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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Geotechnical Analyst

💰 $65,000 - $95,000

EngineeringGeotechnicalCivil EngineeringData AnalysisEnvironmental

🎯 Role Definition

We're looking for a highly motivated Geotechnical Analyst to play a pivotal role in our project lifecycle. In this position, you will be the backbone of our geotechnical engineering efforts, transforming raw field and laboratory data into actionable insights. You will work closely with Project Engineers and Geologists to interpret complex soil and rock mechanics, perform critical stability and settlement analyses, and contribute to the development of safe, efficient, and innovative foundation and earthwork designs. This role is ideal for an engineering professional who is passionate about data, enjoys solving complex geological puzzles, and wants to see their analysis directly impact the construction of significant infrastructure projects.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Graduate Geotechnical Engineer
  • Civil Engineering EIT (Engineer in Training)
  • Staff Geologist or Engineering Geologist

Advancement To:

  • Senior Geotechnical Analyst
  • Geotechnical Project Engineer
  • Geotechnical Project Manager

Lateral Moves:

  • Hydrogeologist
  • Environmental Engineer
  • Data Scientist (Construction/Engineering)

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Plan, coordinate, and oversee geotechnical site investigations, including soil borings, rock coring, test pits, and cone penetration testing (CPT) to define subsurface soil, rock, and groundwater conditions.
  • Analyze and interpret geological and geotechnical field data to develop detailed soil and rock stratigraphy and engineering parameters for design.
  • Perform comprehensive geotechnical engineering analyses, including slope stability, seepage, settlement, bearing capacity, and liquefaction potential using both manual calculations and specialized software.
  • Prepare and write detailed geotechnical engineering reports, memorandums, and technical specifications summarizing findings, conclusions, and design recommendations.
  • Develop and review geotechnical recommendations for the design of shallow and deep foundations, including spread footings, mat foundations, piles, and drilled shafts.
  • Evaluate and design earth-retaining structures, such as retaining walls, shoring systems, and mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) walls.
  • Conduct seismic hazard analyses, including site-specific ground motion studies and assessing impacts on structures and foundations.
  • Manage and process large datasets from laboratory testing of soil and rock samples, ensuring quality control and accurate parameter derivation.
  • Create and manage geotechnical databases and boring logs using software like gINT or LogPlot to ensure data integrity and accessibility for project teams.
  • Develop 2D and 3D subsurface models to visualize complex geological conditions and support integrated project design.
  • Provide geotechnical support and oversight during construction phases, including subgrade evaluations, foundation installation monitoring, and materials testing review.
  • Collaborate with structural and civil engineers to integrate geotechnical findings and recommendations into the overall project design.
  • Review construction plans and specifications to ensure they are in conformance with the geotechnical report recommendations.
  • Analyze the performance of geotechnical instrumentation and monitoring programs for projects involving deep excavations, tunnels, or embankments.
  • Evaluate the stability of natural slopes and embankments and design mitigation measures for potential geohazards like landslides.
  • Perform pavement design analyses and provide recommendations for subgrade preparation and pavement section thickness.
  • Assist in the preparation of project proposals, developing scopes of work, and estimating budgets for the geotechnical aspects of a project.
  • Conduct forensic geotechnical investigations to determine the cause of foundation or earthwork failures and develop remedial solutions.
  • Utilize GIS tools to map geological features, site investigation locations, and geohazard risks for regional or large-scale projects.
  • Stay current with advancements in geotechnical engineering, materials, and analysis techniques through professional development and research.

Secondary Functions

  • Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior engineers, technicians, and interns within the geotechnical team.
  • Support senior staff and project managers with client communication and attendance at project meetings.
  • Assist the business development team by providing technical input for Statements of Qualification (SOQs) and project interviews.
  • Contribute to the continuous improvement of internal technical standards, procedures, and analysis tools.
  • Support ad-hoc data requests and exploratory data analysis for new ventures or preliminary project assessments.
  • Contribute to the organization's data strategy and roadmap.
  • Collaborate with business units to translate data needs into engineering requirements.
  • Participate in project planning and review meetings, representing the geotechnical discipline.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Geotechnical Analysis Software: Strong proficiency in geotechnical software such as GeoStudio (SLOPE/W, SEEP/W), PLAXIS (2D/3D), LPILE, and Rocscience (Slide, RS2).
  • Data Management: Experience with geotechnical data management software, specifically gINT or LogPlot for creating boring logs and subsurface profiles.
  • CAD & GIS: Competency in using AutoCAD/Civil 3D for design integration and ArcGIS for spatial analysis and mapping.
  • Soil & Rock Mechanics: Deep understanding of the principles of soil mechanics, rock mechanics, and foundation engineering.
  • Laboratory & Field Testing: Familiarity with standard geotechnical field investigation techniques (SPT, CPT, etc.) and laboratory testing procedures (ASTM/AASHTO).
  • Data Analysis: Proficiency in using Microsoft Excel for complex data analysis; experience with Python or R for scripting and data visualization is a significant plus.

Soft Skills

  • Analytical & Problem-Solving: A strong aptitude for identifying, analyzing, and solving complex technical problems with a high degree of accuracy.
  • Written Communication: Excellent ability to write clear, concise, and comprehensive technical reports and correspondence for various audiences.
  • Verbal Communication: Ability to effectively communicate complex technical concepts to clients, contractors, and multidisciplinary team members.
  • Attention to Detail: Meticulous approach to data analysis, calculations, and report preparation to ensure quality and precision.
  • Teamwork & Collaboration: Proven ability to work effectively within a collaborative, fast-paced project team environment.
  • Project Management: Strong organizational skills to manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously, meeting deadlines and budgets.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Civil Engineering with a geotechnical emphasis or a related field.

Preferred Education:

  • Master of Science (M.S.) degree in Geotechnical Engineering or Geological Engineering.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Civil Engineering
  • Geotechnical Engineering
  • Geological Engineering
  • Geology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 2-7 years of progressive experience in the geotechnical engineering consulting industry.

Preferred:

  • Engineer in Training (EIT) or Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) certification is highly preferred.
  • Progress towards or current possession of a Professional Engineer (PE) or Professional Geologist (PG) license.
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