Principal Geotechnical Engineer

Mott MacDonald•Seattle, WA

13d•$162,000 - $199,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Mott MacDonald is seeking a Senior Geotechnical Engineer to join their Ground Engineering team in Seattle, supporting major infrastructure programs in the Pacific Northwest. This hybrid role involves technical design and owner's advisory work on complex, large-scale transportation and civil infrastructure projects, including tunnels, underground stations, and elevated structures. The position is client-facing, requiring strong technical depth and experience in Washington and/or Oregon. It also includes line management and mentorship responsibilities, with a clear path to Principal level.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Civil or Geotechnical Engineering (Master’s preferred).
WA / OR PE license (or ability to obtain via reciprocity).
15+ years of experience in geotechnical engineering, with a strong track record on major infrastructure projects.
Proven experience in geotechnical design for complex infrastructure, including underground works and geostructures.
Experience working with public sector agencies in Washington and/or Oregon, with a solid demonstrated understanding of local codes and delivery frameworks.
Ability to operate in a client-facing or advisory capacity within project or program environments.
Strong technical grounding in soil and rock mechanics, geotechnical analysis, and ground-structure interaction.
Proficiency with industry-standard software (e.g., PLAXIS, GeoStudio, RS2/RS3, Civil 3D, BIM tools).
Experience leading technical delivery, managing risk, and contributing to project outcomes.
Strong communication and leadership skills, including mentoring and team development experience.

Responsibilities

Lead geotechnical analysis and design across all stages of project delivery, including foundations, excavations, retaining systems, slopes, embankments, ground improvement, and underground works.
Provide technical leadership on complex geotechnical challenges, ensuring solutions are robust, efficient, and constructible.
Support owner’s advisory services, including oversight of design, construction, and geotechnical risk management.
Coordinate geotechnical inputs across multidisciplinary teams, aligning with project requirements, standards, and stakeholder expectations.
Review calculations, reports, and design deliverables to ensure quality and compliance.
Support the development and interpretation of geotechnical data, including instrumentation and monitoring programs.
Engage with clients, agencies, and stakeholders to support delivery and strengthen working relationships.
Contribute to proposals and business development activities across the region.
Mentor and support junior engineers, fostering technical growth and knowledge sharing.
Promote a strong health, safety, and engineering culture.