Geotechnical engineering jobs are some of the most interesting and challenging positions in the engineering field. Geotechnical engineers work with soil, rock, and water to design structures that can withstand pressure from their surroundings. If you’re interested in a career as a geotechnical engineer, here are some entry-level jobs that may interest you.
Geologist: A geologist is someone who studies the earth’s physical materials and processes. A geologist may collect data about rocks, soils, fossils, minerals, natural resources and more. They might also conduct research on how these things relate to geological processes such as erosion or earthquakes.
Environmental Engineer: An environmental engineer focuses on making sure that humans don’t pollute the environment while they work on projects such as building roads or bridges. Environmental engineers design systems that remove waste products from industrial processes before they get into water supplies or other natural resources; they also test samples of water to make sure it’s safe for human consumption or use in manufacturing plants (e.g., drinking water)
Geotechnical Engineering Entry Level Jobs
- Mathematics, science, and geological knowledge.
- Ability to draw basic sketches.
- A passion for the environment.
- Ability to apply technical knowledge.
- Analytical abilities.
- Able to build and maintain relationships with clients and other teams.
- Project management skills.
University
You could complete an undergraduate degree in a relevant subject, such as:
Geological engineering
Geology
Geotechnology
Geophysics
Mineral or mining engineering.
For an undergraduate degree you’ll usually require:
5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
2 – 3 A levels, or equivalent, including maths and science.
Employers may also ask for a postgraduate qualification in a subject such as geotechnical engineering, hydrogeology, soil or rock mechanics. To enrol on a postgraduate degree course, you’ll need to have completed an undergraduate degree, or equivalent qualification.
Equivalent entry requirements explained
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College/training provider
Your local college or training provider may offer courses to help you on your journey towards becoming a geo-technical engineer, such as environmental science, geology or applied science.
Entry requirements vary but you’ll generally need 4 – 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent.
Equivalent entry requirements explained
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Funding advice
Apprenticeship
You could complete an apprenticeship to become a geo-technical engineer. You can train as an engineering technician, and then specialise to gain the relevant qualifications to work as a geo-technical engineer.
You’ll need 4 – 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science.
Apprenticeships are open to anyone over the age of 16. As an apprentice, you’ll be fully employed by your company and expected to work a minimum of 30 hours a week. Your time will be split between on-the-job experience and a college or training provider.
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Guide to apprenticeships
Work
If you have a background in civil engineering or science, it is sometimes possible to enter the field through the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) or the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IOM3). You might start out as an assistant to a more experienced geo-technical engineer and progress as your abilities improve.
Work experience
Work experience is essential to gaining employment within the construction industry. You could gain this at school, or by working weekends and holidays with a company or relative who works as a geo-technical engineer. Potential employers will always be pleased to see work experience listed on your CV.
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Skills
Additional skills which may benefit anyone considering a job as a geo-technical engineer include:
Mathematics, science, and geological knowledge
Ability to draw basic sketches
A passion for the environment
Ability to apply technical knowledge
Analytical abilities
Able to build and maintain relationships with clients and other teams
Project management skills.
What does a geo-technical engineer do?
As a geo-technical engineer, you will be responsible for the study and review of the natural environment before a construction project takes place. This includes reviewing the surrounding minerals and materials and helping to design projects based on your findings.
The job role of a geo-technical engineer involves the following duties:
Gathering and analysing data
Looking at the risk of geological hazards and making sure any factors affecting engineering works are identified and managed
Advising on procedures required and the suitability of construction materials
Using specialist computer software to create analytical 2D and 3D models
Consulting geological maps and aerial photographs to advise on site selection
Assisting with the design of built structures, using specialised computer software or calculations
Planning detailed field investigations by drilling and analysing samples of deposits or bedrock
Supervising ground investigations and budgets
Advising on and testing a range of construction materials including sand, gravel, bricks and clay
Making recommendations on the proposed use of a site
Managing staff, including other engineering geologists, geotechnical engineers, consultants and contractors
Working to preserve and protect the physical environment
Analysing sites and designs for environmentally sensitive developments, such as landfill.
How much could you earn as a geo-technical engineer?
The expected salary for a geo-technical engineer varies as you become more experienced.
Newly trained geo-technical engineers can earn £20,000 – £25,000
Trained geo-technical engineers with some experience can earn £25,000 – £32,000
Senior, chartered, or master geo-technical engineers can earn £32,000 – £60,000*
