Geotechnical Engineer I — Field, Design & Projects

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

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.