Senior Geotechnical Engineer

Certerra; Reno (NV); On-site; USD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Certerra in Reno, NV seeks a Senior Geotechnical Engineer to lead complex investigations, supervise field teams, and deliver technically robust reports for major regional projects.

The role requires a Nevada PE license, 8–15 years of geotechnical experience, and a proven background in foundation design, slope stability, and earthwork. An MS, PG, or ICC credentials are valued.

You will mentor staff and coordinate with clients and regulators to ensure safe, compliant, and on-time delivery.

Qualifications

• ABET-accredited B.S. in Civil/Geotechnical/Geological Engineering is required.
• M.S. in Geotechnical Engineering or related field preferred.
• Nevada PE licensure or ability to obtain within 6 months of hire is required.
• PG license and ICC Special Inspector credentials are valued.
• 12+ years of geotechnical experience may substitute for an advanced degree.
• 8–15 years of progressive geotechnical engineering experience with subsurface investigation, slope stability, foundation design, and earthwork is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead geotechnical investigations including subsurface exploration programs, laboratory testing, and interpretation of geologic and geotechnical data.
• Prepare and review geotechnical reports with foundation recommendations, slope stability analyses, seismic hazard evaluations, and earthwork specifications.
• Mentor junior engineers, geologists, and field technicians.
• Perform and direct construction observation and testing services, including oversight of drilling, sampling, and instrumentation activities.
• Manage multiple concurrent geotechnical projects from scoping to closeout; prepare scopes of work and schedules; ensure on-time, within-budget delivery.
• Coordinate with clients, subconsultants, regulatory agencies, and internal project teams throughout all phases.

Education

B.S. in Civil/Geotechnical/Geological Engineering (ABET-accredited)

M.S. in Geotechnical Engineering or related field

Tools

Nevada PE license

PG license

ICC Special Inspector

Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Senior Geotechnical Engineer

Regular Full-time Management Reno, Reno, NV, US

Certerra is a nationally recognized provider of engineering, testing, inspection, and certification services supporting innovation, quality assurance, and resilient infrastructure. With over 1,800 professionals nationwide, we combine technical expertise with practical field knowledge to ensure the communities we serve are built to last.

We are seeking a seasoned geotechnical professional to join our growing team in Reno, NV area. As we continue to expand in the region, we are looking for a Senior Geotechnical Engineer to play a key role in supporting and leading our efforts. Our current backlog includes several large, landmark multi-year projects, offering long-term stability and the opportunity to be deeply involved in meaningful, high-impact career.

If you’re looking for a company that invests in your growth and gives you exposure to meaningful, high-impactprojects, we want to talk to you.

Duties:

Technical Leadership

• Lead geotechnical investigations including subsurface exploration programs, laboratory testing, and interpretation of geologic and geotechnical data
• Prepare and review geotechnical reports including foundation recommendations, slope stability analyses, seismic hazard evaluations, and earthwork specifications
• Serve as senior technical resource and mentor for junior engineers, geologists, and field technicians
• Perform and direct construction observation and testing services, including oversight of drilling, sampling, and instrumentation activities.

Project Management

• Manage multiple concurrent geotechnical projects from scoping and proposal development through field work, reporting, and project closeout
• Prepare scopes of work, fee estimates, and project schedules; ensure projects are delivered on time and within budget
• Coordinate with clients, subconsultants, regulatory agencies, and internal project teams throughout all project phases

Business Development & Marketing

• Support preparation of proposals, qualifications packages, and client presentations for new project opportunities
• Develop and maintain positive relationships with existing and prospective clients, contractors, and industry partners
• Represent the company at industry events, conferences, and professional organizations to grow the firm’s regional presence

Staff Management

• Provide technical guidance, training, and performance feedback to junior and mid-level engineers and field staff
• Conduct technical reviews and QA/QC of reports, drawings, and calculations prepared by other staff members
• Track invoicing, accounts receivable, and project cost control

Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure work complies with applicable codes, standards, and regulations
• Manage professional liability and project risk

Education/Qualifications:

• Minimum Degree Requirement: B.S. in Civil Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, or Geological Engineering from an ABET-accredited institution
• Preferred / Advanced Degrees: M.S. in Geotechnical Engineering or related field preferred

Professional Licensure:

• Professional Engineer (PE) license required in Nevada, or ability to obtain Nevada PE licensure within 6 months of hire

Additional Certifications (Valued but not required):

• Professional Geologist (PG) license
• ICC Special Inspector certification; ASCE membership

Experience in Lieu of Advanced Degree:

• 12+ years of directly relevant geotechnical engineering experience may substitute for an advanced degree

Typical Experience Range at This Level:

• 8–15 years of progressive geotechnical engineering experience, with demonstrated expertise in subsurface investigation, slope stability, foundation design, and earthwork construction; prior experience in Nevada or the Western U.S. preferred

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. This Company is dedicated to both the letter and the spirit of the equal opportunity employment laws. All applicants and all employees will be evaluated based on their ability, competence, and performance of the essential functions of their positions. There will be no discrimination based on race, sex, national origin, religion, age 40 and over, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, or any other classification which may be protected by federal, state, or local laws. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, we specifically offer equal opportunity for all employees or job applicants who may have a physical or mental disability. Such people will be hired based on their ability to perform the essential functions of the job in question. Likewise, their work will be evaluated on their performance of these essential functions. We will offer reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities, to the extent that Company resources allow without undue hardship. As part of our equal employment policy, there will be no wage differentials based on gender, between men and women employed in the same establishment, on jobs that require equal skill, effort, and responsibility, and which are performed under similar working conditions.