At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative geotechnical projects and mentor junior engineers in a collaborative environment.
- Company: Join Stantec, a top-rated company known for its inclusive culture and sustainability efforts.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, flexible working, professional development, and great perks.
- Other info: Be part of a growing team with exciting career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on diverse projects while advancing your career in geotechnical engineering.
- Qualifications: Strong background in geotechnical practice and excellent report-writing skills required.
The predicted salary is between 47250 - 57750 £ per year.
We’re looking for a Senior or Principal Geotechnical Engineer to join our expanding Geo Division across the North of England, with key hubs in Manchester and Stoke. You will become part of a collaborative and high-energy team where geotechnical expertise is at the heart of multidisciplinary projects, supported by leadership who have risen through the ranks and understand what it takes to progress a career. Joining our team means working on diverse, high-impact projects spanning renewables, defence, justice, commercial, and residential sectors, all while contributing to technically challenging and innovative solutions. The team thrives on close collaboration across disciplines, fostering an environment where career development, learning, and technical excellence are at the forefront.
ABOUT THE ROLE:
As a Senior or Principal Geotechnical Consultant, you will be a key technical lead across a range of high-profile projects. Your responsibilities will include:
- Advising clients on site investigation scoping and data interpretation
- Preparing comprehensive interpretative and design reports, including Geotechnical Design Reports (GDRs) and Earthworks Specifications (EWSs)
- Conducting technical analysis of foundations, retaining structures, slope stability, and earthworks
- Supporting construction through on-site auditing and technical guidance
- Leading earthworks schemes involving surcharging, ground improvement, and collaboration with contaminated land specialists
- Mentoring junior team members and supporting multidisciplinary collaboration
- Promoting innovative and sustainable geotechnical solutions on challenging sites
YOUR IMPACT:
In this role, you will:
- Shape the delivery of technically robust geotechnical solutions with lasting impact for clients and communities
- Lead projects that overcome complex ground conditions and improve construction outcomes
- Influence design strategies and ensure compliance with UK geotechnical standards such as EC7 and DMRB
- Bring clarity and innovation to challenging projects, helping multidisciplinary teams deliver safe, sustainable, and high-quality developments
ABOUT YOU:
- Strong experience in UK geotechnical practice, with expertise in soil mechanics and soil–structure interaction
- Proven ability to prepare GDRs, EWSs, and related technical documentation
- Proficient in specifying and interpreting ground investigation techniques, including in situ and laboratory testing
- Experience with technical analysis of foundations, retaining structures, slope stability, and earthworks
- Knowledge of industry-standard software; experience with Plaxis 3D or other advanced finite element tools is highly advantageous
- Excellent report-writing skills with the ability to produce clear, concise, and insightful interpretative geotechnical reports
- Hands-on, innovative, and solutions-focused approach, with the ability to mentor junior team members and influence multidisciplinary project outcomes
QUALIFICATIONS:
- BEng, BSc, or higher degree in Geotechnical or Civil Engineering, or a Geology degree with an MSc in Geotechnical Engineering (or equivalent)
- Chartered Member of a relevant professional institution, or actively working toward Chartership
WHY JOIN US:
- We put people first: We're proud of our friendly, inclusive and collaborative environment where everyone feels valued and driven to succeed.
- We are driven to achieve: Named in the top 50 companies to work by Glassdoor 2025. Recognised by Corporate Knights as one of the world's top 10 most sustainable companies 2025. Named ‘Best Place to Work’ and ‘International Consulting Firm of the Year’ at the NCE Awards 2024.
- We do what is right: Industry leading training and development as well as paid for professional subscriptions. A professional progression plan, supporting you to become chartered with ICE.
- We are better together: A supportive and collaborative team environment and Early Careers peer group and wider ERG network.
- Growth: We're on an exciting growth journey across the UK - we want you to be part of it!
- Great Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus schemes, enhanced pension plan, annual leave with the option to buy/sell additional days, private medical insurance, group income protection & life assurance included as standard as well as discounted gym membership and lots more.
- Hybrid / Flexible working: Enjoy a healthy work-life balance with our hybrid approach to flexible working.
The Stantec community unites more than 34,000 employees working in over 450 locations across 6 continents. We have been working with our clients and communities in the UK for over 150 years. We plan, design, deliver and manage the development and infrastructure needed to support the creation of sustainable, healthy and prosperous communities.
Stantec provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants for future and current employment and prohibit discrimination on the grounds of race, colour, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, genetic information, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression.
Senior / Principal Geotechnical Engineer employer: Stantec UK Careers
Stantec is an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee growth and development. With access to industry-leading technologies and a strong commitment to sustainability, you'll have the opportunity to work on impactful projects while enjoying competitive benefits, flexible working arrangements, and a clear path to professional progression. Join us in Redditch or Newcastle to be part of a team that values your contributions and supports your career aspirations in the water industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior / Principal Geotechnical Engineer
✨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 Senior / Principal Geotechnical Engineer at Stantec UK Careers, 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 Senior / Principal Geotechnical Engineer
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 Stantec UK Careers 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 Stantec UK Careers
✨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 Stantec UK Careers 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 Stantec UK Careers. 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.
