Principal Geotechnical Engineer

GirlingJones; Devon and Torbay; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A fast-growing civil and environmental consultancy is seeking a Principal Geotechnical / Geo-Environmental Engineer to lead technical projects in South West England. You will manage teams, ensure compliance with standards, and drive the company's strategic goals. Ideal candidates have significant consultancy experience and a background in engineering or geotechnical fields. Benefits include competitive salary, flexible working, and a supportive culture.

Benefits

28 days annual leave + 8 Bank Holidays

Company pension scheme

Structured training and development support

Flexible / hybrid working arrangements

Qualifications

• Typically 8+ years’ experience in geotechnical or geo-environmental consultancy.
• Chartered or near-chartered with ICE, IStructE, or GeolSoc.
• Strong understanding of British Standards, Eurocodes, and environmental legislation.

Responsibilities

• Providing technical leadership across geotechnical and geo-environmental services.
• Overseeing the planning, procurement, and supervision of ground investigations.
• Reviewing and approving investigation designs and interpretative reports.
• Delivering Phase I–IV contaminated land assessments and risk evaluations.

Skills

Technical leadership

Project management

Communication

Problem-solving

Education

Degree in Engineering Geology, Geotechnical Engineering, Civil Engineering

Job description

Principal Geotechnical / Geo-Environmental Engineer
Location: South West England
Salary: £45,000 – £55,000
Contract Type: Permanent, Full-time (Part-time considered)

A growing civil and environmental consultancy is seeking an experienced Principal Geotechnical / Geo-Environmental Engineer to lead a team delivering technically challenging projects across the region. This is a leadership role for an engineer who enjoys balancing project management, technical oversight, and mentoring within a collaborative and forward-thinking practice.

The Role

You will take overall responsibility for the technical direction and quality assurance of geotechnical and environmental projects, while driving innovation and supporting the professional growth of others.

Key responsibilities:

• Providing technical leadership across geotechnical and geo-environmental services.
• Overseeing the planning, procurement, and supervision of ground investigations.
• Reviewing and approving investigation designs and interpretative reports.
• Leading the design and interpretation of geotechnical data to inform civil and structural schemes.
• Delivering and signing off Phase I–IV contaminated land assessments and risk evaluations.
• Producing and reviewing CEMPs, MMPs, earthworks specifications, and waste management plans.
• Ensuring compliance with CDM, H&S, and environmental permitting requirements.
• Managing client relationships and representing the company at meetings and negotiations.
• Coordinating with civil and structural teams on multi-disciplinary projects.
• Mentoring and developing junior and senior engineers.
• Contributing to business development and quality management processes.

About You

• Degree in Engineering Geology, Geotechnical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or related field.
• Typically 8+ years’ experience in geotechnical or geo-environmental consultancy.
• Chartered or near-chartered with ICE, IStructE, or GeolSoc.
• Proven track record in leading projects, managing teams, and maintaining client relationships.
• Strong understanding of British Standards, Eurocodes, and environmental legislation.
• Excellent report writing, communication, and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to work independently while contributing to company strategy.
• Full UK driving licence.

Rewards and Benefits

• Salary: £45,000 – £55,000+ DoE
• 28 days annual leave + 8 Bank Holidays.
• Company pension scheme.
• Structured training and development support towards chartership.
• Funded external courses, mentoring, and industry events.
• Flexible / hybrid working arrangements.
• Supportive culture promoting leadership growth and work-life balance