Geotechnical Engineer Jobs in California
Geotechnical Engineer jobs in California are among the most active in the country, concentrated in infrastructure, transportation, seismic hazard assessment, and large-scale land development across a market that hires from entry-level field engineers through senior project leads. The heaviest demand is in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego, where firms like Arup, Fugro, and AECOM maintain significant California operations. Slope stability, earthquake engineering, and foundation design are the specialties appearing most consistently in California listings. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Company Description
Work with Us. Change the World.
At AECOM, we're delivering a better world. Whether improving your commute, keeping the lights on, providing access to clean water, or transforming skylines, our work helps people and communities thrive. We are the world's trusted infrastructure consulting firm, partnering with clients to solve the world's most complex challenges and build legacies for future generations.
There has never been a better time to be at AECOM. With accelerating infrastructure investment worldwide, our services are in great demand. We invite you to bring your bold ideas and big dreams and become part of a global team of nearly 50,000 planners, designers, engineers, scientists, digital innovators, program and construction managers and other professionals delivering projects that create a positive and tangible impact around the world.
We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us.
Job Description
AECOM Technical Services, Inc. is seeking a Geotechnical Engineer in Oakland, CA:
- Perform geotechnical field inspections, geologic mapping, landslide mapping and crack monitoring on dam abutments and around the reservoir rims for analyzing subsurface conditions
- Conducted stability analysis, including seepage analysis, materials characterization and other modelling features for embankment dams on multiple dam designs projects
- Perform deformation analysis on selected embankment design and prepared data for numerical modeling analysis
- Execute liquefaction triggering assessment for dam projects, lateral earth pressure, and bearing capacity pressure calculations for related structures
- Prepare ground motion response spectra corresponding to different earthquake models for report use
- Field investigation planning, coordination and oversight including preparing work plans, health and safety plans and coordination with subcontractors and client representatives
Qualifications
Candidates must have a Master's degree in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, or related field.
Alternatively, the employer will accept a Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, or a related field, and two (2) years of experience as a geotechnical engineer or in a related occupation.
Experience and skills can be gained in pursuit of a university-level degree via coursework, projects, or internships. Skills may be gained concurrently. Required skills:
- Geotechnical Earthquake Engineering
- Engineering Geology
- Numerical Modelling in Geomechanics
- GeoEngineering Testing and Design
- Seismology
- MATLAB and Python
- RocPlane
- GeoStudio
- Bluebeam Revu
- Fundamental Revit
- SWedge
- Slope/W and Seep/W
- QGIS
- DEEPSOIL
- AutoCAD
- Engineer-in-Training Certification.
Additional Information
All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.
At AECOM, we are committed to maintaining a secure and trustworthy recruitment process and take any fraudulent hiring activity seriously. To support this commitment, all newly hired employees are required to attend an in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office location as a condition of employment.
About AECOM
AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan.
AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients’ complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. Learn more at aecom.com.
What makes AECOM a great place to work
You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you’ll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you’ve always envisioned. Here, you’ll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community—where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity.
As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.
Company Description
Work with Us. Change the World.
At AECOM, we're delivering a better world. Whether improving your commute, keeping the lights on, providing access to clean water, or transforming skylines, our work helps people and communities thrive. We are the world's trusted infrastructure consulting firm, partnering with clients to solve the world's most complex challenges and build legacies for future generations.
There has never been a better time to be at AECOM. With accelerating infrastructure investment worldwide, our services are in great demand. We invite you to bring your bold ideas and big dreams and become part of a global team of nearly 50,000 planners, designers, engineers, scientists, digital innovators, program and construction managers and other professionals delivering projects that create a positive and tangible impact around the world.
We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us.
Job Description
AECOM Technical Services, Inc. is seeking a Geotechnical Engineer in Oakland, CA:
- Perform geotechnical field inspections, geologic mapping, landslide mapping and crack monitoring on dam abutments and around the reservoir rims for analyzing subsurface conditions
- Conducted stability analysis, including seepage analysis, materials characterization and other modelling features for embankment dams on multiple dam designs projects
- Perform deformation analysis on selected embankment design and prepared data for numerical modeling analysis
- Execute liquefaction triggering assessment for dam projects, lateral earth pressure, and bearing capacity pressure calculations for related structures
- Prepare ground motion response spectra corresponding to different earthquake models for report use
- Field investigation planning, coordination and oversight including preparing work plans, health and safety plans and coordination with subcontractors and client representatives
Qualifications
Candidates must have a Master's degree in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, or related field.
Alternatively, the employer will accept a Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, or a related field, and two (2) years of experience as a geotechnical engineer or in a related occupation.
