Geotechnical Engineer

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Geotechnical Engineer with a specialisation in Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) designs to support the planning, design, and delivery of trenchless infrastructure projects across the UK. You will work on high-profile utilities, renewables, transport, and energy sector projects, ensuring safe, efficient, and technically sound HDD design solutions.

• Conduct geotechnical assessments and interpret ground investigation data to inform HDD feasibility and design.
• Produce or review detailed HDD design reports, including bore path alignment, entry/exit angles, pullback calculations, and drilling profiles.
• Evaluate geological risks and mitigation strategies related to HDD, including ground stability, fluid loss, and hydro fracture.
• Specify and review ground investigation requirements specific to HDD routes.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including civil, structural, environmental, and utility engineers.
• Advise on construction methods, drilling techniques, and ground support systems based on ground conditions.
• Support tendering processes by providing technical input and value engineering options.
• Ensure compliance with UK regulations, including CDM 2015, environmental regulations, and utility standards.
• Attend site visits to assess conditions, monitor works, and liaise with contractors and clients.
• Prepare and present technical documentation to clients, stakeholders, and regulatory authorities.

• BEng/MEng or MSc in Geotechnical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Engineering Geology, or related discipline.
• Proven experience in HDD design and trenchless technology projects (minimum 3-5 years preferred).
• Strong knowledge of soil mechanics, rock mechanics, and geotechnical risk assessment.
• Familiarity with UK ground conditions, geological mapping, and GI practices.
• Experience using design and analysis software such as HoleBASE, PLAXIS, Rocscience suite, or similar.
• Understanding of HDD design codes and standards (e.g., UKWIR, ASTM F1962, BS/EN standards).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Chartered or working towards Chartered status with ICE or similar professional body (CEng or CGeol).
• Experience with utility crossings, river or road HDD projects, or long-distance pipeline schemes.
• Knowledge preparing submission to the following bodies:
  Highways England (CD622), Network Rail (rail assurance process), and Canal & Rivers Trust.
• Knowledge of environmental considerations, such as bore fluid management and ecological impact.
• Site supervision or contractor liaison experience.
• CSCS card or ability to obtain.

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Flexible and hybrid working options.
• Professional development and chartership support.
• Opportunity to work on nationally significant infrastructure projects.
• A collaborative and forward-thinking engineering team.

Please submit your CV and a cover letter detailing your HDD project experience and technical expertise. Candidates must have the right to work in the UK.