Geotechnical Engineer (Principal-Level)

Shannon & Wilson Inc•Wheat Ridge, CO

8d•$150,000 - $200,000

About The Position

Shannon & Wilson is an employee-owned consulting firm headquartered in Seattle, Washington. Committed to technical excellence and high-quality service, we provide integrated geotechnical engineering, engineering geology, environmental and natural resource services for clients worldwide. Since 1954, we have delivered comprehensive engineering and environmental solutions for some of the most challenging infrastructure planning, design, permitting and construction conditions. As employee owners, we are dedicated to improving our communities, preserving the environment and utilizing innovative science practices in our work. Job Summary The Principal Geotechnical Engineer serves as a senior technical leader responsible for delivering geotechnical engineering solutions, guiding multidisciplinary teams, advancing technical excellence, and supporting business development. This role provides strategic direction on geotechnical investigations, design methodologies, risk management, and project execution across major infrastructure and development projects.

Requirements

Bachelor’s or master’s degree in Geotechnical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or related field (PhD preferred for highly technical roles).
Professional Engineer (PE) license required; GE license preferred where applicable.
20+ years of experience as a Geotechnical Engineer.
Demonstrated history leading large, infrastructure projects.
Experience with advanced geotechnical modeling software.
Proven experience in leadership, project management, and client management.
Strong technical writing and communication abilities.
High proficiency in interpreting geological and geotechnical data.
Strong decision-making and risk-assessment skills.
Ability to work collaboratively across disciplines and lead diverse teams.
The willingness and ability to travel to support the needs of other Shannon & Wilson offices.
A valid driver license and insurable driving record.
The ability to travel (drive or fly) to field sites per project needs and job sites locally and out of state.
Frequent sitting, standing, walking, bending, lifting, and carrying 30+ pounds.
Working in all weather conditions on uneven terrain.

Nice To Haves

PhD preferred for highly technical roles.
GE license preferred where applicable.

Responsibilities

Serve as the geotechnical technical authority, providing peer review, quality oversight, and sign-off on geotechnical deliverables.
Manage all phases of technical engineering projects, provide guidance to the engineering teams working on projects, and assure successful achievement of project goals.
Lead proposal development to include: project scoping; fee estimating; and review and negotiate of contracts.
Build and maintain client relationships; serve as a trusted adviser on geotechnical issues; resolve client conflicts and concerns.
Oversee quality control, conduct engineering studies and investigations, and prepare and review design reports, progress reports, and project completion reports for company management.
Contribute to strategic growth initiatives, market positioning, and technical capability development.
Conduct and supervise analyses, studies and calculations (e.g., finite element modeling, seismic response, settlement modeling, slope stability, seepage).
Mentor and develop junior and mid-level geotechnical engineers and may supervise a team of engineers.
Lead or support recruitment and talent development for geotechnical teams.
Review operational procedures to ensure compliance with applicable policies and performance measures.
Keeps abreast of industry trends and issues.
Assist in committee work to support strategic goals of the company.
Follow Shannon & Wilson’s Quality Assurance policy.
Follow and promote Shannon and Wilson’s Health and Safety and Loss Prevention policies.
Perform other duties as assigned by your supervisor.