Geotechnical Engineer Jobs in South Carolina
Geotechnical Engineer jobs in South Carolina are steadily active, with demand concentrated in highway and bridge infrastructure, coastal development, and commercial construction across a state investing heavily in civil projects. Columbia, Charleston, and Greenville anchor most of the hiring, where firms like AECOM, Terracon, and S&ME have long-standing operations. Slope stability analysis, foundation design, and environmental site assessment are the specialties most consistently requested. See the openings below and apply to the ones that match your experience.
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Showing 5 of 14+ Geotechnical Engineer jobs
Project Engineer - Geotechnical & Construction Materials
Requisition Number: 2026-1260-07
At S&ME, our geotechnical-construction materials engineers don't spend their careers behind a desk. One month you may be evaluating foundation systems for critical energy infrastructure. The next, you could be supporting construction in a dynamic river environment where engineering decisions directly influence long-term project performance.
Recently, our team supported the Duke Energy Dearborn Diversion Bypasses Project, solving complex geotechnical and construction engineering challenges in a dynamic river environment. From subsurface investigations and foundation evaluations to construction support, our engineers played a direct role in shaping project success.
As one team member shared:
"As an outdoor enthusiast myself, I could not have enjoyed working on this project more. S&ME developed creative ways to fulfill the field testing needs that I will carry forward on future projects. Overall, I felt the project made an impact on the community."
If you're looking for a role where you can apply your technical expertise, spend time in the field, build client relationships, and see the real-world results of your work, we'd love to have you join our team in Greenville-Spartanburg, South Carolina as a Project Engineer!
Why Join Our Greenville-Spartanburg Team?
Located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Greenville-Spartanburg offers a unique combination of career opportunity and lifestyle. Enjoy easy access to hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, and some of the Southeast's most scenic outdoor destinations, all while working on impactful infrastructure and energy projects throughout the region.
Whether you're exploring Falls Park after work, spending weekends in the mountains, or enjoying Greenville's growing food and cultural scene, you'll find a community that's as welcoming as it is vibrant.
About The Role:
As a Project Engineer, you will play a critical role in delivering high-impact geotechnical and construction projects, guiding them from initial subsurface exploration through final construction support. You'll serve as a trusted technical resource for Energy clients, ensuring projects are executed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with design standards and IBC requirements. This role blends engineering expertise, field presence, and client interaction, giving you direct influence over project outcomes while mentoring team members and strengthening relationships across the engineering and construction community.
- Project Execution & Oversight: Lead the planning, coordination, and execution of geotechnical, construction, and special inspection projects, ensuring alignment with scope, budget, and regulatory requirements.
- Technical Analysis & Engineering Solutions: Evaluate field and laboratory data to perform analyses on foundations, slope stability, and settlement, and develop practical, site-specific recommendations.
- Field Presence & Quality Assurance: Conduct regular site visits and inspections to monitor construction progress, verify compliance with plans and specifications, and address field challenges in real time.
- Client Collaboration & Communication: Partner with clients, contractors, and project stakeholders through meetings and site interactions to provide updates, resolve issues, and maintain strong working relationships.
- Documentation, Mentorship & Reporting Systems: Prepare detailed reports, proposals, and field documentation while mentoring junior staff and utilizing systems like Metafield® to track observations and testing results.
About You:
- You have a Bachelor's degree in Civil or Geotechnical Engineering, Mining, or a related engineering field
- You have a minimum of 4 years of professional experience working on geotechnical, geostructural, and/or construction projects
- You have a Professional Engineer (PE) or Geologist (PG) license or the ability to obtain one
- You have excellent computer skills including at a minimum, Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, AutoCAD
- You have strong math and communication skills (speaking, reading, and writing) using the English language
- You have strong business and technical writing skills
You Are Willing and Able to:
Perform the physical demands of the position with the use of company-provided Personal Protective Equipment such as:
- Working outdoors in varying weather conditions
- Routinely lifting and carrying 40- 50 lbs (field/laboratory samples and equipment)
- Working outside of normal business hours when necessary
At S&ME, we have a history of delivering innovative geotechnical, civil, environmental, and construction material testing for over 50 years. Over the decades, we have grown into a trusted partner for clients across various industries, including transportation, energy, water, waste management, education, government, commercial, industrial, and more. Our commitment to technical excellence and integrity has established us as a leader in our field.
Grow With Us:
At S&ME, your career growth matters. You'll receive professional training, work on exciting projects, and be part of a company that truly invests in its people. This is more than a job; it's a chance to build a long-term career in the engineering and construction industry. S&ME provides a comprehensive benefits package to support you and your family, as well as career development resources. Come grow and thrive with us at S&ME!
