Principal Geotechnical Engineer – Underground Structures
Shape your career as unique as you. At WSP, you can access a global scale, contribute to landmark projects, and connect with the brightest minds in your field to do the best work of your life.
The Role
* Lead geotechnical design for underground structures including tunnels, shafts, and associated works from concept through detailed design and construction phases.
* Apply advanced soil and rock mechanics principles to develop safe, efficient, and innovative solutions for underground projects.
* Ensure compliance with relevant design standards and guidance (e.g., Eurocode 7, BS codes, ITA guidelines, and applicable local regulations).
* Undertake and review geotechnical analyses such as stability assessments, ground‑structure interaction modelling, and support system design.
* Oversee ground investigation planning, interpretation of geotechnical data, and development of geotechnical baseline reports.
* Manage technical delivery of multi‑disciplinary projects, coordinating inputs from structural, civil, and environmental teams.
* Provide expert advice on excavation methods, ground improvement techniques, and temporary/permanent support systems.
* Conduct site inspections, supervise construction activities, and provide technical input during tunnelling and shaft sinking operations.
* Mentor junior engineers and contribute to internal training programmes and knowledge‑sharing initiatives.
* Support business development through proposal preparation, client engagement, and participation in industry conferences.
* Promote health, safety, and equality in all aspects of work, adhering to company policies and values.
What We Will Be Looking For You To Demonstrate
* Degree qualified in Civil Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, or Engineering Geology (postgraduate qualification desirable).
* Extensive experience in geotechnical design for underground tunnels and shafts in soft ground and/or hard rock.
* Strong understanding of ground behaviour, soil and rock mechanics, and geotechnical risk management.
* Familiarity with tunnelling methods (e.g., TBM, NATM, SCL) and shaft sinking techniques.
* Proficiency in geotechnical analysis software (e.g., PLAXIS, FLAC, GeoStudio) and interpretation of ground investigation data.
* Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects and lead multi‑disciplinary teams.
* Excellent communication skills and willingness to travel within the UK and internationally.
Imagine a better future for you and a better future for us all. Work on landmark projects around the world and embrace opportunities to make an even bigger impact in the communities you care about.
With us, you can. Apply today.
About Us
We are one of the world’s leading engineering and professional services firms. Our 72,800 passionate people are united by a common purpose of creating positive, long‑lasting impacts on the communities we serve through a culture of innovation, integrity, and inclusion. With over 9,000 professionals across the UK and Ireland, we are dedicated to our local communities and propelled by international brainpower.
What’s in it for you?
Work‑life balance: WSP offers a hybrid working policy that allows you to work from home two days a week and provides opportunities to collaborate in our modern offices across the UK.
Inclusivity & belonging: We welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and experiences, encouraging everyone to bring their authentic selves to work.
Health & wellbeing: Our Thrive programme and Virtual GP service support your health, with clinics and medical advice available; we also offer Gymflex, a comprehensive menopause support package, and reasonable workplace adjustments.
Flex your time: “WSP My Hour” lets you take one hour each day for personal activities, and we provide part‑time and flexible working arrangements, the option to purchase additional leave, and the ability to use your bank holiday entitlement.
Your development: We invest in your growth through training, mentoring, and chartership pathways.
#WeAreWSP
We positively encourage applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, pregnancy or maternity/paternity. As a Disability Confident leader, we will interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria; please let us know if you require any workplace adjustments in support of your application.
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