Geotechnical Project Engineer

S&ME; Columbia (SC); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental & Vision Plans

Wellness Program

Pet Insurance

401(k) Retirement Plan

Paid Time Off (PTO)

Tuition Reimbursement

Company Vehicle & Fuel Card

$2,000 Employee Referral Bonuses

Job summary

S&ME is looking for a Geotechnical Project Engineer to join our Columbia, South Carolina office. The role involves managing geotechnical projects from planning to completion, analyzing data for practical recommendations, and collaborating with project managers and clients. Ideal candidates should possess a Bachelor's degree in a relevant engineering field and have 4+ years of experience. Your growth and success are our priority, with a comprehensive benefits package and a strong focus on mentorship and career development.

Qualifications

• 4+ years of related geotechnical engineering experience.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license or ability to obtain within 6 months.

Responsibilities

• Support and manage geotechnical investigations.
• Analyze soil and groundwater data for recommendations.
• Prepare geotechnical engineering reports and calculations.
• Coordinate with project staff and clients.
• Mentor junior staff and promote safety.

Skills

Geotechnical Engineering

Project Management

Data Analysis

Client Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Civil, Geotechnical, Mining, or related field

Job description

Requisition Number: 2026-1610-07

S&ME is seeking a Geotechnical Project Engineer to join our Geotechnical team, supporting work across our Columbia, South Carolina, and Augusta, Georgia offices. This role offers regional project exposure, technical growth, and the opportunity to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams on a wide range of geotechnical projects.

As a Geotechnical Project Engineer, you will support and lead geotechnical engineering projects from planning through completion, applying sound engineering judgment to real‑world site and subsurface conditions. You'll work closely with project managers, field and laboratory teams, and clients to analyze data, develop practical recommendations, and deliver clear, timely reports that support building and infrastructure projects across public and private sectors. This role blends technical analysis, project coordination, and client interaction, offering hands‑on experience and growth alongside experienced geotechnical professionals.

Your Day-to-Day

• Project Coordination & Execution: Support and manage geotechnical investigations by coordinating subsurface explorations, field observations, and laboratory testing to meet project scope, schedule, and budget.
• Technical Analysis & Engineering Judgment: Analyze soil, rock, and groundwater data to develop practical geotechnical recommendations for foundations, earthwork, pavements, and site development.
• Reporting & Documentation: Prepare geotechnical engineering reports, calculations, and design recommendations that clearly communicate findings, risks, and assumptions to clients and project teams.
• Client & Team Collaboration: Coordinate with project managers, field staff, subcontractors, and clients to address project questions, changing conditions, and technical challenges.
• Mentorship & Safety Focus: Work alongside and mentor junior staff while promoting a strong safety, quality, and professional development culture.

What You Bring

• Bachelor's degree in Civil, Geotechnical, Mining, or a related engineering field.
• 4+ years of related geotechnical engineering experience, which preferably includes some extent of project management responsibilities.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license or the ability to obtain within 6 months of hire.

We Are S&ME

At S&ME, we’re committed to your growth, professionally and personally. With over 50 years of experience delivering innovative solutions in geotechnical, civil, environmental, and construction materials engineering, we’ve built a strong foundation for long-term careers. Our team of 1,000+ employee‑owners across 10+ states works together to create meaningful impact for our clients and communities. When you join S&ME, you become part of a collaborative, honest, and people‑focused culture that invests in your success. We offer exciting project opportunities, ongoing training, and a comprehensive benefits package to support you and your family. This is more than a job; it’s a place to grow, thrive, and build a future.

Here’s what you can look forward to

• Medical, Dental & Vision Plans with HSA and FSA options.
• Wellness Program – $50 off per month on your 2027 premiums.
• Pet Insurance.
• Term Life & Long‑Term Care Coverage – available Spring 2026.
• 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.
• Mentorship & Career Development Programs.
• Credential Incentive Program – get rewarded for advancing your skills.
• Tuition Reimbursement.
• Employee Recognition Program.
• Company Vehicle & Fuel Card – for project‑based roles.
• $2,000 Employee Referral Bonuses – and more!

If you are seeking a challenging and rewarding career with a firm committed to our employees and providing quality service to our clients, join our team.

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.