Geotechnical engineer

Geotechnical engineers study soil, rock, and groundwater to assess how the ground will behave under structures. The work combines site investigation and drilling supervision with lab testing and modelling, producing recommendations for foundations, retaining walls, slopes, and excavations.

They work for engineering consultancies, contractors, and government bodies, often splitting time between field and office. The role suits people comfortable with uncertainty — ground conditions are rarely fully known — who can make sound judgments from incomplete subsurface data.