- Medical, Dental & Vision Plans with HSA and FSA options
- 100% Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) with a minimum 5% company contribution
- 401(k) Retirement Plan
- Paid Holidays and Paid Time Off (PTO) - with rollover options
- Paid Maternity/Parental Leave
- Employee Recognition Program
- Credential Incentive Program
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Company Vehicle with Fuel Card for Project-Based Work
- $2,000 Referral Bonuses & More!
Join us at S&ME!
This full-time role offers competitive pay based on experience. Candidates must comply with our Fleet Management, Substance Policy, and Reference Check requirements. Only candidates with valid employment eligibility (I-9) will be considered. Visa assistance is not available. S&ME reserves the right to hire internally or externally at any time. No candidate/recruiter calls, personal calls, or walk-ins are accepted.
Project Engineer - Geotechnical & Construction Materials
Requisition Number: 2026-1260-07
At S&ME, our geotechnical-construction materials engineers don't spend their careers behind a desk. One month you may be evaluating foundation systems for critical energy infrastructure. The next, you could be supporting construction in a dynamic river environment where engineering decisions directly influence long-term project performance.
Recently, our team supported the Duke Energy Dearborn Diversion Bypasses Project, solving complex geotechnical and construction engineering challenges in a dynamic river environment. From subsurface investigations and foundation evaluations to construction support, our engineers played a direct role in shaping project success.
As one team member shared:
"As an outdoor enthusiast myself, I could not have enjoyed working on this project more. S&ME developed creative ways to fulfill the field testing needs that I will carry forward on future projects. Overall, I felt the project made an impact on the community."
If you're looking for a role where you can apply your technical expertise, spend time in the field, build client relationships, and see the real-world results of your work, we'd love to have you join our team in Greenville-Spartanburg, South Carolina as a Project Engineer!
Why Join Our Greenville-Spartanburg Team?
Located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Greenville-Spartanburg offers a unique combination of career opportunity and lifestyle. Enjoy easy access to hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, and some of the Southeast's most scenic outdoor destinations, all while working on impactful infrastructure and energy projects throughout the region.
Whether you're exploring Falls Park after work, spending weekends in the mountains, or enjoying Greenville's growing food and cultural scene, you'll find a community that's as welcoming as it is vibrant.
About The Role:
As a Project Engineer, you will play a critical role in delivering high-impact geotechnical and construction projects, guiding them from initial subsurface exploration through final construction support. You'll serve as a trusted technical resource for Energy clients, ensuring projects are executed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with design standards and IBC requirements. This role blends engineering expertise, field presence, and client interaction, giving you direct influence over project outcomes while mentoring team members and strengthening relationships across the engineering and construction community.
- Project Execution & Oversight: Lead the planning, coordination, and execution of geotechnical, construction, and special inspection projects, ensuring alignment with scope, budget, and regulatory requirements.
- Technical Analysis & Engineering Solutions: Evaluate field and laboratory data to perform analyses on foundations, slope stability, and settlement, and develop practical, site-specific recommendations.
- Field Presence & Quality Assurance: Conduct regular site visits and inspections to monitor construction progress, verify compliance with plans and specifications, and address field challenges in real time.
- Client Collaboration & Communication: Partner with clients, contractors, and project stakeholders through meetings and site interactions to provide updates, resolve issues, and maintain strong working relationships.
- Documentation, Mentorship & Reporting Systems: Prepare detailed reports, proposals, and field documentation while mentoring junior staff and utilizing systems like Metafield® to track observations and testing results.
About You:
- You have a Bachelor's degree in Civil or Geotechnical Engineering, Mining, or a related engineering field
- You have a minimum of 4 years of professional experience working on geotechnical, geostructural, and/or construction projects
- You have a Professional Engineer (PE) or Geologist (PG) license or the ability to obtain one
- You have excellent computer skills including at a minimum, Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, AutoCAD
- You have strong math and communication skills (speaking, reading, and writing) using the English language
- You have strong business and technical writing skills
You Are Willing and Able to:
Perform the physical demands of the position with the use of company-provided Personal Protective Equipment such as:
- Working outdoors in varying weather conditions
- Routinely lifting and carrying 40- 50 lbs (field/laboratory samples and equipment)
- Working outside of normal business hours when necessary
At S&ME, we have a history of delivering innovative geotechnical, civil, environmental, and construction material testing for over 50 years. Over the decades, we have grown into a trusted partner for clients across various industries, including transportation, energy, water, waste management, education, government, commercial, industrial, and more. Our commitment to technical excellence and integrity has established us as a leader in our field.
