Geotechnical Engineer Jobs in Illinois
Geotechnical Engineer jobs in Illinois are steadily active, with consistent demand concentrated in infrastructure development, transportation, and commercial construction, and openings ranging from entry-level staff engineers through senior project leads. Chicago and its surrounding suburbs anchor most hiring, with additional activity in Rockford and Peoria, where infrastructure investment and industrial development continue to drive project pipelines. Firms like Terracon, Wiss Janney Elstner Associates, and Smith Group maintain a lasting Illinois presence and hire regularly across site investigation, foundation design, and slope stability specialties. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Showing 5 of 17+ Geotechnical Engineer jobs
We continually strive for a workforce that reflects the growing diversity within the State of Illinois. A variety of employee backgrounds, perspectives, ideas and experiences are crucial to our ability to most effectively serve the public. Bilingual skills welcome
Reasonable Accommodation Statement
The State of Illinois is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to people with disabilities. Further, federal law requires employers to provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities. Please tell us if you require a reasonable accommodation to apply for a job, interview for a job, or for any other activity related to the hiring process. Examples of reasonable accommodation include, but are not limited to, making a change to the application process (if possible), providing documents in an alternate format, using a sign language interpreter, or using specialized equipment.
To be provided a Reasonable Accommodation during the hiring process, you will need to provide a certification of disability from a physician, psychiatrist, school official or an Illinois Department of Human Services (DHS) Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Counselor. Supporting documentation should be uploaded under My Documents Additional Documents section for each application.
Any questions on Reasonable Accommodations can be directed to Central Management Services Disability Resource Center at CMS.DisabilityResCen@illinois.gov or call (217) 524-7514 for further information and to request or discuss an accommodation.
Sponsorship for Employment
The State of Illinois does not provide sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g. H-1B visa status), nor is the State able to provide extensions of optional practical training (OPT) under the STEM-designated degree program for F-1 students. To be considered for permanent employment with the State of Illinois, applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.
Disclosure of Salary Information
In compliance with the Illinois Equal Pay Act, 820 ILCS 112/1 et seq., the State does not seek, request, or require a job applicant’s wage or salary history. Employment decisions are not made based on an applicant’s wage or salary history. To that end, please do not include wage or salary information in your resume or other profile or application materials.
Job Requisition ID: 59687 IPR# 26-01845
Opening Date: 11/10/2026
Closing Date: 11/25/2026
Agency: Department of Transportation
Position Title: Civil Engineer V
Salary: Anticipated Starting Salary: $ 6,837 Monthly; Full Range: $ 6,837 - $ 10,831 Monthly
Job Type: Salaried
Category: Full Time
Number of Vacancies: 1
Bargaining Unit: NR916 Pro Tech Teamsters
Work Hours: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm Monday - Friday
Anticipated Hybrid Work Schedule Availability: 1 to 5 Days per week in office, depending on operational needs
Work Location: 401 Main St, Peoria, Illinois, 61602
Work Office: Office of Highways and Intermodal Project Implementation, Region 3/District 4/Bureau of Project Implementation
Work County: Peoria
Agency Contact: DOT.CONTACTHR@ILLINOIS.GOV
This position is a union position; therefore, provisions of the relevant collective bargaining agreement/labor contract apply to the filling of this position.
All applicants who want to be considered for this position MUST apply electronically through the illinois.jobs2web.com website. State of Illinois employees should click the link near the top left to apply through the SuccessFactors employee career portal.
Applications submitted via email or any paper manner (mail, fax, hand delivery) will not be considered.
Why Work for Illinois?
Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you’re helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you’re part of something bigger—something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home. No matter what state career you’re looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule—flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.
Position Overview
This position is accountable for the supervision and direction of personnel engaged in the geotechnical activities of the district as they relate to the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of the transportation system.
Essential Functions
- Ensures that soils conditions are properly determined, evaluated, and interpreted for study and design applications.
- Reviews design plans.
- Compiles data, prepares, and analyzes geotechnical reports as required for improvements.
- Conducts investigations of soil problems encountered on construction projects and recommends remedial measures.
- Monitors embankment and foundation construction controls.
- Develops and implements district quality standards involving soil structure conditions.
- Prepares mixture designs and performs evaluations in the field for pozzolanic and lime stabilized/modified bases.
- Responsible for training, motivating, and evaluating subordinate personnel.
