Entry-Level Geotechnical Engineer

S&ME; Knoxville (TN); On-site; USD 60,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

ESOP ownership

Mentorship program

Career growth

Competitive benefits

Project variety

Work-life balance

Community impact

Job summary

Join S&ME in Knoxville, Tennessee as an entry‑level Geotechnical Engineer to support civil, geotechnical and environmental projects, gaining real-world field and office experience under licensed professionals. You will participate in subsurface exploration, environmental investigations, construction support, and technical reporting.

We provide mentorship, training, and leadership opportunities within a 100% ESOP‑owned company, fostering career growth and community impact while delivering

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in civil/geotechnical engineering or geology.
• EIT certification or pursuing PE licensure.
• Interest in field and analytical work.
• Strong technical writing skills.

Responsibilities

• Support civil, geotechnical, and environmental projects.
• Conduct fieldwork including soil borings and monitoring.
• Analyze subsurface data and assist laboratory testing.
• Prepare data tables, figures, and reports.
• Coordinate with contractors, vendors, and clients.

Skills

Fieldwork

Data analysis

Report writing

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Civil or Geotechnical Engineering, Geology, Mining, or related field

Job description

Requisition Number: 2026-1430-08

Are you just starting or a recent or upcoming graduate looking to grow your career as a Geotechnical Engineer who thrives in a dynamic environment and values learning from experienced professionals? S&ME is seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic entry-level Geotechnical Engineer to join our team in Knoxville, Tennessee.

Why Work at S&ME?

• Employee Ownership: As a 100% employee-owned company, our ESOP gives you a personal stake in our success and the opportunity to build long-term wealth while helping shape our future.
• Career Growth: We invest in your success with mentorship, training, and leadership opportunities.
• Exciting Projects: Big or small, simple or complex, we do it all. Our projects are as diverse as they are exciting, so every day brings something new.
• Supportive Culture: Collaboration, respect, and positivity fuel our team environment.
• Flexibility: Work-life balance matters to us, helping you thrive inside and outside the office.
• Community Impact: Your work will directly improve the communities where we live, work, and play.

About The Role:

As an Entry-Level Geotechnical Engineer, you will support a wide range of civil, geotechnical, and environmental projects, learning from licensed Engineers and/or Geologist. You will gain real-world experience through a strong mix of fieldwork and office-based analysis, not being stuck behind a desk all day. As well as subsurface exploration, environmental investigations, construction support, and technical reporting.

• Field Investigations & Exploration: Conduct fieldwork including soil borings, drilling oversight, monitoring well installation, soil and rock classification, in-situ testing, and collection of soil, groundwater, and gas samples at project sites.
• Data Analysis & Technical Support: Analyze subsurface conditions, support laboratory testing programs, interpret geological and geotechnical data, and assist with engineering and environmental evaluations.
• Reporting & Documentation: Prepare data tables, figures, and graphical presentations; compare results to state and federal regulatory standards; and assist in writing clear, well-organized technical reports.
• Construction & Environmental Inspections: Perform construction and environmental inspections, document site conditions, and ensure compliance with project plans, specifications, and regulatory requirements.
• Collaboration & Communication: Coordinate with drilling contractors, laboratories, vendors, and project team members, and communicate effectively with internal staff and external clients.

About You:

• You have a Bachelor's Degree in Civil or Geotechnical Engineering, Geology, Mining, or a related field
• You have an Engineer in Training (EIT) certification or are on track to obtain with the desire to pursue PE licensure in the future
• You have a passion for Geotechnical solutions with a strong interest in field and analytical work
• You have basic technical writing skills at the college level

You Are Willing and Able to:

Perform the physical demands of the position with the use of company-provided Personal Protective Equipment such as:

• Working outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Walking over rough, uneven terrain and standing (potentially up to 12 hours a day)
• Routinely lifting and carrying 40-50lbs (field/laboratory samples and equipment)
• Working outside of normal business hours and traveling (typically out-of-town and/or overnight) as project needs arise

Grow With Us:

At S&ME, your career growth matters. You'll receive professional training, work on exciting projects, and be part of a company that truly invests in its people. This is more than a job; it's a chance to build a long-term career in the engineering and construction industry. S&ME provides a comprehensive benefits package to support you and your family, as well as career development resources. Come grow and thrive with us at S&ME!

• Medical, Dental & Vision Plans with HSA and FSA options
• 100% Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) with a 5% company contribution
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Paid Holidays and Paid Time Off (PTO) - with rollover options
• Paid Maternity/Parental Leave
• Employee Recognition Program
• Credential Incentive Program
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Company Vehicle with Fuel Card for Project-Based Work
• $2,000 Referral Bonuses & More!

Join us at S&ME!

This full-time role offers competitive pay based on experience. Candidates must comply with our Fleet Management, Substance Policy, and Reference Check requirements. Only candidates with valid employment eligibility (I-9) will be considered. Visa assistance is not available. S&ME reserves the right to hire internally or externally at any time. No candidate/recruiter calls, personal calls, or walk-ins are accepted.