Geotechnical Engineer — Ground Engineering Lead (UK North) in Edinburgh

Arup’s purpose, shared values and collaborative approach have set us apart for over 80 years, guiding how we shape a better world. Our geotechnical engineers play a vital role in turning complex ground conditions into safe, sustainable and buildable solutions across a wide range of sectors.

Our Ground Engineering team in the North of the UK supports projects across energy, water, transport and the built environment. From early ground investigation and site characterisation through to design and construction support, our teams combine technical excellence with collaborative problem‑solving to deliver resilient outcomes for clients and communities.

We have an exciting opportunity for Geotechnical Engineers to join our established and growing ground engineering team in the north of the UK, which supports our offices in Belfast, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Newcastle, Liverpool, Manchester, Leeds and Sheffield. In this role, you will deliver geotechnical engineering work for projects that span a wide range of markets and locations across our geography and beyond. Our current projects include pumped hydro, wind and nuclear power generation, road and rail infrastructure, tunnelling and commercial buildings and site development.

You will contribute to technically challenging projects from early site investigation through to design and construction, working as the focal point between design and construction partners. As a critical member of a project team, collaboration, clear communication and a strong understanding of client needs are key. This is an opportunity to apply your ground engineering expertise to solve design and construction challenges whilst continuing to develop your technical skills and professional career within a supportive and forward-looking environment.

You will have the opportunity to do socially useful work that has meaning – to Arup, to your career, to our members and to the clients and communities we serve. This role does not meet the criteria for visa sponsorship under the UK immigration system. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.

We are keen to hear from people who want to be part of a team that thrives on variety and challenge and can embrace the opportunity of helping deliver our growing portfolio of water, energy and transport projects, who enjoy collaborative problem-solving and are motivated to keep developing their expertise. You are likely to bring some of the following:

• Experience in, or relevant academic study of, geotechnical design for foundations, retaining walls, earthworks, slopes and buried structures, using current industry standards and guidance.
• Experience in undertaking desktop studies and the planning and interpretation of ground investigation and laboratory and in-situ test results.
• Experience of analysing field and laboratory data to develop ground models and project specific geotechnical solutions.
• Experience using industry-standard geotechnical software such as OpenGround, Leapfrog. Experience with numerical modelling software such as PLAXIS to model soil structure interaction problems is desirable.
• A collaborative and adaptable working style, with strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to manage allocated work packages across different projects and locations, ensuring delivery aligns with team and business objectives.

You will have a recognised tertiary qualification in Civil Engineering or Engineering Geology. You will hold a professional qualification, or be working towards one, with the ICE or other equivalent bodies, and will be motivated to grow Arup’s ground engineering capability in the North through high‑quality technical delivery and strong client relationships.

At Arup, we care about each member’s success, so we can grow together. Guided by our values, we provide an attractive total reward package that recognises the contribution of each of our members to our shared success. As well as competitive, fair and equitable pay, we offer a career in which all of our members can belong, grow and thrive – through benefits that support health and wellbeing, a wide range of learning opportunities and many possibilities to have an impact through the work they do.

Different people, shared values. Arup is an equal opportunity employer that actively promotes and nurtures a diverse and inclusive workforce. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, regardless of age, gender identity or expression, marital status, disability, neurotype or mental health, race or ethnicity, faith or belief, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background, and whether you’re pregnant or on family leave.