Geotechnical Engineer

Job Specification: Graduate Geotechnical Engineer

Position Title: Geotechnical Engineer

Location: Birmingham

Salary: Competitive (Dependent on Experience)

Contract Type: Full-Time, Permanent

Company Overview:

We are a leading civil engineering consultancy specializing in geotechnical engineering and infrastructure projects across the UK. With a diverse portfolio ranging from small-scale residential developments to large infrastructure schemes, we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality solutions. As a forward-thinking company, we are committed to professional development and offering exceptional career progression for motivated graduates.

Position Overview:

We are seeking a highly motivated and ambitious Graduate Geotechnical Engineer to join our team. The successful candidate will work alongside a multidisciplinary team of engineers and will be involved in delivering a wide range of civil engineering projects, with a particular focus on geotechnical aspects including piling and foundation design. This is an excellent opportunity for an early-career professional looking to develop their expertise in the geotechnical field and grow within a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Geotechnical Design and Analysis: Work on the design and analysis of geotechnical aspects of civil engineering projects, including piling, foundations, and other groundworks.
2. Sheet Piling and Foundation Design: Focus on the design and implementation of sheet piling solutions for various projects. Conduct assessments of ground conditions and collaborate with senior engineers to develop cost-effective foundation designs.
3. Site Investigations and Reports: Assist in the coordination of site investigations, collection of data, and interpretation of ground conditions. Prepare detailed geotechnical reports and design recommendations for project teams and clients.
4. Collaboration: Work closely with project managers, structural engineers, and other stakeholders to ensure geotechnical solutions are integrated effectively into overall project designs.
5. Client Liaison and Presentations: Present technical reports and designs to clients and stakeholders, including at boardroom level, ensuring that all communication is clear and professional.
6. Quality Assurance and Compliance: Ensure designs comply with relevant UK standards, regulations, and best practices. Participate in internal and external audits to ensure quality assurance across all projects.
7. Professional Development: Take responsibility for your ongoing professional development, including attending training, workshops, and gaining further qualifications if desired.

Required Qualifications and Skills:

1. Educational Requirements: A degree in Geotechnical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or Structural Engineering (MEng or equivalent) from a recognized university. A postgraduate qualification in Geotechnical Engineering is desirable but not essential.
2. Relevant Experience: Experience in the UK construction industry, with a specific focus on sheet piling products and foundation engineering. A solid understanding of piling and foundation design, including geotechnical design software (e.g., PLAXIS, Lpile, etc.) is essential.
3. Technical Competence: Strong technical knowledge of geotechnical principles, site investigation techniques, and design methodologies for foundations and piling systems. Understanding of UK design codes and standards, including Eurocodes, is essential.
4. Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical information in a clear and concise manner to clients, senior management, and project teams. Must be able to present confidently at boardroom level.
5. English Proficiency: English must be the candidate's first language, with strong written and oral communication skills.
6. Software Proficiency: Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and geotechnical design software (e.g., PLAXIS, GeoStudio, LPILE, or similar) is essential.
7. Attention to Detail: Strong attention to detail, ensuring high-quality deliverables and compliance with all relevant standards and regulations.
8. Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to assess complex geotechnical issues and propose practical, innovative solutions.

Desirable Qualifications and Skills:

1. Postgraduate Qualification: A Master's or higher qualification in Geotechnical Engineering is advantageous.
2. Chartered Status or Working Towards: An interest in working towards Chartered Engineer status (CEng) through a recognized professional body (e.g., ICE, IStructE) is desirable.
3. Industry Experience: Experience working with other ground engineering solutions (e.g., ground improvement techniques, deep foundations, retaining walls) is beneficial.
4. UK Driving License: A full UK driving license is desirable as site visits may be required.

Personal Attributes:

1. Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
2. Proactive, motivated, and eager to learn, with a strong interest in advancing within the geotechnical engineering field.
3. Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
4. Professional demeanor, with the ability to represent the company effectively to clients, consultants, and other external parties.

What We Offer:

1. Competitive salary and benefits package.
2. Comprehensive training and development program with opportunities for career progression.
3. Access to mentorship from senior engineers and industry professionals.
4. Exposure to a variety of projects, enhancing technical knowledge and expertise.
5. A dynamic, supportive, and inclusive working environment.
6. Flexible working arrangements and a commitment to work-life balance.