Principal Geotechnical Engineer

Principal Geotechnical / Geo-Environmental Engineer

Location:

South West England - near Plymouth

Salary: from £50,000 plus package - negotiable depending on experience

Contract Type:
Permanent, Full-time (Part-time considered)

A growing civil and environmental consultancy is seeking an experienced principal geotechnical / geo-environmental engineer to lead a team delivering technically challenging projects across the region. This is a leadership role for an engineer who enjoys balancing project management, technical oversight, and mentoring within a collaborative and forward‑thinking practice.

You will take overall responsibility for the technical direction and quality assurance of geotechnical and environmental projects, while driving innovation and supporting the professional growth of others.

• Providing technical leadership across geotechnical and geo‑environmental services.
• Overseeing the planning, procurement, and supervision of ground investigations.
• Reviewing and approving investigation designs and interpretative reports.
• Leading the design and interpretation of geotechnical data to inform civil and structural schemes.
• Delivering and signing off Phase I–IV contaminated land assessments and risk evaluations.
• Producing and reviewing CEMPs, MMPs, earthworks specifications, and waste management plans.
• Ensuring compliance with CDM, H&S, and environmental permitting requirements.
• Managing client relationships and representing the company at meetings and negotiations.
• Coordinating with civil and structural teams on multi‑disciplinary projects.
• Mentoring and developing junior and senior engineers.
• Contributing to business development and quality management processes.

• Degree in Engineering Geology, Geotechnical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or related field.
• Typically 8+ years’ experience in geotechnical or geo‑environmental consultancy.
• Chartered or near‑chartered with ICE, IStruct
  
  E, or Geol Soc.
• Proven track record in leading projects, managing teams, and maintaining client relationships.
• Strong understanding of British Standards, Eurocodes, and environmental legislation.
• Excellent report writing, communication, and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to work independently while contributing to company strategy.
• Full UK driving licence.

• 28 days annual leave + 8 Bank Holidays.
• Company pension scheme.
• Structured training and development support towards chartership.
• Funded external courses, mentoring, and industry events.
• Flexible / hybrid working arrangements.
• Supportive culture promoting leadership growth and work‑life balance.