Assistant Geotechnical Engineer (Chicago)

Burns & McDonnell; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 75,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

ESOP

401(k)

Job summary

Burns & McDonnell is seeking an Assistant Geotechnical Engineer in Chicago, IL to support project teams from concept to construction. You will assist with field reconnaissance, subsurface investigations, data compilation, and geotechnical design under supervision of a licensed engineer.

Travel up to 25% is possible as projects demand. The role emphasizes rigorous analysis, precise documentation, and client coordination, with ABET-accredited degrees preferred and EIT certification a plus.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or related field; ABET accreditation strongly preferred.
• Master’s degree in Geotechnical Engineering or Civil Engineering with Geotechnical emphasis preferred.
• Prior internship/consulting experience is a plus.
• Basic knowledge of geotechnical techniques, principles and procedures.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to analyze quantitatively and think critically.
• Proficient computer skills (MS Office).
• Geotechnical software familiarity (LPILE, GeoStudio, UTEXAS4).
• Attention to detail, teamwork, organization, and problem solving.
• EIT certification preferred; GPA 3.0+ preferred.
• Campus/community involvement is a plus.
• Authorized to work permanently in the U.S. without sponsorship.

Responsibilities

• Assist field reconnaissance and geological research to evaluate site conditions and risks.
• Help develop work scopes and subcontracts for subsurface investigations.
• Compile geotechnical data, boring logs and subsurface profiles.
• Assist field observation of site investigation activities.
• Contribute to geotechnical design from concept through design completion.
• Support hazard assessments, foundation design, slope stability and earthwork analyses.
• Prepare and review engineering calculations, reports, specs and construction documents.
• Assist client presentations and contract administration.
• Perform geotechnical construction observation during projects.

Skills

Communication skills

Analytical thinking

Attention to detail

MS Office

Engineering software

Team collaboration

EIT Certification

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering (ABET preferred)

Master’s degree in Geotechnical Engineering (ABET preferred)

Tools

Ensoft LPILE

GeoStudio

UTEXAS4

Liquefaction analysis software

Excavation wall design software

Job description

Description

The Assistant Geotechnical Engineer will work under the supervision of a licensed professional engineer to assist project teams to create world class designs for new projects, alterations and redevelopments on a variety of projects including power, process, corporate, pipeline, airports, institutional, industrial, manufacturing, government and military facilities. The Assistant Geotechnical Engineer will work with the project team throughout the design and construction process, adapting geotechnical plans according to budget constraints, design factors or client needs. Field assignment time will be dependent upon project requirements.

• Assists with field reconnaissance and geological research to evaluate site-specific geologic and hydrogeologic conditions and risks.

• Assists with development of work scopes and subcontracts for subsurface investigations in support of geotechnical design and evaluation efforts.

• Assists with performance of research and compiles project related data as required by the project team.

• Assists with compiling geotechnical data, boring logs and subsurface profiles.

• Assists with field observation of site investigation activities.

• Assists in the geotechnical design of projects from the conceptual phase through design completion.

• Assists in geotechnical hazard assessments, design of shallow and deep foundations, settlement analysis, slope stability analyses, and earthwork.

• Assists in the preparation and review of engineering design calculations, reports, specifications and construction documents, and other technical documents as needed.

• Applies basic knowledge of commonly used geotechnical engineering/design concepts, principles, practices, codes, and procedures within the geotechnical engineering services industry.

• Assists with client presentations and contract administration.

• Performs geotechnical-related construction observation during the construction phase of projects.

• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Complies with all policies and standards.

Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or a related field from a recognized, accredited program. ABET accreditation strongly preferred.

• A master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering or Civil Engineering (with Geotechnical Emphasis) from a recognized, accredited program strongly preferred. ABET accreditation strongly preferred.

• Prior internship and/or related consulting experience preferred.

• Basic knowledge in standard geotechnical engineering techniques, principles and procedures.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Ability to work methodically and analytically in a quantitative problem-solving environment and demonstrated critical thinking skills.

• Proficient computer skills (e.g. Microsoft Office Suite).

• Basic geotechnical software skills preferred, including Ensoft LPILE, slope stability (GeoStudio or UTEXAS4), liquefaction analysis software, excavation support and wall design software.

• Strong attention to detail, facilitation, team building, collaboration, organization and problem-solving skills. Demonstrated leadership skills.

• Engineers in Training-EIT Certification preferred.

• Minimum of a 3.0 GPA strongly preferred.

• Involvement on campus or in the community preferred.

• Candidates must be legally authorized to work permanently (i.e., without time limitations, without restrictions or without need for work sponsorship) in the country where this position is located.

Compensation

$75,000.00-110,000.00 Yearly

The expected compensation range for this position is displayed in compliance with all local/state regulations. The expected compensation range for this position is based on a number of factors, including but not limited to: individual education, qualifications, prior work experience and work location. The total annual compensation package will consist of a base salary and eligibility to participate in our discretionary year-end incentive bonus program.

Benefits

Our extensive benefits package takes care of you so that you can focus on doing great work. From insurance and disability to time off and wellness programs, we provide the tools to meet your needs. As part of being 100% employee-owned, eligible employees participate in our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) in addition to our 401(k) retirement program. For more information, please visit the Benefits & Wellness page.

This job posting will remain open a minimum of 72 hours and on an ongoing basis until filled.

EEO/Disabled/Veterans

Job

Geotechnical Engineering

Primary Location

US-IL-Chicago

Schedule

Full-time

Travel

Yes, 25 % of the Time

Req ID

263926

Job Hire Type

New Grad #LI-JF #M&S