Geotechnical Engineer II — Field & Design Projects

CDM Smith; Fairfax (VA); On-site; USD 79,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

CDM Smith is seeking a Junior Geotechnical Engineer to join our Fairfax, VA team. You will contribute to planning, investigations, analysis and design of geotechnical solutions across transportation, water, environmental, federal, and municipal projects in the Mid-Atlantic and beyond.

You will gain hands-on experience through office and field assignments, receive mentorship, and work with multidisciplinary teams to advance professional growth while supporting design and construction activities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Geotechnical, Civil, Mining or Geologic Engineering or related discipline.
• 1 year of related experience.
• Domestic and/or international travel may be required.

Responsibilities

• Support geotechnical investigations, subsurface explorations, and field data collection activities.
• Perform engineering analyses and contribute to the design of shallow and deep foundations, retaining structures, excavations, earth retention systems, dewatering systems, embankments, dams, levees, and geo-environmental projects.
• Evaluate geotechnical data and soil and rock properties to support project recommendations and design development.
• Assist with preparation of geotechnical reports, technical specifications, engineering calculations, and construction documents.
• Review designs for compliance with applicable federal, state, and local requirements, as well as CDM Smith quality standards.
• Participate in site visits, field observations, and construction‑phase services to verify design assumptions and support project execution.
• Utilize engineering software and geotechnical modeling tools to perform analyses and develop solutions.
• Collaborate with transportation, water, environmental, structural, and construction professionals across the Mid‑Atlantic region and throughout CDM Smith's national practice.
• Contribute to the development of technical papers, white papers, presentations, and knowledge‑sharing initiatives within the firm's Technical Knowledge Management (TKM) program.
• Support conference participation, professional organization involvement, and technical presentations that enhance both personal growth and the visibility of our geotechnical practice.

Skills

CADD 3D/4D

Engineering design principles

Microsoft Office

Written and verbal communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Geotechnical, Civil, Mining or Geologic Engineering

Job description

CDM Smith is seeking a Junior Geotechnical Engineer to join our Fairfax, VA team. You will contribute to planning, investigations, analysis and design of geotechnical solutions across transportation, water, environmental, federal, and municipal projects in the Mid-Atlantic and beyond.

You will gain hands-on experience through office and field assignments, receive mentorship, and work with multidisciplinary teams to advance professional growth while supporting design and construction activities.