Senior Geotechnical Engineer

Thompson Engineering; Knoxville (TN); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Thompson Engineering is seeking a Senior Engineer – Geotechnical to join our growing Geotechnical Engineering Team as a seller-doer. This position combines strong technical expertise with proven ability to develop client relationships, generate new business, and lead project execution in the Southeast.

The Senior Geotechnical Engineer will oversee investigations, analyses, and delivery while driving growth across markets.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or related field.
• PE license required.
• Minimum 10 years of progressive geotechnical engineering experience with BD & client management.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain relationships with public and private sector clients to identify and secure opportunities.

Skills

Geotechnical analysis

Foundation design

Slope stability

Earthwork

Proposal development

Project management

Client relationship management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering

Tools

GeoStudio

gINT

LPILE

GROUP

AutoCAD Civil 3D

Job description

Thompson Engineering is seeking a Senior Engineer – Geotechnical to join our growing Geotechnical Engineering Team as a seller-doer. This position is ideal for an experienced geotechnical engineer who combines strong technical expertise with a proven ability to develop client relationships, generate new business, and lead project execution. The Senior Geotechnical Engineer will be responsible for expanding Thompson Engineering's geotechnical practice by identifying opportunities, cultivating new and existing client relationships, preparing proposals, and delivering exceptional engineering services. The successful candidate will serve as both a trusted technical advisor and business partner, overseeing geotechnical investigations, engineering analyses, and project delivery while driving growth throughout the and Southeast.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with public and private sector clients to identify and secure new business opportunities.
• Lead business development efforts including client meetings, networking, proposal preparation, presentations, and contract negotiations.
• Identify opportunities for cross-selling Thompson Engineering's multidisciplinary services.
• Manage geotechnical projects from proposal through final deliverable, ensuring client satisfaction, quality, schedule, and profitability.
• Plan and oversee subsurface investigations for transportation, commercial, industrial, energy, marine, and municipal infrastructure projects.
• Perform and review geotechnical engineering analyses including:
• Foundation design
• Slope stability evaluations
• Settlement analysis
• Retaining wall design
• Earthwork recommendations
• Ground improvement evaluations
• Pavement support recommendations

Interpret field exploration and laboratory testing results to develop practical engineering recommendations. Prepare and review geotechnical reports, engineering calculations, specifications, and technical documentation. Provide engineering support during construction, including field observations, problem resolution, and contractor coordination. Mentor and develop junior engineers and technical staff while promoting technical excellence. Collaborate with structural, civil, environmental, and construction professionals to deliver integrated project solutions. Maintain compliance with applicable building codes, industry standards, and state and federal regulations. Serve as Engineer of Record when appropriate and ensure the technical quality of all deliverables. Support strategic growth initiatives and assist leadership in expanding Thompson Engineering's geotechnical services throughout existing and emerging markets.

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or other applicable engineering program

Experience

• Minimum 10 years of progressive geotechnical engineering experience.
• Demonstrated success in business development, client relationship management, and project delivery.
• Experience managing energy, transportation, commercial, industrial, municipal, and infrastructure projects preferred.

Licensure

• Current Professional Engineer (PE) license required.

Proficient in

• Geotechnical engineering analysis and foundation design
• Geotechnical engineering software (GeoStudio, gINT, LPILE, GROUP, or similar)
• AutoCAD Civil 3D (preferred)
• Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook)
• Proposal development and project budgeting
• Client relationship management

Physical Requirements

• Ability to perform occasional field work on active construction sites and undeveloped properties.
• Ability to traverse uneven terrain and work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to sit and operate a computer for extended periods.
• Ability to work flexible schedules as needed.

About Thompson Engineering

Founded in 1953, Thompson Engineering provides quality assurance and professional services for construction projects supporting industrial, infrastructure, and community development. Our services include drilling, materials testing, construction inspection, chemistry laboratory services, engineering design, environmental assessments, surveying, geotechnical studies, and construction management.

Today, Thompson Engineering is recognized for leadership on projects that define skylines, coastlines, and transportation networks across the Southeast. From project planning and design through construction and completion, we deliver innovative solutions to complex infrastructure and building challenges for industrial, commercial, transportation, federal, and municipal clients.

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.