Grow With Us:
At S&ME, your career growth matters. You'll receive professional training, work on exciting projects, and be part of a company that truly invests in its people. This is more than a job; it's a chance to build a long-term career in the engineering and construction industry. S&ME provides a comprehensive benefits package to support you and your family, as well as career development resources. Come grow and thrive with us at S&ME!
- Medical, Dental & Vision Plans with HSA and FSA options
- 100% Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) with a minimum 5% company contribution
- 401(k) Retirement Plan
- Paid Holidays and Paid Time Off (PTO) - with rollover options
- Paid Maternity/Parental Leave
- Employee Recognition Program
- Credential Incentive Program
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Company Vehicle with Fuel Card for Project-Based Work
- $2,000 Referral Bonuses & More!
Join us at S&ME!
This full-time role offers competitive pay based on experience. Candidates must comply with our Fleet Management, Substance Policy, and Reference Check requirements. Only candidates with valid employment eligibility (I-9) will be considered. Visa assistance is not available. S&ME reserves the right to hire internally or externally at any time. No candidate/recruiter calls, personal calls, or walk-ins are accepted.
See All 14 Geotechnical Engineer Jobs in South Carolina
Find roles in South Carolina that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Geotechnical Engineer JobsGeotechnical Engineer Jobs by City in South Carolina
Where South Carolina roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Geotechnical Engineer Job Market in South Carolina
A snapshot from current South Carolina openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Consulting & Professional Services
What South Carolina Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in geotechnical engineer jobs across South Carolina.
- Active South Carolina Professional Engineer license or eligibility for licensure through NCEES
- Bachelor's degree in civil engineering, geotechnical engineering, or a closely related field
- Experience conducting subsurface investigations, soil borings, and laboratory testing programs
- Proficiency with geotechnical software such as PLAXIS, gINT, or GEOPAK
- Ability to prepare and review geotechnical reports and foundation design recommendations
- Familiarity with SCDOT specifications and AASHTO standards for transportation projects
Geotechnical Engineer Jobs in South Carolina: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a geotechnical engineer in South Carolina?
You become a licensed geotechnical engineer in South Carolina by earning a bachelor's degree in civil or geotechnical engineering, passing the NCEES Fundamentals of Engineering exam, accumulating qualifying experience under a licensed Professional Engineer, and then passing the PE exam. Licensure is issued by the South Carolina Board of Registration for Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors. Most employers require or strongly prefer candidates who already hold or are close to obtaining their PE.
How much do geotechnical engineers make in South Carolina?
Geotechnical engineers in South Carolina earn a median of about $101,600 a year, based on May 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data, ranging from around $67,950 for the lowest 10% to over $156,380 for the top 10%. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and employer.
Which companies hire geotechnical engineers in South Carolina?
South Carolina geotechnical engineer roles are posted by S&ME, GHD, and Fluor and others right now, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of September 2026. South Carolina's active transportation corridor expansion, port development around Charleston, and commercial growth in the Midlands keep a broad range of engineering consultancies and public agencies posting consistently throughout the year.
Which South Carolina cities have the most geotechnical engineer jobs?
Greenville, Columbia, and Spartanburg are the South Carolina cities with the most geotechnical engineer openings. Columbia draws hiring through SCDOT projects and state agency contracts, Charleston sees high demand tied to port infrastructure and coastal construction, and Greenville benefits from manufacturing facility development and Upstate highway expansion that require ongoing geotechnical support.
Are there remote geotechnical engineer jobs in South Carolina?
Yes, but they're rare. Geotechnical engineering is heavily field-oriented, requiring site visits, drilling oversight, and in-person testing that cannot be done remotely. About 67% of geotechnical engineer openings tied to South Carolina are remote or hybrid as of September 2026, and those positions tend to involve report writing, data analysis, or project management tasks rather than direct field work.
How can I get hired as a geotechnical engineer in South Carolina with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is applying for a staff or junior geotechnical engineer role at a consulting firm, where you work under a licensed PE on field investigations and lab testing. Firms like Terracon and S&ME, which have South Carolina offices, routinely bring on new graduates. Completing your EIT after passing the FE exam signals readiness to employers. Relevant internship experience with an SCDOT contractor or a civil engineering firm in the Upstate or Lowcountry regions adds meaningful context to an entry-level application.
Where can I find and apply to geotechnical engineer jobs in South Carolina?
You can find and apply to geotechnical engineer jobs in South Carolina on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings in the state. Search the listings, find the roles that fit your experience and location, and apply directly to the ones that match.
See All 14 Geotechnical Engineer Jobs in South Carolina
Find roles in South Carolina that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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