfills
- Advising clients on best site selections using maps and aerial photos
- Analyzing geological hazard risks and ensuring they’re identified and managed
- Drilling for and analysis of bedrock and deposits samples
- Testing construction materials, such as bricks, gravel, sand, and clay
What will the market look like?
Geotechnical engineering careers are highly competitive, although numerous companies are hiring. The industry is expected to grow by 6.5 percent by 2027 and continue to expand in the following years. This engineering field relies heavily on technology, and experts project the industry will keep getting stronger as scientists develop new technologies. There’s also a growing need for commercial and residential infrastructure globally using innovative construction materials.
This is promising news for AEC professionals interested in a career in this field. According to salary.com, as of November 2024, the median salary for geotechnical engineers is $81,871 per annum. Engineers in the ninetieth percentile earn as much as $92,117.
How do you get hired?
There are several ways to land a job as a geotechnical engineer. You can either gain relevant experience and skills or by getting an education in a related field. Here are three suggestions.
- Get an undergraduate university or college degree in geotechnical engineering or a related course, such as geophysics, mining engineering, geology, or geo-technology. You can also obtain a postgraduate qualification in soil or rock science, hydrogeology, or geotechnical engineering.
- Internships and apprenticeships are also used to gain entry into this field. Completing an internship at a reputable Geotech firm can help you get hired by other companies or move higher in the same company. You’ll gain on-the-job experience and learn from working with seasoned professionals.
- Getting certifications if you have some experience in a similar field, such as civil engineering, can also help you get hired. Examples include the Geotechnical Engineering Specialist Certificate, taking the Geotechnical Engineering exam and obtaining a license. Find all the information you need for other qualifications, such as the Certified Engineering Geologist, Certified Hydrogeologist, and Professional Geologist here.
You’ll have the advantage if you’ve worked on projects, such as dikes and dams, and have design knowledge using software such as GeoStudio and Plaxis. You can also work as an assistant to or on a team of geotechnical engineers and learn from them.
Working with an engineering staffing agency such as Certis Solutions can help you find the right geotechnical engineering opportunities. We work with an extensive database of job openings to match our applicants with roles that fit their qualifications and skill set. Contact us today to get started.
