Staff Geotechnical Engineer

Earthmech; Hayward (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance

401(k) retirement plan with company contribution

Paid time off and holidays

Professional development support

Job summary

A geotechnical engineering firm is seeking a Staff Geotechnical Engineer to join their team in California. This position is ideal for recent graduates or early-career professionals eager to gain hands-on experience. You will assist in geotechnical field investigations, analyze data, and collaborate closely with experienced engineers on infrastructure projects. A Bachelor’s degree in Civil or Geotechnical Engineering is required, along with strong communication and organizational skills. EMI offers a competitive compensation package and a supportive work environment.

Qualifications

• 0 to 3 years of relevant geotechnical engineering experience.
• EIT certification or eligibility to obtain within 6 months.
• Strong initiative and desire to learn.
• Strong technical writing, communication, and organizational skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Valid U.S. driver’s license (required for fieldwork and inter‑office travel).
• Authorization to work in the United States.

Responsibilities

• Assist in planning and executing geotechnical field investigations.
• Coordinate and review laboratory testing of soil and rock.
• Perform basic geotechnical analyses under supervision.
• Prepare data for geotechnical reports and boring logs.
• Participate in construction observation for projects.
• Participate in construction observation and field support for foundation and earthwork projects.
• Work collaboratively with project teams to ensure technical accuracy and timely delivery of work products.

Skills

Technical writing

Communication

Organizational skills

Proficiency in Microsoft Office

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Civil or Geotechnical Engineering

Tools

gINT

SLIDE

LPILE

SETTLE3D

AutoCAD

SHAFT

AutoCAD

MicroStation

Job description

Earth Mechanics, Inc. (EMI) is seeking a Staff Geotechnical Engineer to join our growing team. This position is ideal for a recent graduate or an early-career professional looking to gain hands‑on experience in geotechnical engineering through involvement in a variety of transportation infrastructure projects, including bridges, highways, rail and transit systems, airports, and flood control facilities.

As a Staff Geotechnical Engineer, you will work closely with experienced engineers and project managers, contributing to the planning, fieldwork, analysis, and reporting phases of geotechnical investigations. This role provides an excellent foundation for career development and long‑term professional growth within a collaborative, technically strong organization.

Qualifications & Skills

Key Responsibilities

Assist in planning and executing geotechnical field investigations, including drilling oversight, soil sampling, and in‑situ testing.

Coordinate and review laboratory testing of soil, rock, and other materials.

Perform basic geotechnical analyses under supervision, including settlement, bearing capacity, slope stability, and foundation design.

Prepare and organize data for geotechnical reports, figures, and boring logs.

Support senior staff in the preparation of geotechnical engineering reports and recommendations.

Participate in construction observation and field support for foundation and earthwork projects.

Work collaboratively with project teams to ensure technical accuracy and timely delivery of work products.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Civil or Geotechnical Engineering (Master’s degree preferred).

0 to 3 years of relevant geotechnical engineering experience (internship experience a plus).

EIT certification or eligibility to obtain within 6 months.

Strong technical writing, communication, and organizational skills.

Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

Valid U.S. driver’s license (required for fieldwork and inter‑office travel).

Authorization to work in the United States.

Preferred Qualifications

Familiarity with Caltrans or other public agency standards and procedures.

Basic knowledge of geotechnical software such as gINT, SLIDE, LPILE, SETTLE3D, APILE, or SHAFT.

Experience with AutoCAD or MicroStation drafting software.

Strong initiative and desire to learn within a team‑oriented environment.

Earth Mechanics, Inc. offers a competitive compensation package commensurate with experience and qualifications, along with a comprehensive benefits program, including:

Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance.

401(k) retirement plan with company contribution and profit‑sharing.

Paid time off and holidays.

Professional development support, including training, mentoring, and licensure assistance.

A supportive, team‑oriented environment that fosters technical excellence and career growth.

Why EMI

At EMI, we combine technical expertise with practical insight to deliver innovative geotechnical solutions for some of California’s most impactful infrastructure projects. From major transportation improvements to complex coastal and offshore challenges, our team is trusted to deliver precise, innovative, and lasting results.

At EMI, you’ll work alongside respected professionals in a collaborative, growth‑oriented environment where your contributions truly make a difference. We offer opportunities to learn from seasoned engineers, expand your technical expertise, and build a strong foundation for career growth. With competitive compensation, a legacy of engineering excellence, and projects that shape communities, EMI is the place to elevate your career.

About EMI

Founded in 1989, Earth Mechanics, Inc. (EMI) is a geotechnical engineering firm specializing in foundation design for coastal, offshore, and infrastructure projects. With decades of experience and a reputation for precision, EMI delivers innovative solutions to complex engineering challenges worldwide.