Geotechnical Engineer - Hydro and Dams

WSP; Ottawa; On-site; CAD 81,900 - 112,800; Full time

Job summary

WSP is seeking a Geotechnical Engineer - Embankment Dams to contribute to planning, assessment, design, rehabilitation, and safety of critical water infrastructure across Canada. You will work within Hydro & Dams teams collaborating with geotechnical, structural, hydraulic, mechanical, and electrical professionals to deliver innovative, resilient solutions.

The role focuses on leading design and rehabilitation of embankment dams, conducting geotechnical analyses, dam inspections, and Dam Safety

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Civil Engineering or Geotechnical Engineering.
• Experience with embankment dams, dykes, and hydraulic structures.
• Licensed P.Eng. in Ontario or eligible for licensure.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and rehabilitation of embankment dams, dykes, cofferdams, and dam stabilization projects from concept through detailed design.
• Perform geotechnical analyses and evaluate engineering parameters to develop safe, sustainable, and practical design solutions.
• Conduct dam inspections, Dam Safety Reviews, and assessments of geotechnical instrumentation data to identify risks and recommend mitigation measures.
• Provide technical support during construction activities, ensuring quality, safety, and compliance with project requirements.
• Coordinate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver integrated solutions that meet client, regulatory, and project objectives.
• Mentor engineers, technologists, and drafting professionals while promoting technical excellence and knowledge sharing.
• Participate in quality assurance activities, design reviews, and project coordination meetings to support successful project delivery.
• Support business development initiatives, client relationships, and the continued growth of WSP’s Hydro & Dams practice across Canada.

Skills

Geotechnical analysis

Dam inspections

Dam safety reviews

Team leadership/mentorship

Regulatory awareness

Education

Master’s degree in Civil/Geotechnical Engineering

Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) in Ontario

Job description

What if you could redefine what’s possible? With us, you can.

With us, you can. You want Purpose. Growth. Opportunity. People who get it.

We are the home of ambitious, passionate, and innovative world shapers.

With an unmatched breadth and depth of engineering, advisory and science‑based expertise, our global minds unite to power local solutions.

We are pathfinders and impact makers.

We are Visioneers.

We are WSP

The Opportunity

Build the Future with Us

Join a team of dam engineering specialists helping shape Canada’s renewable energy future. As a Geotechnical Engineer - Embankment Dams, you will contribute to the planning, assessment, design, rehabilitation, and safety of critical water infrastructure projects across Canada. Working within multidisciplinary Hydro & Dams teams, you will collaborate with geotechnical, structural, hydraulic, mechanical, and electrical professionals to deliver innovative and resilient engineering solutions that support communities and sustainable energy development.

Your Impact

• Lead the design and rehabilitation of embankment dams, dykes, cofferdams, and dam stabilization projects from concept through detailed design.
• Perform geotechnical analyses and evaluate engineering parameters to develop safe, sustainable, and practical design solutions.
• Conduct dam inspections, Dam Safety Reviews, and assessments of geotechnical instrumentation data to identify risks and recommend mitigation measures.
• Provide technical support during construction activities, ensuring quality, safety, and compliance with project requirements.
• Coordinate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver integrated solutions that meet client, regulatory, and project objectives.
• Mentor engineers, technologists, and drafting professionals while promoting technical excellence and knowledge sharing.
• Participate in quality assurance activities, design reviews, and project coordination meetings to support successful project delivery.
• Support business development initiatives, client relationships, and the continued growth of WSP’s Hydro & Dams practice across Canada.

The Skills That Set You Apart

• Master’s degree in Civil Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, or a related discipline; specialization in dam engineering is considered an asset.
• Demonstrated experience in geotechnical engineering related to embankment dams, dykes, and hydraulic structures.
• Proven experience performing dam inspections and Dam Safety Reviews.
• Strong knowledge of dam safety legislation, regulatory requirements, industry standards, and applicable guidelines.
• Registered Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) in Ontario.
• Experience delivering detailed design packages, including technical specifications, drawing reviews, and construction support.
• Strong analytical capabilities, including interpretation of geotechnical instrumentation and monitoring data.
• Ability to collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary teams while providing technical leadership and mentorship.

Why Choose WSP?

We exist to shape communities to advance humanity. The brightest engineers, advisors and scientists from across the globe call WSP home.

• Proudly Canadian – we are a Top 100 Employer in Canada for 2026.
• A global community of brilliant minds – your next idea, mentor, or opportunity is always within reach.
• Limitless opportunities start here. Whether it’s across the country or around the globe, we help you tailor your role to match your ambition because your growth drives ours.
• Flexible work, real balance – we recognize the importance of balance in our lives and encourage you to prioritize the balance in yours.

#WeAreWSP

Compensation

AB, BC, NT, NU, SK & YT: $89,800 - $118,900

MB & ON: $81,900 - $112,800

NB, NL, NS, PE & QC: $81,100 - $107,700

Disclosure

The final salary awarded for this role may vary from the above range based on several factors including, but not limited to, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, geographic location, performance, and business or organizational needs. The wage range provided in this job posting may be subject to change for business purposes.

Ready to Shape the Future?

Build resilient infrastructure that supports renewable energy, protects communities, and advances sustainable development across Canada. Join a team of recognized experts, solve complex engineering challenges, and make a lasting impact through projects that matter.