Senior Engineering Geologist (Permanent) in Leeds

Fairhurst LLP is one of the UK’s largest private multidisciplinary partnerships of consulting engineers, delivering civil, structural, geotechnical, environmental, transportation, planning, water, and landscape architecture services across 16 principal offices in the UK. Fairhurst specialises in providing cost‑effective, sustainable engineering solutions and prides itself on high-quality service delivery, technical excellence, and long-standing client relationships.

Role Overview – The Engineering Geologist / Senior Engineering Geologist role will deliver high quality geotechnical solutions across a wide range of projects, with a strong focus on the rail sector. Based in our Leeds office, the postholder will produce and review technical reports, undertake design works, supervise ground investigation and site activities, support project and contract management, and mentor junior staff. You will apply your expertise in ground modelling, geotechnical design, and risk assessment while working collaboratively within a multi-disciplinary Civil, Structural and Geotechnical Engineering team. The role also involves direct client engagement and contribution to business development, supporting successful project delivery and long term client relationships.

This is an excellent opportunity to work within one of the UK’s leading Civil, Structural & Geotechnical Engineering Consultancies, delivering integrated solutions for governments, businesses, rail organisations, architects and planners.

• Deliver high‑quality interpretative geotechnical reporting with minimal supervision.
• Carry out risk‑based assessments including Preliminary Risk Assessments and Mining Risk Assessments.
• Undertake hand calculations and use appropriate geotechnical software to support design development.
• Provide technical problem‑solving and specialist input throughout the project lifecycle.
• Support and contribute to project and contract management, including programme and budget control.
• Lead and manage site activities, including supervision of ground investigations and site data collection.
• Manage assigned workloads effectively, ensuring delivery to time, cost, and quality standards.
• Engage directly with clients, contractors, and internal stakeholders to support successful project delivery.
• Build and maintain strong professional relationships to encourage repeat business and long‑term collaboration.

Quality & Compliance – Promote and maintain high standards of health, safety, and environmental compliance during office and site activities. Support compliance with rail industry and client‑specific requirements and procedures. Provide technical guidance and mentoring to junior geologists and engineers. Contribute positively to team development and knowledge sharing within the office and wider business. Take responsibility for personal and professional development, including progression towards or maintenance of Chartered status.

Qualifications:

• Degree in Geology or a related discipline (essential).
• MSc in Engineering Geology, Geotechnical Engineering, or a related field (desirable).
• Relevant industry experience, commensurate with the Engineering Geologist / Senior Engineering Geologist level.
• Experience working within the rail sector, including earthworks inspections and reporting.
• Proven experience producing geotechnical reports, including Geotechnical Interpretative Reports and Mining Risk Assessments.
• Demonstrable experience in ground investigation planning, specification, supervision, and interpretative reporting.
• Full UK driving licence, with willingness to travel to site as required.
• Strong understanding of geology, ground models, and geotechnical engineering principles.
• Ability to carry out hand calculations and use geotechnical analysis software.
• Good understanding of ground investigation techniques, sampling methods, and laboratory testing.
• Experience undertaking Preliminary Risk Assessments.
• Familiarity with earthworks and/or drilling and grouting techniques (desirable).
• Commercial awareness and understanding of consultancy project delivery.
• Proactive, professional, and committed to continuous learning and development.
• Committed to delivering high‑quality, technically robust work.

Continuous Development: Competitive salary and benefits, aligned to experience and location. ~33 days annual leave (inclusive of Public Holidays) including annual leave purchase and buy-back scheme ~ Bonus Schemes including loyalty bonus, introducer fee and qualifications award ~ Access to Staff Health Plan, Employee Assistance Programme including a 24-hour advice line. ~ Life Insurance, Personal Accident and a generous Contributory Pension Scheme ~ Interest-free travel loan, Cycle to Work Scheme and Arnold Clark Affinity Scheme ~ Payment of professional fees. ~ Hybrid and flexible working opportunities will be considered ~ Career and professional development and opportunities on high‑profile projects. ~ A culture built on responsiveness, flexibility, and sustainable, value‑adding engineering. That’s why we’re working together to build a better, more inclusive and diverse future for engineers and the engineering industry.