- Ensures subordinate staff perform all duties in accordance with department rules, regulations, programs, practices, and procedures.
- Maintains a professional relationship with all Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) personnel, producers, suppliers, contractors, local officials, and all others involved in the production and use of materials.
- Performs duties in compliance with departmental safety rules. Performs all duties in a manner conducive to the fair and equitable treatment of all employees.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
- Current registration as a Licensed Professional Engineer in the state of Illinois OR current registration as a Licensed Structural Engineer in the state of Illinois
- Five years of experience in civil engineering.
Preferred Qualifications
- Knowledge of geotechnical products, subsurface investigation methods, and soil testing procedures.
- Coursework in geotechnical engineering.
- Strong management skills.
- Strong oral and written communication skills.
- Strong judgment and analytical aptitude.
Conditions of Employment
- Requires the ability to travel districtwide in the performance of duties. Requires appropriate valid driver’s license.
- Outdoor work in a variety of conditions including, but not limited to, active construction sites, drilling sites, and roads open to traffic.
- This position has been found to meet the requirements in section 4A-101 of the Illinois Governmental Ethics Act requiring the occupant/employee to file a Statement of Economic Interest. The Illinois Governmental Ethics Act (5 ILCS 420/4A et seq.) requires certain state officials and employees to file annual Statements of Economic Interest with the Office of the Secretary of State that will be made available for examination and copying by the public. All employees required to file a Statement of Economic Interest are also required to file the Supplemental Statement of Economic Interest with the Executive Ethics Commission. (See Executive Order 15-09) Fines and penalties apply to untimely filings.
- Certain provisions of the revolving door restrictions contained in 5 ILCS 430/5-45 apply to this position. As a result, the employee should be aware that if offered non-State employment during state employment or within one year immediately after ending State employment, the employees hall, prior to accepting any such non-State employment offer, notify the Office of the Executive Inspector General for the Agencies of the Illinois Governor (OEIG) or may be subject to a fine.
- Successful completion of background screening.
- The conditions of employment listed here are incorporated and related to any of the job duties assisted in the job description.
About the Agency
The Illinois Department of Transportation is seeking to hire a Geotechnical Engineer.
The IDOT team works diligently to provide safe, cost-effective transportation for Illinois in ways that enhance quality of life, promote economic prosperity and protect our environment. We are problem solvers and leaders, constantly searching for innovations and improvements in support of our commitment to providing the best multimodal transportation system for Illinois. Our team fosters a culture of inclusivity. We value diversity and hold ourselves to the highest ethical standards as we work together for a common purpose. Team members frequently collaborate with colleagues and others outside the department to best meet customer needs.
The department offers extensive training and career advancement opportunities. Employees also receive a robust benefit package including:
- Monday-Friday work schedule
- Flexible work schedules in several program areas (flexible time, hybrid scheduling)
- Health, Life, Vision, and Dental Insurance
- Pension Plan
- (12) Weeks paid Maternity/Paternity Leave
- Deferred Compensation Program and other pre-tax benefit programs (Medical/Daycare)
- Employees earn (12) paid Sick Days annually
- New Employees earn (10) paid Vacation Days their first year of service and can earn up to (25) paid Vacation Days annually
- Employees earn (3) paid Personal Days annually
- (13-14) paid holidays annually (based on start date)
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Employee Assistance Program and/or mental health resources
We invite qualified applicants to apply to become part of our team. We are confident that you will take pride in serving Illinois and its residents and visitors.
Certain provisions of the revolving door restrictions contained in 5 ILCS 430/5-45 apply to this position. As a result, the employee should be aware that if offered non-State employment during state employment or within one year immediately after ending State employment, the employees hall, prior to accepting any such non-State employment offer, notify the Office of the Executive Inspector General for the Agencies of the Illinois Governor (OEIG) or may be subject to a fine.
This position has been found to meet the requirements in section 4A-101 of the Illinois Governmental Ethics Act requiring the occupant/employee to file a Statement of Economic Interest. The Illinois Governmental Ethics Act (5 ILCS 420/4A et seq.) requires certain state officials and employees to file annual Statements of Economic Interest with the Office of the Secretary of State that will be made available for examination and copying by the public. All employees required to file a Statement of Economic Interest are also required to file the Supplemental Statement of Economic Interest with the Executive Ethics Commission. (See Executive Order 15-09) Fines and penalties apply to untimely filings.
