At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative geotechnical projects in subsea oil and gas, solving complex challenges.
- Company: Join a leading recruitment firm with over 25 years of experience in engineering and energy.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and the chance to work on impactful projects.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with opportunities for mentorship and professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the energy sector while developing your technical expertise.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's in Civil Engineering; 10+ years in subsea projects; Chartered Engineer preferred.
The Principal Geotechnical Engineer is responsible for addressing unique and complex technical challenges with significant impact on business outcomes. This position demands proactive problem-solving and innovative thinking to develop creative solutions for geotechnical challenges in subsea oil and gas projects. The role influences project direction, resource allocation and technical strategies within the discipline, operating under general function policies and industry guidelines. Experience working with SURF Contractor is essential to be considered for the role.
Essential Qualifications and Education:
- Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering; Master’s or Ph.D. in Geotechnical Engineering preferred.
- Minimum 10 years of experience in subsea/offshore oil and gas projects with major contractors or consultants, primarily in detailed design.
- Comprehensive knowledge of design techniques, analysis methods, and application of relevant standards, codes, and guidelines.
- Strong project coordination and execution skills.
- Chartered Engineer status with a recognized professional body (e.g., ICE) preferred.
- Proficient in geotechnical calculations, reporting, and documentation; familiar with standards such as API-RP-2GEO, DNV-RP-F114, ISO-19901-4.
- Skilled in numerical analysis using Plaxis 2D/3D, SLOPE/W; experience with ABAQUS is advantageous.
- Proficient in MS Office applications (Word, Excel, etc.).
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills; ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Demonstrated ability to resolve complex geotechnical issues and provide innovative solutions.
Key Tasks and Responsibilities:
- Perform conceptual, FEED, and detailed analyses and designs in accordance with design basis, project specifications, codes, and standards.
- Apply advanced technical expertise and broad business knowledge to resolve complex and non-standard issues.
- Prepare accurate and detailed design calculations, analyses, reports, and procedures.
- Collaborate with structural, pipeline, installation, and other engineering disciplines to provide geotechnical input to multi-disciplinary project teams.
- Deliver high-quality work demonstrating deep geotechnical knowledge and experience.
- Prepare technical reports, specifications, and geotechnical calculations.
- Develop scopes of work for geotechnical and geophysical surveys in shallow and deepwater fields, including laboratory testing programs for subsea pipelines and structures.
- Interpret geotechnical survey data and derive design soil parameters.
- Conduct geohazard assessments to support field layout and pipeline routing.
- Design shallow and deep foundations for subsea structures (e.g., PLET, ILT, PLEM).
- Perform pipe-soil interaction assessments for surface-laid and buried pipelines.
- Assess trenching requirements and design rock berms.
- Conduct seismic slope stability and liquefaction analyses.
- Provide geohazard risk mitigation recommendations.
Leadership responsibilities:
- Lead the Geotechnical team to deliver assigned work within schedule, budget, and quality standards, in compliance with McDermott and project-specific procedures.
- Plan, organise and manage all aspects of geotechnical scope, deliverables, schedule, and manpower resources in coordination with the Functional Manager.
- Ensure clear definition of interfaces and deliverables.
- Monitor progress and productivity, implementing corrective actions as necessary.
- Represent the Geotechnical discipline in meetings with project teams, clients, certifying authorities, auditors, and third parties.
- Provide mentorship and technical guidance to junior engineers and share expertise across the department.
Reporting Structure:
- Project: Reports to Lead Engineer, Project Engineering Manager, or Project Manager.
- Functional: Discipline Lead / Department Manager.
- Liaises With: All engineering disciplines, Safety Department, Project Management Team, Document Control, Planning, Cost Control, QC, Certification Groups, Procurement, Subcontractors, Vendors, and Clients.
Full time
Posting Date: 2026-03-20
Principal Geotechnical Engineer (Permanent) in London employer: McDermott International
McDermott International is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that prioritises safety and innovation in the offshore energy sector. With a strong commitment to employee development, we provide ample opportunities for growth and advancement, alongside competitive benefits that support work-life balance. Located in a thriving industry hub, our team enjoys a collaborative culture that values expertise and fosters long-term client relationships, making it a rewarding place to build a career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Geotechnical Engineer (Permanent) in London
✨Dive into Geoscience Communities
Join local and online geoscience communities and forums. Places like the Geological Society of London often have events where you can network with professionals in the field. Engaging in discussions or attending workshops can really get you noticed!
✨Show Off Your Fieldwork Skills
If you've got hands-on experience from university projects or internships, make sure to highlight that. Employers in geoscience love practical skills. Consider creating a portfolio showcasing your fieldwork or any research projects you’ve been a part of.
✨Utilise Research Publications
Stay up to date with the latest research in geosciences by diving into journals or attending conferences. Not only will this make you more knowledgeable, but it can also provide talking points in interviews and even lead to job opportunities through academic connections.
✨Apply Directly on Our Website!
When you find a role like Principal Geotechnical Engineer (Permanent) at McDermott International, apply directly on our website! Tailor your application to highlight your specific skills and experiences in geoscience. Remember, being specific can really set you apart!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Geotechnical Engineer (Permanent) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills in Geoscience:When you're drafting your CV, make sure to highlight specific geoscience skills and experiences. Whether it’s fieldwork, data analysis, or modelling software you’ve used, these details can set you apart. We love to see practical experience, so don't shy away from discussing any projects or research that relate directly to the earth sciences!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Shine:Your cover letter for a full-time geoscience position should scream passion for the field! Let us know why you're excited about working at McDermott International and how your skills align with what we're looking for. Mention any relevant coursework, internships, or projects that showcase your journey in geoscience.
Certifications Matter!:In the geoscience sector, having relevant certifications can give your application an extra edge. If you have any geological or environmental certifications, or even training in software like GIS, make sure to list them prominently. It not only highlights your commitment but also shows that you're equipped with the knowledge required for the role.
Detailed Project Portfolio:For a full-time role, it's super helpful to include a project portfolio if you've worked on significant geoscience projects. This could include research papers, fieldwork summaries, or even visual data representations. We love seeing how you've applied your skills in real-world situations, so make it easy for us to see your achievements!
How to prepare for a job interview at McDermott International
✨Show Your Technical Prowess
In geoscience, you'll likely face some technical questions related to geology, geophysics, or GIS tools. Brush up on the fundamental concepts and be prepared to talk about any software you’ve used, like ArcGIS or MATLAB, and how you applied them in your previous projects or studies.
✨Bring Your Field Experience to the Table
If you've had any fieldwork or practical experience, make sure to highlight those experiences during your interview. Talk about specific projects where you collected data, conducted analyses, or made observations. This not only shows your hands-on skills but also demonstrates your commitment to the field.
✨Passion for Our Planet
As a full-time candidate, showing genuine enthusiasm for geoscience can set you apart. Think about what excites you most in this field, whether it's climate change, natural resources, or environmental conservation. Be ready to discuss what draws you to McDermott International and how you can contribute to their ongoing projects.
✨Stay Curious and Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare some questions that reflect your keen interest in ongoing research or specific projects at McDermott International. This stays in line with the collaborative nature of geoscience; it shows that you’re not just looking for a job but are genuinely interested in being part of a team that explores and solves real-world problems.
