Geotechnical engineers combine their engineering skills with knowledge of geology and geography to understand work with the Earth's natural resources. A geotechnical engineer examines the natural resources and natural structure of a particular work site, determines whether the earth can be safely worked for his employer's purposes, runs tests on soil, rock and other elements at the work site and develops a plan so construction can begin. Geotechnical engineers can find work in the oil, gas, construction and government sectors.
Job Duties
A geotechnical engineer splits his time between field work and desk work. The field work consists of implementing plans for earthwork construction, inspecting work sites, determining construction risk factors such as whether the rock at a job site can support construction and working with the rocks, soil, natural structures and substrate at a work site. The desk portion of the job has the geotechnical engineer designing systems and structures which will safely work in the particular area that his employer wishes to begin construction. A geotechnical engineer may further specialize in coastal engineering, developing plans to build structures along the coast and in the oceans.
Education
The minimum education required to become a geotechnical engineer, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, is a bachelor's degree in this area of engineering. All entry-level jobs in the field require at least a four-year degree. Graduate school is primarily useful for those engineers who wish to enter academia and research. Most other jobs in the engineering discipline do not require a master's degree. Licensing is required for a geotechnical engineer who works with the public. The licensing requirements are the same in every state.
Salary
A geotechnical engineer can expect to make a median salary of $75,960, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. High-end salaries average $122,750, earned by the top 10% of geotechnical engineers currently in the job market. Your salary can range quite a bit depending on your experience. The more hands-on and specialized your knowledge, the better your chances for making more money.
Prospects
Job prospects for this specialty are expected to rise by 15 percent, which is higher than average for most jobs. While this job market has been lukewarm in the past, mineral exploration is beginning to ramp up, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Turnover is also expected, with older geotechnical engineers leaving the work force at a steady rate from 2008 to 2018.
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