Principal Geotechnical Engineer – Underground Structures
Apply for the Principal Geotechnical Engineer – Underground Structures role at WSP.
At WSP, you can access our global scale, contribute to landmark projects and connect with the brightest minds in your field.
Responsibilities
* 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.
Qualifications
* 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.
Benefits
* Hybrid working policy offers flexibility to work from home two days a week, with opportunities to collaborate in modern offices across the UK.
* Inclusive workplace culture welcoming varied backgrounds and encouraging authentic representation.
* Health & wellbeing support via Thrive programme, Virtual GP service, reasonable workplace adjustments, Gymflex scheme, and comprehensive menopause support package.
* Flex your time: "WSP My Hour" allows one hour each day for personal activities with flexibility to make up time.
* Part‑time and flexible working arrangements, option to purchase additional leave, and use of bank holiday entitlement.
* Development and training opportunities, mentoring, and access to chartership pathways.
About Us
We are one of the world’s leading engineering and professional services firms. Our 72,800 passionate people are united by the 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.
EEO Statement
Here at WSP 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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