Role Overview
The Geotechnical Engineer plays a key role in assessing ground conditions, providing geotechnical design solutions, and supporting the successful delivery of infrastructure, building, and environmental projects. Working as part of a multidisciplinary team, the role involves undertaking site investigations, analysing soil and rock behaviour, preparing technical reports, and contributing to the safe, efficient, and sustainable design of foundations, earthworks, retaining structures, and other geotechnical elements. The role requires strong technical capability, attention to detail, and effective communication with colleagues, clients, and stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
Technical & Design
* Undertake geotechnical analysis and design including foundations, earthworks, retaining structures, slope stability, ground improvement, and soil–structure interaction.
* Contribute to ground investigation planning, sampling strategies, and interpretation of geotechnical data.
* Analyse laboratory and in‑situ testing data to determine geotechnical parameters.
* Prepare high‑quality technical reports, design summaries, risk assessments, and design calculations.
* Use relevant geotechnical modelling software (e.g., GeoStudio, PLAXIS, or equivalent) to support design decisions.
* Ensure designs comply with relevant standards, guidance, and best practice.
Project Management
* Support project delivery by assisting with planning, resourcing, and coordination of geotechnical tasks.
* Monitor progress, risks, and programme constraints to maintain timely delivery.
* Contribute to cost estimates, proposals, and technical scopes.
* Maintain accurate project documentation and follow internal governance procedures.
Client & Stakeholder Engagement
* Communicate geotechnical findings and design recommendations clearly to internal teams, clients, and external partners.
* Attend client meetings, site visits, and project workshops as required.
* Build positive working relationships and contribute to collaborative project environments.
Quality & Compliance
* Ensure all work meets required quality standards and complies with health, safety, and environmental legislation.
* Promote and apply best practice in geotechnical design and investigation.
* Assist in developing and maintaining quality assurance procedures, documentation, and technical standards.
Leadership & Mentoring
* Support the development of graduate engineers and technicians through knowledge sharing and on‑the‑job guidance.
* Contribute to a positive team environment by demonstrating professionalism, integrity, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
* Lead small work packages or tasks where appropriate under the guidance of senior staff.
Person Specification
Qualifications
* Degree in Civil Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, Engineering Geology, or a related discipline.
* MSc in Geotechnical Engineering or Engineering Geology (desirable).
* Working toward or holding professional accreditation (e.g., ICE, IOM3, or similar).
Experience
* Experience in geotechnical design and/or site investigation (graduate to intermediate levels acceptable depending on role).
* Understanding of soil and rock mechanics, geotechnical modelling, and UK ground conditions.
* Experience preparing technical reports and analysing geotechnical data.
* Familiarity with industry standards, design codes, and relevant software tools.
* Site‑based experience such as supervising ground investigations or logging soil/rock samples (advantageous).
Skills & Attributes
* Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with a logical and methodical approach.
* Effective written and verbal communication skills, capable of explaining technical concepts clearly.
* Ability to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
* Good organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
* Adaptable, proactive, and committed to delivering high‑quality outcomes.
* A strong interest in geotechnical engineering and continuous professional development.
* Full UK driving licence (desirable depending on role requirements).
Core Competencies
Communication
Clearly conveys technical concepts and ideas in written and verbal form.
Problem Solving
Approaches issues analytically and presents well‑reasoned solutions.
Initiative
Demonstrates enthusiasm, curiosity, and a proactive approach to work.
Accountability
Takes responsibility for accuracy, deadlines, and personal development.
Organisation / Project Management
Manages time and tasks effectively while supporting project delivery.
Managing Resources
Uses tools, information, and supervision effectively to complete tasks.
Working Collaboratively
Builds positive working relationships and contributes to team success.
Adaptability
Responds well to change, feedback, and evolving project needs.
Customer Service
Acts professionally and contributes to delivering value for clients.
Alignment with Fairhurst Group Values
* Excellence: Committed to delivering high‑quality, technically robust work.
* Lasting Relationships: Builds trust with colleagues, clients, and partners.
* Pure Thought: Applies clear, transparent reasoning and maintains professional integrity.
* Continuous Development: Engages in continual learning and development for personal and organisational growth.