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS
If you are not already signed in, you will be prompted to do so.
State employees should sign in to the career portal for State of Illinois employees – a link is available at the top left of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon.
Non-State employees should log in on the using the “View Profile” link in the top right of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon. If you have never before signed in, you will be prompted to create an account.
If you have questions about how to apply, please see the following resources:
State employees: Log in to the career portal for State employees and review the Internal Candidate Application Job Aid
Non-State employees: on Illinois.jobs2web.com – click “Application Procedures” in the footer of every page of the website.
Seasonal and temporary workers should use a personal e-mail address when applying for jobs.
The main form of communication will be through email. Please check your “junk mail”, “spam”, or “other” folder for communication(s) regarding any submitted application(s). You may receive emails from the following addresses:
- donotreply@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com
- systems@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com
We continually strive for a workforce that reflects the growing diversity within the State of Illinois. A variety of employee backgrounds, perspectives, ideas and experiences are crucial to our ability to most effectively serve the public. Bilingual skills welcome
Reasonable Accommodation Statement
The State of Illinois is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to people with disabilities. Further, federal law requires employers to provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities. Please tell us if you require a reasonable accommodation to apply for a job, interview for a job, or for any other activity related to the hiring process. Examples of reasonable accommodation include, but are not limited to, making a change to the application process (if possible), providing documents in an alternate format, using a sign language interpreter, or using specialized equipment.
To be provided a Reasonable Accommodation during the hiring process, you will need to provide a certification of disability from a physician, psychiatrist, school official or an Illinois Department of Human Services (DHS) Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Counselor. Supporting documentation should be uploaded under My Documents Additional Documents section for each application.
Any questions on Reasonable Accommodations can be directed to Central Management Services Disability Resource Center at CMS.DisabilityResCen@illinois.gov or call (217) 524-7514 for further information and to request or discuss an accommodation.
Sponsorship for Employment
The State of Illinois does not provide sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g. H-1B visa status), nor is the State able to provide extensions of optional practical training (OPT) under the STEM-designated degree program for F-1 students. To be considered for permanent employment with the State of Illinois, applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.
Disclosure of Salary Information
In compliance with the Illinois Equal Pay Act, 820 ILCS 112/1 et seq., the State does not seek, request, or require a job applicant’s wage or salary history. Employment decisions are not made based on an applicant’s wage or salary history. To that end, please do not include wage or salary information in your resume or other profile or application materials.
Job Requisition ID: 59687 IPR# 26-01845
Opening Date: 11/10/2026
Closing Date: 11/25/2026
Agency: Department of Transportation
Position Title: Civil Engineer V
Salary: Anticipated Starting Salary: $ 6,837 Monthly; Full Range: $ 6,837 - $ 10,831 Monthly
Job Type: Salaried
Category: Full Time
Number of Vacancies: 1
Bargaining Unit: NR916 Pro Tech Teamsters
Work Hours: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm Monday - Friday
Anticipated Hybrid Work Schedule Availability: 1 to 5 Days per week in office, depending on operational needs
Work Location: 401 Main St, Peoria, Illinois, 61602
Work Office: Office of Highways and Intermodal Project Implementation, Region 3/District 4/Bureau of Project Implementation
Work County: Peoria
Agency Contact: DOT.CONTACTHR@ILLINOIS.GOV
This position is a union position; therefore, provisions of the relevant collective bargaining agreement/labor contract apply to the filling of this position.
All applicants who want to be considered for this position MUST apply electronically through the illinois.jobs2web.com website. State of Illinois employees should click the link near the top left to apply through the SuccessFactors employee career portal.
Applications submitted via email or any paper manner (mail, fax, hand delivery) will not be considered.
Why Work for Illinois?
Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you’re helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you’re part of something bigger—something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home. No matter what state career you’re looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule—flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.
Position Overview
This position is accountable for the supervision and direction of personnel engaged in the geotechnical activities of the district as they relate to the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of the transportation system.
Essential Functions
- Ensures that soils conditions are properly determined, evaluated, and interpreted for study and design applications.
- Reviews design plans.
- Compiles data, prepares, and analyzes geotechnical reports as required for improvements.
- Conducts investigations of soil problems encountered on construction projects and recommends remedial measures.
- Monitors embankment and foundation construction controls.
- Develops and implements district quality standards involving soil structure conditions.
- Prepares mixture designs and performs evaluations in the field for pozzolanic and lime stabilized/modified bases.