Experience and skills can be gained in pursuit of a university-level degree via coursework, projects, or internships. Skills may be gained concurrently. Required skills:
- Geotechnical Earthquake Engineering
- Engineering Geology
- Numerical Modelling in Geomechanics
- GeoEngineering Testing and Design
- Seismology
- MATLAB and Python
- RocPlane
- GeoStudio
- Bluebeam Revu
- Fundamental Revit
- SWedge
- Slope/W and Seep/W
- QGIS
- DEEPSOIL
- AutoCAD
- Engineer-in-Training Certification.
Additional Information
All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.
At AECOM, we are committed to maintaining a secure and trustworthy recruitment process and take any fraudulent hiring activity seriously. To support this commitment, all newly hired employees are required to attend an in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office location as a condition of employment.
About AECOM
AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan.
AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients’ complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. Learn more at aecom.com.
What makes AECOM a great place to work
You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you’ll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you’ve always envisioned. Here, you’ll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community—where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity.
As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.
See All 53 Geotechnical Engineer Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Geotechnical Engineer JobsGeotechnical Engineer Jobs by City in California
Where California roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Geotechnical Engineer Job Market in California
A snapshot from current California openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
- Terracon Consultants10
- HDR9
- Kleinfelder6
- Exponent5
- GEI Consultants4
Top Industries Hiring
- Consulting & Professional Services47
- Construction & Real Estate8
- Healthcare & Medical Services3
- Manufacturing1
- Technology & Software1
What California Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in geotechnical engineer jobs across California.
- Active California Professional Engineer license in civil or geotechnical engineering preferred or required
- Bachelor's degree in civil, geotechnical, or geological engineering from an accredited program
- Experience with slope stability analysis, foundation design, and soil investigation methods
- Proficiency in geotechnical software such as GeoStudio, PLAXIS, or LPile
- Familiarity with Caltrans, CBC seismic standards, and California grading ordinances
- Strong field experience conducting borings, logging soils, and overseeing lab testing programs
Geotechnical Engineer Jobs in California: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a geotechnical engineer in California?
To practice as a geotechnical engineer in California, you need a Professional Engineer license issued by the California Department of Consumer Affairs Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists. The path starts with an accredited bachelor's degree in civil or geotechnical engineering, followed by passing the Fundamentals of Engineering exam, completing qualifying experience under a licensed PE, and then passing the Principles and Practice of Engineering exam in the geotechnical or civil discipline.
How much do geotechnical engineers make in California?
Geotechnical engineers in California earn a median of about $122,500 a year, based on May 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data, ranging from around $77,980 for the lowest 10% to over $175,940 for the top 10%. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and employer.
Which companies hire geotechnical engineers in California?
Employers hiring geotechnical engineers in California right now include Terracon Consultants, HDR, and Kleinfelder, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of June 2026. California's active infrastructure pipeline, including rail expansion, wildfire-related slope remediation, and coastal development, keeps large engineering consultancies and public agencies posting consistently throughout the year.
Which California cities have the most geotechnical engineer jobs?
Los Angeles, Oakland, and Rancho Cordova have the most geotechnical engineer openings in California. Los Angeles and San Diego generate volume through major transportation, port, and development projects, while San Francisco draws demand from seismic retrofit work, Bay Area transit expansion, and the dense concentration of engineering consultancies headquartered in the region.
Are there remote geotechnical engineer jobs in California?
Yes, but they are rare. Geotechnical engineering is a predominantly field- and site-driven discipline, so most roles require physical presence for borings, soil sampling, and site assessments. About 17% of geotechnical engineer openings tied to California are remote or hybrid as of June 2026. The portions most suited to remote work are report writing, data analysis, and CAD modeling tasks, which some employers allow off-site on a partial basis.
How can I get hired as a geotechnical engineer in California with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is applying for a staff or junior geotechnical engineer role at a mid-size California consulting firm, where you will log soils, assist with field investigations, and support senior engineers on report preparation. Firms like ENGEO, Kleinfelder, and Terracon regularly bring on new graduates for field-heavy associate roles in California. Sitting for the Fundamentals of Engineering exam and gaining your Engineer-in-Training designation immediately after graduation gives you a concrete credential that moves your resume past screening filters ahead of candidates who have not yet started licensure.
Where can I find and apply to geotechnical engineer jobs in California?
You can find and apply to geotechnical engineer jobs in California on Migrate Mate, which lists current California openings across consulting firms, public agencies, and construction companies. Find roles that fit your experience and specialty, then apply directly to each employer through the listing.
See All 53 Geotechnical Engineer Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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