Senior Geotechnical Engineer: Lead Projects & Mentorship

Certerra; Reno (NV); On-site; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Certerra is seeking a Senior Geotechnical Engineer to lead complex investigations and design services across Northern Nevada and beyond. You will mentor junior staff, manage project deliverables from exploration through final reporting, and contribute to client relationships and business development.

The role requires strong technical leadership in subsurface investigation, slope stability, and earthwork; PE licensure in Nevada or ability to obtain within 6 months is required.

Qualifications

• ABET-accredited B.S. in Civil/Geotechnical/Geological Engineering.
• M.S. in Geotechnical Engineering or related field preferred.
• Nevada PE licensure or ability to obtain within 6 months of hire.
• PG license and other certifications valued (GEER, ICC, ASCE).
• 12+ years of directly relevant geotechnical engineering experience may substitute for an advanced degree.
• 8–15 years of progressive geotechnical engineering experience with subsurface investigation, slope stability, foundation design, and earthwork construction; Nevada/Western U.S. preferred.

Responsibilities

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

Education

B.S. in Civil Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, or Geological Engineering from an ABET-accredited institution

M.S. in Geotechnical Engineering or related field preferred

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

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

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

8–15 years of progressive geotechnical engineering experience; Nevada/Western U.S. preferred

Job description

Certerra is seeking a Senior Geotechnical Engineer to lead complex investigations and design services across Northern Nevada and beyond. You will mentor junior staff, manage project deliverables from exploration through final reporting, and contribute to client relationships and business development.

The role requires strong technical leadership in subsurface investigation, slope stability, and earthwork; PE licensure in Nevada or ability to obtain within 6 months is required.