Geotechnical engineers use their knowledge of rock and soil to assess the risks and solve problems on a range of infrastructure projects. These professionals test and analyse soils and rocks to support design and construction while assessing potential risks including landslides, rock falls, sinkholes and earthquakes.
By assessing natural hazards, a geotechnical engineer designs plans and undertakes appraisals for onshore and offshore projects. The work of a geotechnical engineer can include:
- Site appraisals and investigations;
- Geological and hydro-geological characterisation;
- Ground improvement and soil stabilisation;
- Excavations, earthwork creation and slope engineering;
- Foundation and retaining wall engineering;
- Temporary works and support systems;
- Ground monitoring and instrumentation;
- Drilling feasibility studies;
- Subsidence and underpinning engineering;
- Road and pavement subgrade testing;
- Risk assessment and monitoring;
Geotechnical engineers create detailed reports to share the results of both on-site and laboratory-based testing. These reports are tailored to meet the specific needs of a project and include design parameters and advice for the construction of a range of man-made structures.
As well as providing consultancy services covering areas such as slope stability and load-bearing capacities for different materials, these engineers undertake research and development activities to improve methodologies, equipment, materials knowledge and analysis covering entire lifecycles(What Is Geotechnical Engineering?, n.d.).
What unique skill or insight do you believe sets a great geotechnical engineer apart? Share your thoughts!
Reference:
What is Geotechnical Engineering? (Definition, Types and Salary). (n.d.). Retrieved June 19, 2025, from https://www.twi-global.com/technical-knowledge/faqs/geotechnical-engineering.aspx
