Chief Geotechnical Engineer

Calibre Search; Glasgow; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering consultancy in Scotland is seeking a Chief Geotechnical Engineer to lead a design team in Glasgow or Edinburgh. This role involves delivering detailed geotechnical designs for major infrastructure projects, mentoring specialists, and providing technical direction. The ideal candidate has extensive experience in geotechnical design, chartered professional engineer status, and strong local connections. This is an exceptional opportunity to work on significant projects while expanding team capabilities within Scotland and globally.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in geotechnical design for major infrastructure.
• Expertise in geotechnical structures and soil-structure interaction.
• Proven track record in complex project leadership.

Responsibilities

• Lead a dedicated team of geotechnical specialists.
• Deliver detailed geotechnical design work on infrastructure projects.
• Provide technical authority and project leadership.
• Drive innovation in advanced geotechnical analysis.

Skills

Geotechnical design

Team leadership

Technical reviews

Client relationship management

Communication skills

Education

Degree in relevant geotechnical or engineering discipline

Chartered Professional Engineer status

MSc or PhD (preferred)

Job description

Chief Geotechnical Engineer - Scotland

About the Role

I am working with one of the most well-respected global engineering consultancies looking to bring in a Chief Geotechnical Engineer to lead and develop a high-performing geotechnical design team in Scotland. Based in Glasgow or Edinburgh, this is a detailed design-focused technical leadership position where you will support the delivery and technical development of ground engineering projects across a prestigious portfolio of work.

You will work on major infrastructure projects spanning nuclear energy, transport, tunnelling, renewable energy and water resources. As a recognised specialist with extensive industry knowledge, you will lead a team of engineering geologists and geotechnical engineers, providing technical direction, project leadership and mentoring to support their professional development.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a dedicated team of geotechnical specialists, fostering technical excellence and continuous professional development
• Deliver detailed geotechnical design work on complex infrastructure projects, particularly onshore renewables, road and rail, power systems and water management
• Provide technical authority, design reviews and project leadership across a portfolio of major commissions
• Support design coordination and build strong client and contractor relationships to ensure delivery of high-quality outcomes
• Contribute to commercial and technical bid proposal reviews to support effective business development
• Drive innovation and advance the consultancy's capability in advanced geotechnical analysis and digital tools
• Leverage your extensive industry network to support team growth, capability development and the expansion of services within Scotland and the UK

What We're Looking For

• Chartered Professional Engineer status (CEng or equivalent with a relevant institution)
• Degree in a relevant geotechnical or engineering discipline, ideally supplemented by an MSc or PhD
• Extensive experience in geotechnical design, particularly for onshore renewables, road and rail, power systems and water management projects
• Deep knowledge of ground engineering delivery for major infrastructure clients, with strong local connections and understanding of Scottish geology and ground conditions
• Proven track record of leading complex geotechnical projects and delighting clients
• Demonstrated ability to provide pragmatic technical reviews and support right-first-time project delivery
• Expertise in geotechnical structures, soil-structure interaction workflows and modelling tools
• Knowledge and preferably practical experience in dynamic soil behaviour and seismic design
• Excellent technical, numeracy and communication skills, with the ability to produce clear reports and presentations
• Active engagement with industry partnerships and current awareness of geotechnical policy, legislation and standards
• Strong collaborative approach and personality suited to multi-disciplinary, national and international projects

The Opportunity

This is a unique opportunity to join a leading consultancy with over 300 UK-based ground engineering and tunnelling professionals. You will be instrumental in expanding the current team and extending capability within Scotland and globally, working on some of the UK's most significant infrastructure projects.

If you require any more information on this role, please contact Alex on The Calibre Search Manchester number.

Calibre Search promote equality in the workplace and we welcome applications from all suitably skilled or qualified candidates regardless of their sex, race, disability, religion / beliefs, sexual orientation or age. We act as both an employment agency and employment business