Senior Geotechnical Engineer (SME) - Rail and Transit

Parsons•Newark, NJ

About The Position

In a world of possibilities, pursue one with endless opportunities. Imagine Next! At Parsons, you can imagine a career where you thrive, work with exceptional people, and be yourself. Guided by our leadership vision of valuing people, embracing agility, and fostering growth, we cultivate an innovative culture that empowers you to achieve your full potential. Unleash your talent and redefine what’s possible. Job Description: Parsons is looking for an amazingly talented Geotechnical Engineer (SME) to join our team! In this role, you'll have the privilege of working on the premier Infrastructure project in the Country, as well as receive all of the benefits of working for Parsons! This Program is the most Urgent infrastructure program in the country - a comprehensive set of rail investments that will improve commuter and intercity services, add needed resiliency and, in its later stages, create new capacity between Newark NJ and NYC. Program background The Gateway Program is the most urgent infrastructure program in the country – a comprehensive set of rail investments that will improve commuter and intercity services, add needed resiliency and, in its later stages, create new capacity between Newark, New Jersey and New York City, the busiest section of the Northeast Corridor (NEC). The first phase of the Gateway Program includes the Hudson Tunnel Project (HTP), which includes the construction of a new two-track tunnel under the Hudson River connecting to Penn Station New York as well as the full rehabilitation of the existing 110-year-old North River Tunnel. The Gateway Development Commission (GDC), established through bi-state legislation, is responsible for the financing and development of the Hudson Tunnel Project. Position Overview: The Geotechnical Engineering SME will provide expert-level support to the Gateway Development Commission (GDC) and Amtrak under Task Order #007 for the Hudson Tunnel Project. This role is part of the Strategic Management and Engineering Delivery Partner team and focuses on geotechnical oversight, analysis, and compliance throughout the design, procurement, and construction phases of the HTP.

Requirements

Master’s degree in Geotechnical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or related field.
Minimum 15 years of experience in geotechnical engineering on large-scale infrastructure or transportation projects.
Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred.
Expertise in soil mechanics, foundation engineering, ground improvement, and geotechnical instrumentation.
Familiarity with NEPA, environmental permitting, and construction compliance frameworks.

Nice To Haves

Experience with federally funded rail or tunnel projects.
Proficiency in geotechnical software (e.g., PLAXIS, GeoStudio, gINT).
Strong communication and stakeholder coordination skills.
Knowledge of BIM integration for geotechnical data.

Responsibilities

Technical Oversight & Advisory Provide expert geotechnical guidance during design reviews, constructability assessments, and feasibility evaluations.
Advise on soil and materials management strategies, including compliance with the Soil Reuse and Alternative Fill Management Plan.
Support environmental control processes related to hazardous materials and geotechnical risks.
Design & Construction Support Review geotechnical aspects of Construction Environmental Control Plans (CECPs) and ensure alignment with project specifications.
Evaluate subsurface investigations, foundation designs, and ground improvement techniques proposed by contractors.
Assist in the development and review of mitigation plans for geotechnical risks and construction impacts.
Compliance & Documentation Ensure geotechnical compliance with NEPA, Section 106, and other federal, state, and local environmental regulations.
Support the preparation of technical memoranda and supplemental environmental impact statements related to geotechnical changes.
Monitor and document geotechnical testing, inspections, and quality assurance activities.
Coordination & Reporting Collaborate with SEP, GDC, and Project Contractors to integrate geotechnical data into BIM models and project controls.
Contribute to Daily, Monthly, and Quarterly Package Reports with geotechnical findings and recommendations.
Participate in meetings with Technical Standards Committees and Senior Project Coordinating Committees.