Geotechnical Engineer

GCSEs and A levels:
Maths, Chemistry and Geology. I hold an MEarth

Sci Earth and Planetary Sciences (Geochemistry) from the University of Manchester and a year abroad at the University of Vermont. I’m currently also completing my MSc Geotechnical Engineering part time through the degree apprenticeship scheme.

What does a Graduate Geotechnical Engineer do?

I am mostly office based, completing Phase 1 and Phase 2 ground investigation reports as well as design work, GIS mapping and stability assessments.

I go to sites around the UK every few weeks to supervise ground investigations, complete site walkovers or conduct drone surveys.

What formal qualifications and/or previous work experience did you need to get your job?

I needed an Earth Science undergraduate degree to get into the industry. I then worked towards my Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card upon getting the job.

Apart from formal qualifications, what other skills or characteristics do you need in your role?

Motivation, hardworking, team player, effective communication, multi tasking, critical thinking and problem solving.

What sort of organisation do you work for?

A small geotechnical and geoenvironmental consultancy in the North West.

Where else could you work as a Graduate Geotechnical Engineer?

Every single industry has a need for geotechnics – construction, logistics, energy.

" It’s not as scary as it feels to go into a job knowing nothing! With the right attitude it is totally achievable to learn 100% or there abouts whilst at the job. "

Do you travel, either within the UK or overseas, in your role?

Within the UK 2 times a month.

Do you work a regular length day/week, or are shifts involved?

We work a 4-day 32 hour week – we love to shout about our improved wellbeing running a 4 day work week.

What do you enjoy about your job?

I love the satisfaction that comes with a job well done. I enjoy the progression I’ve seen in myself in knowledge but also in self-belief that I can be authoritative.

What advice or extra information do you wish you’d had before starting this career?

It’s not as scary as it feels to go into a job knowing nothing! With the right attitude its totally achievable to learn 100% or there abouts of the job whilst at the job.

What opportunities do you have for developing your skills in your current role?

I see a natural career progression. There are lots of different talks and jobs going on at all times, the small nature of the company means I get to see a job from the initial email to a final completed job.

What position would you like to hold in 5 years time?

Geotechnical engineer, or senior geotechnical engineer.