Geotechnical Engineer

HDR, Inc.; Orlando (FL); On-site; USD 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm is seeking a Geotechnical Engineer in Orlando, Florida. The role involves providing support through all project phases, from planning and design to construction. Responsibilities include reviewing geotechnical designs, field oversight during installations, and ensuring quality assurance. Candidates should have a Bachelor's degree and 4+ years of relevant experience, along with strong communication and problem-solving skills. The position emphasizes active participation in team culture and ongoing improvements in geotechnical processes.

Qualifications

• 4+ years of geotechnical engineering experience.
• Knowledge of foundation systems and soil behavior.
• Ability to interpret construction documents.

Responsibilities

• Review geotechnical design submittals for compliance.
• Provide field support and oversight during installation.
• Coordinate geotechnical testing activities.

Skills

Geotechnical engineering

Risk reduction

Communication skills

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

GeoStudio

MicroStation

Bentley suite

Job description

The Position:

The Geotechnical Engineer supports geotechnical elements of projects across our client's systems through different phases of it, including, but not limited to planning, design and construction phases. This role works closely with the Materials Operation Engineer, our client's Geotechnical Engineer Lead, Other districts DGEs, CEI teams, and project staff to provide timely technical input, support field operations, and help resolve geotechnical issues and emergencies.

The position is focused on practical application of geotechnical engineering in both design and construction environment, contributing to quality assurance, risk reduction, and alignment between design intent, applicable codes and standards, and field execution.

Core Responsibilities

1. Geotechnical Support to Design

• Review geotechnical design submittals (plans, reports, calculations) for compliance with FDOT standards
• Provide comments on shop drawings and geotechnical-related design elements to support constructability
• Assist in review of geotechnical scope elements and identify potential risks or gaps early in design
• Support evaluation of Cost Saving Initiatives (CSI) and alternative technical concepts

2. Construction Support & Field Oversight

• Provide field support during installation of geotechnical elements including:
  • Piles, drilled shafts, and auger cast piles
  • Retaining walls and soil anchor systems
• Assist CEI staff with interpretation of plans, specs, and geotechnical requirements
• Participate in or support pre-construction and pre-operation meetings to clarify expectations
• Observe field activities and identify non-conformance or potential issues

3. Testing, Evaluation & Documentation

• Coordinate and review geotechnical testing activities, including:
  • PDA testing and CAPWAP analysis
  • CSL and thermal integrity testing
  • Vibration monitoring and instrumentation
• Review foundation logs, installation records, and certification packages for completeness and accuracy
• Assist in evaluating test results and supporting recommendations for foundation performance

4. Quality Assurance & Issue Resolution

• Support geotechnical QA efforts through field reviews, documentation checks, and coordination with CEI
• Identify and help resolve geotechnical issues encountered during construction
• Assist in evaluating non-conformance issues and recommending corrective actions
• Provide technical input on geotechnical-related claims or disputes

5. Coordination & Program Support

• Coordinate with geotechnical subconsultants, testing firms, and laboratories
• Interface with FDOT District Materials, State Materials Office, and project stakeholders
• Support consistent communication across design, construction, and materials teams
• Contribute to improving geotechnical processes, documentation, and field practices

Key Outputs (What This Role Produces)

• Clear, actionable geotechnical review comments
• Evaluated test results with supporting recommendations
• Field observations and QA documentation
• Timely technical input that supports design development and construction progress and reduces risk

Preferred Qualifications

• A minimum of 4 years of geotechnical engineering experience
• Working knowledge of geotechnical principles, foundation systems, and soil behavior
• Familiarity with FDOT standards, specifications, and testing procedures
• Ability to interpret construction documents and technical data
• Strong communication and coordination skills in a field environment
• Ability to work independently while supporting a broader team structure
• Practical problem‑solving mindset focused on constructability and risk reduction

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree
• Requires professional engineering license recognized by the licensing board for the location of the position offered. Example: Professional Engineer (PE or P.Eng) license.
• Previous experience with Microsoft Office applications, MicroStation or other software as appropriate
• Experience with GeoStudio/Ensoft slope stability, settlement, seepage and deep foundation response software, as appropriate
• Experience with Bentley suite of geotechnical data management and visualization software (gINT/OpenGround/LeapFrog)
• An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee‑owned culture is a must

Location: Orlando, Florida, United States

Other Locations: Fort Lauderdale, Florida, United States