Senior Geotechnical Lead - Dams & Levee Projects

Terracon; Monterey (CA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

Terracon is seeking a Senior Geotechnical Engineer to support dams, levees, flood control, and water resources infrastructure in Northern and Central California. The role involves leading investigations, developing exploration programs, and providing design and technical leadership across multiple offices (Sacramento, Lodi, Concord, San Jose).

Experience with DSOD, DWR, CVFPB, USACE, or similar agencies is strongly preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering; Master’s degree preferred.
• 8–11 years of experience.
• California PE registration required; California GE registration strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated experience with dam, levee, flood control, water resources, or similar public infrastructure projects.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to explain geotechnical issues to diverse stakeholders.
• Valid driver’s license with acceptable violation history.

Responsibilities

• Lead safety efforts for project teams and ensure field and office work follow safety rules.
• Serve as senior technical lead or project manager for geotechnical investigations and design support.
• Develop and implement subsurface exploration programs and construction-phase observation programs.
• Lead geotechnical work on large projects or oversee geotechnical work on moderate projects.
• Plan, schedule, conduct, and coordinate engineering work involving geotechnical practices.
• Prepare, review, and sign geotechnical reports, calculations, and construction recommendations.
• Provide senior technical review for analyses, reports, and submittals for dams, levees, and flood infrastructure.
• Support business development by maintaining client relationships and preparing scopes and fees.
• Mentor and train staff engineers and project managers in geotechnical investigation and design.
• Communicate complex engineering issues clearly to clients, regulators, and project teams.

Skills

Geotechnical investigations

Technical leadership

Client communication

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Geotechnical software

Job description

Terracon is seeking a Senior Geotechnical Engineer to support dams, levees, flood control, and water resources infrastructure in Northern and Central California. The role involves leading investigations, developing exploration programs, and providing design and technical leadership across multiple offices (Sacramento, Lodi, Concord, San Jose).

Experience with DSOD, DWR, CVFPB, USACE, or similar agencies is strongly preferred.