Geotechnical Engineer

Apex Search and Selection Limited; City Of London; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering recruitment agency is seeking an experienced Geotechnical Engineer specializing in Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) designs. You will support trenchless infrastructure projects across the UK, working on utilities and renewables. Ideal candidates will have a BEng/MEng in Geotechnical Engineering and at least 3-5 years of relevant experience. Competitive salary and flexible working options are provided.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Flexible working options

Professional development support

Qualifications

• Minimum 3-5 years of experience in HDD design and trenchless technology projects.
• Understanding of HDD design codes and standards.
• Familiarity with UK ground conditions and geological mapping.

Responsibilities

• Conduct geotechnical assessments to inform HDD design.
• Produce or review HDD design reports.
• Evaluate geological risks related to HDD.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams.

Skills

HDD design

Geotechnical risk assessment

Soil mechanics

Rock mechanics

Communication skills

Education

BEng/MEng or MSc in Geotechnical Engineering

Tools

HoleBASE

PLAXIS

Rocscience suite

Job description

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Geotechnical Engineer with a specialisation in Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) designs to support the planning, design, and delivery of trenchless infrastructure projects across the UK. You will work on high-profile utilities, renewables, transport, and energy sector projects, ensuring safe, efficient, and technically sound HDD design solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct geotechnical assessments and interpret ground investigation data to inform HDD feasibility and design.
• Produce or review detailed HDD design reports, including bore path alignment, entry/exit angles, pullback calculations, and drilling profiles.
• Evaluate geological risks and mitigation strategies related to HDD, including ground stability, fluid loss, and hydrofracture.
• Specify and review ground investigation requirements specific to HDD routes.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including civil, structural, environmental, and utility engineers.
• Advise on construction methods, drilling techniques, and ground support systems based on ground conditions.
• Support tendering processes by providing technical input and value engineering options.
• Ensure compliance with UK regulations, including CDM 2015, environmental regulations, and utility standards.
• Attend site visits to assess conditions, monitor works, and liaise with contractors and clients.
• Prepare and present technical documentation to clients, stakeholders, and regulatory authorities.

Essential Skills & Experience

• BEng/MEng or MSc in Geotechnical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Engineering Geology, or related discipline.
• Proven experience in HDD design and trenchless technology projects (minimum 3-5 years preferred).
• Strong knowledge of soil mechanics, rock mechanics, and geotechnical risk assessment.
• Familiarity with UK ground conditions, geological mapping, and GI practices.
• Experience using design and analysis software such as HoleBASE, PLAXIS, Rocscience suite, or similar.
• Understanding of HDD design codes and standards (e.g., UKWIR, ASTM F1962, BS/EN standards).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Desirable Qualifications & Attributes

• Chartered or working towards Chartered status with ICE or similar professional body (CEng or CGeol).
• Experience with utility crossings, river or road HDD projects, or long-distance pipeline schemes.
• Knowledge preparing submission to the following bodies: Highways England (CD622), Network Rail (rail assurance process), and Canal & Rivers Trust.
• Knowledge of environmental considerations, such as bore fluid management and ecological impact.
• Site supervision or contractor liaison experience.
• CSCS card or ability to obtain.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Flexible and hybrid working options.
• Professional development and chartership support.
• Opportunity to work on nationally significant infrastructure projects.
• A collaborative and forward-thinking engineering team.

Application Process

Please submit your CV and a cover letter detailing your HDD project experience and technical expertise. Candidates must have the right to work in the UK.