Geotechnical Engineer (Entry-Level)

Build your foundation in geotechnical engineering with an entry-level role based in Seattle, WA (onsite). Shannon & Wilson Inc offers employee stock ownership, robust insurance coverage, retirement savings with safe-harbor support, and programs that support long-term career growth. You will contribute to real-world projects through analysis, field and lab work, reporting, and construction observation, while working within defined Quality Assurance and Health & Safety and Loss Prevention policies.

Compensation is structured by level based on education, experience, and fit with business needs. The target range for this position is USD 93,500 to 120,000 per year, with placement typically at a Shannon & Wilson Professional I, II, III, or IV level depending on qualifications.

Responsibilities

• Perform geotechnical engineering and geological analyses and calculations.
• Prepare and write engineering and other reports.
• Conduct field explorations, including collection of samples, geologic reconnaissance, and mapping.
• Support construction observation on job sites, preparing summary logs and other documentation.
• Perform geotechnical lab testing and communicate results.
• Interact and communicate with clients, vendors, and staff at all levels.
• Support marketing activities, including preparation of cost proposals.
• 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.

Requirements

• BS in Civil Engineering required.
• MS or PhD in Geotechnical Engineering strongly preferred.
• 0 to 6 years of experience in Geotechnical Engineering.
• Have obtained or be in process of receiving an Engineer-in-Training (EIT) Certificate.
• On track to obtain a Professional Engineering (PE) License.
• Work experience and/or coursework in: soil mechanics, rock mechanics, rock and soil slope stability, shallow and deep foundations, tunneling, microtunneling, seismic design, earthquake engineering, and/or retaining structures.
• Some knowledge or experience with field/construction observation, including logging explorations, observing pile driving, observing earthwork activities, installing and recording geotechnical instrumentation, field reconnaissance, and/or underground work.
• Excellent writing, organizational, and communication skills.
• Personable, flexible, and professional demeanor.
• Ability to work independently with appropriate or minimal supervision.
• Willingness and ability to travel to support other Shannon & Wilson offices.
• Valid driver license and insurable driving record.
• Basic computer skills: MS Word and Excel (required); MS Access (desirable).
• Critical thinking and analysis.
• Ability to perform frequent sitting, standing, walking, bending, lifting, and carrying 30+ pounds.
• Ability to work in all weather conditions and on uneven terrain.
• Ability to travel (drive or fly) to field sites locally and out of state.
• Ability to obtain a pass for access to military facilities.

Compensation

• Professional I: $93,500 - $97,500
• Professional II: $95,500 - $101,500
• Professional III: $100,000 - $107,500
• Professional IV: $105,000 - $120,000

Benefits

• Employee stock ownership
• Medical, prescription, vision, dental, long-term care, and life insurance plans (for employees and their families)
• Pre-tax health and daycare FSA
• Profit sharing and 401(k) plans with annual safe-harbor contributions
• 10 - 20 paid vacation days per year for full-time employees (prorated for part-time), based on years of experience
• Paid Sick and Safe Leave accrues based on state requirements
• 9 paid holidays per year + 1 personal holiday
• Paid volunteer day
• Paid time off for bereavement and jury duty
• Two weeks of paid parental leave
• Lunch & Live wellness webinars and an Employee Assistance Program
• Mentorship Program
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Free parking

Tools & Technologies

• MS Word
• Excel
• MS Access
• 401(k)

Career Path (Level Placement)

Placement at a Professional I, II, III, or IV level is typically determined based on education, experience, overall abilities, alignment with company and local office culture, and current business needs.