Buckhorn Engineering Inc. is seeking a Civil Engineer with geotechnical experience, or a strong interest in developing that focus, to join a multidisciplinary team serving Western Colorado. The role blends civil design with geotechnical investigation and analysis, including field activities, construction support, and coordination across engineering disciplines.
Based in Montrose, CO with onsite work, this position includes a mix of office and project site responsibilities across the region. Compensation is USD 85,000 to 120,000 per year, depending on experience, technical capability, licensure, and the ability to manage engineering projects independently.
Responsibilities
- Perform civil and geotechnical engineering calculations and analyses.
- Produce engineering plans, reports, specifications, cost estimates, and technical recommendations.
- Support geotechnical investigations, including drilling observation, test pits, sampling, soil and rock logging, and field documentation.
- Review and interpret geotechnical field and laboratory testing results.
- Develop recommendations for foundations, earthwork, settlement, retaining structures, drainage, and other site conditions.
- Carry out civil site design as applicable, including grading, drainage, utilities, stormwater, roadway, and site-development work.
- Coordinate with BEI’s in-house geotechnical and construction materials testing laboratory.
- Conduct site visits and provide construction-phase engineering support.
- Coordinate with clients, contractors, government agencies, and other design professionals.
- Assist with project management activities such as scheduling, budgeting, proposals, scopes of work, and fee estimates.
- Review project documents for accuracy and compliance with applicable standards and regulations.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Geological Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, or a closely related engineering discipline.
- Current EIT certification or Professional Engineer (PE) license.
- 3+ years of civil engineering, geotechnical engineering, or closely related engineering experience.
- Experience preparing engineering calculations, plans, reports, specifications, or technical recommendations.
- Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.
- Ability to perform both office and field work.
- Ability to travel to project sites throughout Western Colorado.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Technologies
- AutoCAD Civil 3D
- SLOPE/W
- GSTABL
- LPILE
- HEC-RAS
Benefits
- 401(k) with company match
- HSA or Wellness Plan
- Dental and vision insurance
- Paid time off and holidays
- Professional development and continuing education support
- PE licensing support
- Opportunities for increased project responsibility and career advancement
Preferred Qualifications
- Professional Engineer (PE) license.
- Colorado PE license or ability to obtain Colorado licensure through comity.
- Experience with geotechnical investigations, soil or rock evaluation, foundations, settlement, slope stability, retaining structures, or earthwork.
- Experience with civil site development including grading, drainage, utilities, roads, or municipal infrastructure.
- Proficiency with AutoCAD Civil 3D.
- Experience interpreting geotechnical laboratory and field testing results.
- Familiarity with SLOPE/W, GSTABL, LPILE, HEC-RAS, or similar engineering software.
- Experience working in Western Colorado or similar mountainous or intermountain geologic conditions.
- Experience supporting projects through both design and construction.
Work Environment
- Combination of office and field work.
- Field assignments may include observing drilling and excavation activities, evaluating site conditions, collecting or reviewing soil and rock samples, and visiting active construction sites.
- Most projects are throughout Western Colorado and within a few hours of Montrose.
- Occasional longer travel or overnight stays may be required.
Life in Montrose, Colorado
- Montrose offers a Western Colorado lifestyle with access to year-round outdoor recreation and a growing community.
- The Black Canyon of the Gunnison, San Juan Mountains, Ouray, Ridgway, Telluride, and the Uncompahgre Plateau are nearby, with opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, hunting, skiing, camping, and more.
How to Apply
Submit your resume and a brief cover letter describing your civil and/or geotechnical engineering experience, current EIT or PE status, and relevant project experience.
