Principal Geotechnical Engineer – Underground Structures

WSP USA; Greater London; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm in Greater London is seeking a Principal Geotechnical Engineer who will lead the design of underground structures and oversee various projects. This role requires extensive experience in geotechnical design for tunnels and shafts, as well as strong project management skills. The successful candidate will work with a diverse team, ensuring compliance with relevant standards and promoting safety and inclusion within the workplace.

Benefits

Hybrid working policy

Gymflex scheme for gym memberships

Flexible working arrangements

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in geotechnical design for underground tunnels and shafts.
• Strong understanding of ground behavior and risk management.
• Proficiency in geotechnical analysis software.

Responsibilities

• Lead geotechnical design for underground structures.
• Conduct site inspections and supervise construction activities.
• Provide expert advice on excavation methods.

Skills

Geotechnical design

Soil mechanics

Project management

Communication

Education

Degree in Civil Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, or Engineering Geology

Tools

PLAXIS

FLAC

GeoStudio

Job description

What if you could shape a career as unique as you?

At WSP, you can access our global scale, contribute to landmark projects and connect with the brightest minds in your field to do the best work of your life. You can embrace your curiosity in a culture that celebrates new ideas and diverse perspectives. You can experience a world of opportunity and the chance to shape a career as unique as you.

A little more about your role…

We are seeking an experienced Principal Geotechnical Engineer with a proven track record in the design and delivery of underground tunnels and shafts in both soft ground and hard rock conditions. You will join a diverse team of engineers, scientists, and modellers, contributing to landmark projects across the UK, Ireland, and internationally. Our team values diversity of experience and collaborative working, and we offer an integration period to help you familiarise yourself with colleagues and projects.

The Role

• Lead geotechnical design for underground structures including tunnels, shafts, and associated works from concept through detailed design and construction phases.
• Apply advanced soil and rock mechanics principles to develop safe, efficient, and innovative solutions for underground projects.
• Ensure compliance with relevant design standards and guidance (e.g., Eurocode 7, BS codes, ITA guidelines, and applicable local regulations).
• Undertake and review geotechnical analyses such as stability assessments, ground‑structure interaction modelling, and support system design.
• Oversee ground investigation planning, interpretation of geotechnical data, and development of geotechnical baseline reports.
• Manage technical delivery of multi‑disciplinary projects, coordinating inputs from structural, civil, and environmental teams.
• Provide expert advice on excavation methods, ground improvement techniques, and temporary/permanent support systems.
• Conduct site inspections, supervise construction activities, and provide technical input during tunnelling and shaft sinking operations.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to internal training programmes and knowledge‑sharing initiatives.
• Support business development through proposal preparation, client engagement, and participation in industry conferences.
• Promote health, safety, and equality in all aspects of work, adhering to company policies and values.

What we will be looking for you to demonstrate

• Degree qualified in Civil Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, or Engineering Geology (postgraduate qualification desirable).
• Extensive experience in geotechnical design for underground tunnels and shafts in soft ground and/or hard rock.
• Strong understanding of ground behaviour, soil and rock mechanics, and geotechnical risk management.
• Familiarity with tunnelling methods (e.g., TBM, NATM, SCL) and shaft sinking techniques.
• Proficiency in geotechnical analysis software (e.g., PLAXIS, FLAC, GeoStudio) and interpretation of ground investigation data.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects and lead multi‑disciplinary teams.
• Excellent communication skills and willingness to travel within the UK and internationally.

If you don’t meet all that we are looking for, please still consider applying. Not everyone will meet all the requirements, but you might have skills we didn’t know we need.

Imagine a better future for you and a better future for us all.

Work on landmark projects around the world and embrace opportunities to make an even bigger impact in the communities you care about. What if you could do the best work of your life and create a legacy for yourself?

With us, you can. Apply today.

We are one of the world’s leading engineering and professional services firms. Our 72,800 passionate people are united by the common purpose of creating positive, long‑lasting impacts on the communities we serve through a culture of innovation, integrity, and inclusion. With over 9,000 professionals across the UK and Ireland, we are dedicated to our local communities and propelled by international brainpower.

WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU?

Work-life balance

At WSP, we understand that work is just one aspect of your life. It’s important to make time for you, your family, friends, interests and your community.

Our hybrid working policy offers the flexibility to work from home two days a week, while also providing opportunities to collaborate in our modern offices across the UK.

Inclusivity & Belonging

We welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and experiences. We enable rewarding careers by encouraging people to bring their whole and authentic selves to work so that our work represents the fullest spectrum of society. We celebrate integrity and treat people with respect, supporting each other and embracing a culture of inclusion and belonging at WSP. We have our employee resource groups bring together employees and allies with different backgrounds to promote our culture of inclusivity.

Health & Wellbeing

We are committed to supporting our people, giving you the tools to make improvements to your health and wellbeing through our Thrive programme.

Our Virtual GP service gives you access to an NHS or Irish Medical Council GP at a time and place that suits you – giving you peace of mind and quick access to medical advice when you need it most. We also provide reasonable workplace adjustments for those in need. Additionally, you can benefit from the Gymflex scheme, which offers up to 40% off annual gym memberships through our WSP flexible benefits program, as well as a comprehensive menopause support package.

Flex your time

To enhance work-life balance, WSP offers the “WSP My Hour,” allowing you to take one hour each day for personal activities, with the flexibility to make up the time earlier or later that day.

We also provide part‑time and flexible working arrangements, the option to purchase additional leave, and the ability to use your bank holiday entitlement to suit you.

Your development

We understand the importance of development and training to you. That’s why we foster a supportive environment that invests in your growth, whether through training, mentoring, or Chartership.

Here at WSP we positively encourage applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, pregnancy or maternity/paternity. As a Disability Confident leader, we will interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria, please let us know if you require any workplace adjustments in support of your application.