Lead Geotechnical Engineer

Job Description

The AECOM Oakland, California Geo-Engineering Department has an immediate need for an experienced, energetic Lead Geotechnical Engineer to take on a leadership role in our geotechnical engineering practice.  The candidate will have the opportunity to direct projects for a variety of facilities including dams, pipelines, tunnels, levees, bridges, refineries, and building structures and coordinate with a broad range of other disciplines within AECOM.

The candidate should have experience in supervising and training staff in geotechnical investigations, analyses, reporting, and construction observation.  Business development for existing and new clients will be an integral part of the position.

Responsibilities for this position include but are not limited to:

• Project management – tracking scope, schedule and budget
• Business development for new and existing clients
• Preparing engineering services proposals, cost estimates, and schedules
• Preparing Project Work Plans and Health and Safety Plans
• Providing technical support to geotechnical projects
• Overseeing and preparing engineering reports and documentation
• Reviewing engineering reports and documentation prepared by junior staff
• Ensuring the quality of project deliverables
• Mentoring and technical development of junior staff
• Performing Independent Technical Reviews
• Strong commitment to ensuring safe project execution
• Provides technical leadership for a specialty and is considered to be a fully capable professional in their field.
• Applies intensive and diversified knowledge of engineering principles and practices in broad areas of assignments and related fields. Makes decisions independently on technical problems and methods, and represents the organization in conferences.
• Resolves important questions and plans and coordinates work.
• Requires the use of advanced techniques and the modifications and extension of theories, precepts and practices of the field and related sciences and disciplines.
• The knowledge and expertise required for this level of work usually result from progressive experience.
• Supervision and guidance relate largely to overall objectives, critical issues, new concepts, and policy matters.
• Receives direction on unusual conditions and developments.

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements: 

• BA/BS degree plus 8 years of relevant experience or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education.
• PE registration
• Valid U.S. Driver’s License, along with ability to pass a Motor Vehicles Records check in accordance with company policy.

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering, with a Master’s degree or PhD in Civil Engineering strongly preferred
• 10+ years of relevant professional experience
• California GE registration
• Experience planning and directing geotechnical investigations
• Thorough knowledge of foundation engineering including shallow and deep foundations, earthwork, slope stability
• Working knowledge of relevant building code provisions
• Experience working on Water Resources projects
• Experience working in Refinery or other industrial sites
• Experience working with local permitting jurisdictions
• OSHA 40 Hour Hazwoper Trained
• Local travel may be required
• Must possess a valid driver's license

Additional Information

• Relocation is available for this role.
• Local client/site travel required.

At AECOM, we are committed to maintaining a secure and trustworthy recruitment process and take any fraudulent hiring activity seriously. To support this commitment, all newly hired employees are required to attend an in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office location as a condition of employment.

About AECOM 

AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan. 

AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients’ complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. Learn more at aecom.com. 

What makes AECOM a great place to work 

You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you’ll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you’ve always envisioned. Here, you’ll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community—where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity. 

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines. 

Compensation: 150000 to 225000 (USD) (YEARLY)