- Responsible for training, motivating, and evaluating subordinate personnel.
- Ensures subordinate staff perform all duties in accordance with department rules, regulations, programs, practices, and procedures.
- Maintains a professional relationship with all Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) personnel, producers, suppliers, contractors, local officials, and all others involved in the production and use of materials.
- Performs duties in compliance with departmental safety rules. Performs all duties in a manner conducive to the fair and equitable treatment of all employees.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
- Current registration as a Licensed Professional Engineer in the state of Illinois OR current registration as a Licensed Structural Engineer in the state of Illinois
- Five years of experience in civil engineering.
Preferred Qualifications
- Knowledge of geotechnical products, subsurface investigation methods, and soil testing procedures.
- Coursework in geotechnical engineering.
- Strong management skills.
- Strong oral and written communication skills.
- Strong judgment and analytical aptitude.
Conditions of Employment
- Requires the ability to travel districtwide in the performance of duties. Requires appropriate valid driver’s license.
- Outdoor work in a variety of conditions including, but not limited to, active construction sites, drilling sites, and roads open to traffic.
- This position has been found to meet the requirements in section 4A-101 of the Illinois Governmental Ethics Act requiring the occupant/employee to file a Statement of Economic Interest. The Illinois Governmental Ethics Act (5 ILCS 420/4A et seq.) requires certain state officials and employees to file annual Statements of Economic Interest with the Office of the Secretary of State that will be made available for examination and copying by the public. All employees required to file a Statement of Economic Interest are also required to file the Supplemental Statement of Economic Interest with the Executive Ethics Commission. (See Executive Order 15-09) Fines and penalties apply to untimely filings.
- Certain provisions of the revolving door restrictions contained in 5 ILCS 430/5-45 apply to this position. As a result, the employee should be aware that if offered non-State employment during state employment or within one year immediately after ending State employment, the employees hall, prior to accepting any such non-State employment offer, notify the Office of the Executive Inspector General for the Agencies of the Illinois Governor (OEIG) or may be subject to a fine.
- Successful completion of background screening.
- The conditions of employment listed here are incorporated and related to any of the job duties assisted in the job description.
About the Agency
The Illinois Department of Transportation is seeking to hire a Geotechnical Engineer.
The IDOT team works diligently to provide safe, cost-effective transportation for Illinois in ways that enhance quality of life, promote economic prosperity and protect our environment. We are problem solvers and leaders, constantly searching for innovations and improvements in support of our commitment to providing the best multimodal transportation system for Illinois. Our team fosters a culture of inclusivity. We value diversity and hold ourselves to the highest ethical standards as we work together for a common purpose. Team members frequently collaborate with colleagues and others outside the department to best meet customer needs.
The department offers extensive training and career advancement opportunities. Employees also receive a robust benefit package including:
- Monday-Friday work schedule
- Flexible work schedules in several program areas (flexible time, hybrid scheduling)
- Health, Life, Vision, and Dental Insurance
- Pension Plan
- (12) Weeks paid Maternity/Paternity Leave
- Deferred Compensation Program and other pre-tax benefit programs (Medical/Daycare)
- Employees earn (12) paid Sick Days annually
- New Employees earn (10) paid Vacation Days their first year of service and can earn up to (25) paid Vacation Days annually
- Employees earn (3) paid Personal Days annually
- (13-14) paid holidays annually (based on start date)
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Employee Assistance Program and/or mental health resources
We invite qualified applicants to apply to become part of our team. We are confident that you will take pride in serving Illinois and its residents and visitors.
Certain provisions of the revolving door restrictions contained in 5 ILCS 430/5-45 apply to this position. As a result, the employee should be aware that if offered non-State employment during state employment or within one year immediately after ending State employment, the employees hall, prior to accepting any such non-State employment offer, notify the Office of the Executive Inspector General for the Agencies of the Illinois Governor (OEIG) or may be subject to a fine.
This position has been found to meet the requirements in section 4A-101 of the Illinois Governmental Ethics Act requiring the occupant/employee to file a Statement of Economic Interest. The Illinois Governmental Ethics Act (5 ILCS 420/4A et seq.) requires certain state officials and employees to file annual Statements of Economic Interest with the Office of the Secretary of State that will be made available for examination and copying by the public. All employees required to file a Statement of Economic Interest are also required to file the Supplemental Statement of Economic Interest with the Executive Ethics Commission. (See Executive Order 15-09) Fines and penalties apply to untimely filings.
