Principal Engineer / Geologist

SOCOTEC Group; Coventry; Hybrid; GBP 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

25 days holiday

Electric car scheme

Employee recognition programmes

Family-friendly support

Retail discounts

Employee assistance programme

Enhanced company pension

Disability Confident accreditation

Job summary

SOCOTEC is seeking a Principal Geologist to lead our Coventry-based Infrastructure team. The role focuses on managing complex ground investigation projects and delivering technical leadership across multi-site teams.

Join a forward-thinking firm that values expertise, collaboration, and the delivery of safe, compliant infrastructure solutions across the UK.

Qualifications

• Degree-level qualification in geotechnical discipline.
• 6–10 years plus relevant industry experience.
• Strong technical, communication and leadership skills.

Responsibilities

• Planning and managing ground investigation projects.
• Acting as Technical Manager on large-scale land and overwater projects.
• Supervising, mentoring and training technical staff.

Skills

Project management

Technical leadership

Communication

Mentoring

Education

Geotechnical degree

Job description

SOCOTEC’s Infrastructure team delivers essential technical services that ensure the safety, quality and compliance of major construction and civil engineering projects across the UK. We provide independent construction materials testing to verify strength, durability and performance of key materials; foundations and pile testing to confirm ground stability; specialist structures and pavements assessment and analysis; and integrated geotechnical and structural monitoring that delivers real time data throughout project lifecycles. Our experts use industry leading methods and advanced technology to support infrastructure projects from initial site investigation through construction and long term performance, helping clients manage risk, meet regulatory standards and build safer, more resilient assets.

What's in it for you?

Your expertise deserves recognition. Alongside a competitive salary, we offer a comprehensive benefits package including 25 days holiday (with the option to buy more), an electric car scheme (where applicable), employee recognition programmes, family-friendly support, exclusive retail discounts, employee assistance programmes, and an enhanced company pension. SOCOTEC UK & Ireland are proud to be Disability Confident accredited.

Job Description

Are you interested in leading complex ground investigation projects? This could be your opportunity to excel as a Principal Geologist, playing a vital role in supporting SOCOTEC’s continued success.

As SOCOTEC grows, so do our teams. We’re looking for a dedicated Principal Geologist to join our Infrastructure division and wear the SOCOTEC badge with pride.

We are seeking a proactive, reliable, and flexible Principal Geologist to join our Coventry-based team. In this role, you’ll need the confidence to work independently, alongside the ability to collaborate effectively as part of a team. A background in geotechnical disciplines, along with extensive ground investigation experience, is essential to thrive in this position.

The tasks you will undertake will include (but are not limited to):

• Planning and managing ground investigation projects
• Acting as Technical Manager on large-scale land and overwater projects
• Supervising, mentoring and training technical staff

Qualifications

To be a successful Principal Geologist, you should be able to demonstrate:

• Degree-level qualification in a geotechnical discipline
• 6–10 years plus relevant industry experience
• Strong technical, communication and leadership skills

Additional Information

Why SOCOTEC?

Join a thriving community of over 2,000 industry professionals who are passionate about making a real difference. At SOCOTEC UK, we're not just delivering services - we're shaping the future of testing, inspection, and certification across the nation.

What sets us apart? Our people. We've built our reputation on attracting exceptional talent like you and empowering them to deliver excellence at every turn. Our comprehensive range of TIC services means you'll have the opportunity to work on diverse, challenging projects that truly matter.

In this role, you won't just be another employee - you'll be a key player in our continued success story. Your expertise will directly contribute to our mission of building a safer, more sustainable world, while you grow your career alongside some of the industry's finest professionals.

Build a traditional career path or explore opportunities across multiple disciplines - all within SOCOTEC. Your choice, your direction.

Work Your Way

Local, national, or global projects. Office-based, remote, or hybrid. We offer the flexibility that empowers you to perform at your best.

Committed to Your Growth

From day one, you'll have access to comprehensive training, mentorship, and development programs. We support every step of your professional journey. #YouGrowWeGrow

Think you've got what it takes to add value to our success? We would love to hear from you and look forward to receiving your application.

Building a safer and more sustainable world is the core mission we set out to achieve at SOCOTEC, it is at the heart of everything that we do. We are committed to acting as a key player in society, investing in innovative solutions to ensure social and environmental concerns are at the forefront of all of our business operations.