Engineer I - Geotechnical

City-of-Portland,-Oregon; Portland (OR); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Portland is seeking a Geotechnical Engineer to join the Site Development Section of the Building Code Review Division. You will review complex geotechnical aspects of developments, including grading, foundations and slope hazards, to ensure compliance with construction codes and engineering standards.

You will also assess flood, earthquake and erosion hazards, review related reports, and collaborate with architects, engineers, contractors and residents to resolve development issues

Qualifications

• Knowledge of civil and geotechnical engineering principles, materials, construction methods, and regulations.
• Knowledge of soil mechanics and geotechnical practices in earthquake engineering.
• Ability to review complex plans, reports, and calculations; research issues; analyze and propose solutions.
• Ability to clearly communicate technical information to non-technical audiences.
• Ability to collaborate with residents, engineers, and developers to resolve issues.

Responsibilities

• Review geotechnical engineering, engineering geology and site-specific seismic hazard reports.
• Conduct reconnaissance-level investigations of proposed development properties.
• Analyze site conditions and perform engineering calculations to ensure conformance with codes and standards.

Skills

Civil & geotechnical knowledge

Seismic hazard awareness

Analytical problem solving

Effective communication

Collaborative teamwork

Education

Professional Engineer (PE) license

Job description

Job Appointment: Full time, Regular.

Work Schedule: Monday – Friday, 8am-5pm. Work hours will vary to meet business needs.

Work Location: Hybrid; Employees are expected work on site at least 50% of the time. Remote work must be performed within Oregon or Washington. In-person work to be conducted at The 1900 Building, 1900 SW 4th Avenue.

Union Representation: PROTEC-17. To view current labor agreements, click here.

Starting Pay: The City of Portland follows the Oregon Equal Pay Act. Your salary is determined based on the experience listed in your resume that is directly related and equivalent to the position for which you are applying.

Position Summary:

The City of Portland’s Permitting & Development team is seeking a skilled Geotechnical Engineer to join the Site Development Section of the Building Code Review Division. In this role, you will be responsible for the review of proposed developments including construction plans, specifications and engineering calculations for structures, grading and other aspects for conformance with construction codes, regulations, and engineering standards of practice. A significant portion of the work involves: reviewing complex civil and/or geotechnical engineering features of development including steep slope hazards; flood, earthquake and erosion hazards; deep foundations; retaining walls, and excavation shoring.

This work also includes:

• reviewing geotechnical engineering, engineering geology and site-specific seismic hazard reports;
• performing reconnaissance level investigations of proposed development properties; and
• analyzing site conditions and performing engineering calculations.

You will exercise independent judgment, while also working collaboratively with architects, engineers, contractors, developers and residents to resolve development issues, and assist in the development of policies, standards and codes related to the civil and/or geotechnical aspects of development. All Portland Permitting & Development staff will also meet the Bureau's expectations of providing excellent customer service in an equitable manner to meet the needs of the City of Portland's community.

Virtual Meet & Greet Opportunity

Meet the hiring manager and the senior recruiter to learn more about this position, how to apply, and what it's like to work with the City of Portland.

Date: Wednesday, August 19, 2026

Time: 5:30 PM Pacific Time

Registration Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/nqHrP5EWSDSsrr54qh5rYQ

(Note: Al Notetaking apps are not permitted. If you need ADA accommodations, please contact the recruiter below.)

The following minimum qualifications are required:

1. Knowledge of civil and geotechnical engineering principles, materials, construction methods, industry best practices, and relevant City, State, and Federal regulations.
2. Knowledge of the geotechnical aspects of construction as they relate to the design, and construction of development and structures and the associated building and development codes and professional standards of practice.
3. Knowledge of soil mechanics and geotechnical practices used in earthquake engineering.
4. Ability to review and interpret complex engineering plans, reports, and calculations; research technical issues; analyze problems; compare alternatives; and recommend effective solutions.
5. Ability to clearly communicate technical information to non-technical audiences, including policymakers and community members.
6. Ability to engage in collaborative problem-solving and conflict resolution; to represent the City; and to partner effectively with residents, community groups, and development professionals.

Applicants must also possess:

• Certificate of registration as a Professional Engineer; and must possess an Oregon PE license within six months of hire.
• A valid state driver's license and an acceptable driving record.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Erosion and Sediment Control and/or Floodplain Development

How to Apply:

• Submit your resume and responses to supplemental questions by the closing date.
• Submit Veterans’ Preference documents, if applicable.
• Click here for application tips for resume, supplemental question response and/or cover letter.

What to Expect:

1. Application Review –(Week of August 31): We'll review your application materials to ensure you meet the minimum qualifications listed above.
2. Notice/Feedback – (Week of September 7):You will receive an email when the minimum qualification review is complete. If you disagree with your evaluation results, you may request a review within 14 days of the email notice, per City Administrative Rule 3.01.

1. Selection Process –(Mid-September): The hiring bureau will review interested and qualified applications, conduct interviews, and check references.
2. Conditional Job Offer – (Late September): Final candidates may undergo a background or driving record check.

Learn More About:

• How to Apply Videos and Workshops
• City of Portland Core Values
• HRAR-3.01 - Recruitment Processes
• Veteran Preference Information
• Total Compensation and Benefits
• Language Pay Differential Eligibility

We’re committed to providing a fair, inclusive, and accessible hiring process. If you need assistance with your application or would like to request a reasonable accommodation due to a disability, pregnancy, or religious belief, please contact the recruiter listed below.

Questions? We\'re here to help! If you have questions about this recruitment or need assistance, contact:

Tamela Ressler, Senior Recruiter [e-mail] Bureau of Human Resources