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS
If you are not already signed in, you will be prompted to do so.
State employees should sign in to the career portal for State of Illinois employees – a link is available at the top left of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon.
Non-State employees should log in on the using the “View Profile” link in the top right of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon. If you have never before signed in, you will be prompted to create an account.
If you have questions about how to apply, please see the following resources:
State employees: Log in to the career portal for State employees and review the Internal Candidate Application Job Aid
Non-State employees: on Illinois.jobs2web.com – click “Application Procedures” in the footer of every page of the website.
Seasonal and temporary workers should use a personal e-mail address when applying for jobs.
The main form of communication will be through email. Please check your “junk mail”, “spam”, or “other” folder for communication(s) regarding any submitted application(s). You may receive emails from the following addresses:
- donotreply@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com
- systems@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com
See All 17 Geotechnical Engineer Jobs in Illinois
Find roles in Illinois that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Geotechnical Engineer JobsGeotechnical Engineer Jobs by City in Illinois
Where Illinois roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Geotechnical Engineer Job Market in Illinois
A snapshot from current Illinois openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Consulting & Professional Services
- Energy
What Illinois Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in geotechnical engineer jobs across Illinois.
- Illinois Professional Engineer license or active pursuit of PE licensure required
- Bachelor's or master's degree in civil, geotechnical, or geological engineering
- Proficiency with geotechnical analysis software such as GINT, PLAXIS, or SLOPE/W
- Field experience conducting borings, soil sampling, and subsurface investigation programs
- Familiarity with IDOT standards and Illinois transportation infrastructure project requirements
- Strong technical report writing skills for geotechnical investigation and foundation design deliverables
Geotechnical Engineer Jobs in Illinois: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a geotechnical engineer in Illinois?
Becoming a geotechnical engineer in Illinois requires earning a bachelor's degree in civil or geotechnical engineering from an ABET-accredited program, then obtaining licensure through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Candidates first pass the Fundamentals of Engineering exam to become an Engineer Intern, then accumulate qualifying experience before sitting for the Principles and Practice of Engineering exam to earn a Professional Engineer license, which most Illinois employers require or strongly prefer.
How much do geotechnical engineers make in Illinois?
Geotechnical engineers in Illinois earn a median of about $99,760 a year, based on May 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data, ranging from around $69,590 for the lowest 10% to over $157,410 for the top 10%. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and employer.
Which companies hire geotechnical engineers in Illinois?
Employers hiring geotechnical engineers in Illinois right now include Burns & McDonnell, Kiewit, and Schnabel, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Illinois's dense infrastructure and transportation project workload means engineering consultancies and public-sector contractors are among the most consistent sources of openings across the Chicago metro and downstate markets.
Which Illinois cities have the most geotechnical engineer jobs?
Chicago, Oak Brook, and Cary lead Illinois for geotechnical engineer openings, reflecting where infrastructure investment, commercial construction, and public-sector project activity are most concentrated. Chicago drives the bulk of demand through major transit, highway, and urban development programs, while suburban and secondary markets like Rockford and Peoria generate steady work tied to industrial facilities and regional transportation corridors.
Are there remote geotechnical engineer jobs in Illinois?
Yes, but they're rare. About 30% of geotechnical engineer openings tied to Illinois are remote or hybrid as of November 2026, which reflects the hands-on, field-intensive nature of most geotechnical work. The portions of the role most compatible with remote arrangements are report writing, data analysis, and project management tasks rather than site investigation or drilling supervision.
How can I get hired as a geotechnical engineer in Illinois with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is applying directly to engineering consultancies in the Chicago metro that regularly hire staff engineers or field technicians straight out of college, including firms like Terracon and Geosyntec that run structured new-graduate programs. Lateral entry from soil science, geology, or construction materials testing roles is common, and passing the Fundamentals of Engineering exam early signals commitment to PE licensure, which gives candidates a clear edge with Illinois employers screening entry-level applicants.
Where can I find and apply to geotechnical engineer jobs in Illinois?
You can find and apply to geotechnical engineer jobs in Illinois on Migrate Mate, which lists current Illinois openings from employers actively hiring in the state. Search the listings, find roles that match your experience and location, and apply directly to the ones that fit.
See All 17 Geotechnical Engineer Jobs in Illinois
Find roles in Illinois that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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