Geotechnical Project Engineer

UES; Ashland (VA); Hybrid; USD 85,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

UES, based in Ashland, Virginia, is seeking a Geotechnical Project Engineer. The successful candidate will manage and execute geotechnical engineering projects from planning to completion, focusing on technical, budgetary, and regulatory compliance. Key responsibilities include developing project scopes, leading risk assessments, and coordinating with teams.

A Bachelor's degree in a relevant field and 3+ years of experience are required, along with a preference for PE licensure. The role offers a competitive salary range of $85,000 - $95,000 per year.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in geotechnical engineering.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred or ability to obtain.
• Proven track record of managing mid-to-large scale engineering projects.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement project scopes, budgets, and schedules.
• Ensure projects comply with industry standards and regulations.
• Lead risk assessments and geotechnical hazard evaluations.

Skills

Geotechnical engineering

Risk assessment

Project management

Analytical skills

Education

Bachelor in Civil Engineering, Geological Engineering, or similar

Job description

Geotechnical Project Engineer

The Geotechnical Project Engineer is responsible for managing and executing geotechnical engineering projects from planning through completion, ensuring adherence to technical, budgetary, and regulatory requirements. This role involves developing project scopes, budgets, and schedules; leading geotechnical analyses and risk assessments; and coordinating with internal teams, subcontractors, and clients to deliver high-quality results.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement project scopes, budgets, schedules, and deliverables to meet client and business objectives.
• Ensure projects are completed on time, within budget, and in compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements.
• Ensure compliance with geotechnical engineering best practices.
• Oversee quality control and adherence to best practices, industry standards (ASTM, AASHTO, FHWA, ASCE, etc.), and regulatory guidelines.
• Lead risk assessments and geotechnical hazard evaluations for infrastructure, environmental remediation, and construction projects.
• Coordinate with internal teams, subcontractors, and external stakeholders to ensure seamless project execution.
• Provide mentorship and training to junior engineers and field staff, fostering technical skill development.
• Work independently and collaboratively within office and field environments, adapting to dynamic project needs.
• Travel to project sites as needed to conduct inspections, assessments, and provide engineering support.
• Ensure strict adherence to company safety protocols, OSHA regulations, and environmental requirements, promoting a culture of workplace safety and compliance.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor in Civil Engineering, Geological Engineering, Geology, or similar is required.
• 3+ years of experience in geotechnical engineering.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred or ability to obtain.
• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is a plus but not required.
• Proven track record of managing mid-to-large scale engineering projects from inception to completion.
• Experience in geotechnical site investigations, laboratory testing, engineering design, and construction oversight.
• Experience developing project scopes, budgets, schedules, and risk assessments for infrastructure, environmental, or construction projects.
• Familiarity with industry standards and regulations (ASTM, AASHTO, FHWA, ASCE, DOT, OSHA, etc.).
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to make data‑driven decisions.
• Ability to lead project teams, mentor junior engineers, and coordinate multidisciplinary efforts.
• Proven experience in client communication, stakeholder engagement, and contract negotiations.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for technical reporting, proposal writing, and presentations.

Travel Requirements

This position requires moderate travel, approximately up to 40% of the time, in support of business objectives and client engagements. Travel may be both scheduled and on short notice, depending on project needs. Destinations typically include job sites, field locations, or regional offices, where work may be conducted in outdoor or operational environments. Adherence to all company safety protocols and use of PPE is required during travel and on-site work.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

• This position operates in a hybrid work environment, requiring flexibility to work effectively from both a professional office and field work site setting.
• On‑site office requirements:
  • Work is performed at a desk for extended periods using a computer, phone, and standard office equipment in a climate‑controlled office environment.
  • Regular in‑person communication with team members, clients, and stakeholders is required.
  • Physical demands may include sitting for long durations, occasional standing, walking, bending, and lifting of materials up to 15 pounds.
• Field environment:
  • Work at outdoor sites including wetlands, forests, grasslands, construction zones, and undeveloped land.
  • Travel on foot across uneven, rugged, or obstructed terrain, sometimes in areas inaccessible by vehicle.
  • Exposure to varying weather conditions including heat, cold, humidity, rain, or sun.
  • Possible presence of insects, animals, or natural and man‑made hazards in field environments.
• Physical requirements:
  • Ability to lift and carry between 35–75 lbs. of equipment or samples over distances up to 75 feet.
  • Ability to stand, walk, drive, and operate lab and field equipment for extended periods.
  • Ability to bend, twist, reach, stoop, kneel, climb, and balance as needed during both lab and fieldwork.
  • Ability to communicate effectively in both verbal and written formats in varied environments, often while wearing PPE.
  • Ability to use sensory capabilities to see (including close and distant vision, color perception, depth perception, and focus) and smell for observation and safety purposes.

EEO Statement

UES is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is proud to recruit the most qualified candidates.

Posted Salary Range

USD $85,000.00 - USD $95,000.00 /Yr.