Principal Geotechnical Engineer - Tunnels, Dams & Mega Infrastructure

At Jacobs, we're reimagining how major infrastructure shapes the world, delivering some of the most complex, high-impact programs across water, dams, and heavy civil works. Our work meaningfully improves the livability and connectivity of our local communities, with a focus on building and strengthening an equitable, diverse, and inclusive society. We apply our expertise and knowledge as we look into the future with great optimism and focus.

We don't settle until we give our best and know that we're making a difference.

We are seeking an exceptional Principal Geotechnical Engineer to play a senior leadership role within our global practice, someone who thrives at the intersection of technical excellence, major program delivery, and strategic advisory.

This role is designed for a recognized expert who wants to influence iconic projects, mentor top talent, and serve as a trusted advisor on complex geotechnical challenges worldwide. This person will serve as a technical authority and senior advisor across major infrastructure programs, supporting projects such as dams, water systems, mining developments, and large-scale transportation infrastructure.

This role goes beyond project execution. You will shape design strategies, guide multidisciplinary teams, and support clients on their most critical geotechnical risks and decisions.

You may also act as

* Geotechnical SME and reviewer on complex programs over various delivery alternatives (design-build, design-bid-build, CMAR, etc)

* Program-level advisor supporting owners, contractors, and claims teams

* Engineer of Record for significant and complex geotechnical elements

* Mentor and technical leader across global delivery teams

Principal duties & responsibilities

* Provide senior technical leadership across major geotechnical programs from concept through construction and commissioning

* Serve as a trusted advisor to clients, including owners and program leadership teams

* Support and provide leadership on major programs for large infrastructure mega-projects.

* Lead or support independent technical reviews, design validation, and risk assessments for large infrastructure projects

* Guide geotechnical aspects of:

* Dams and levees (earth fill, RCC, tailings)

* Deep foundations and ground improvement

* Hard rock and soil tunneling

* Excavation support and underground works

* Seismic design and soil-structure interaction

* Complex site conditions (soft soils, liquefaction, high rainfall environments)

* Manage technical oversight in dam design, geotechnical investigations, slope stability, seepage analysis, structural integrity, quarries, aggregate production, and thermal cracking control

* Manage technical oversight of RCC mix design and optimization, placement, compaction, and quality control, ensuring adherence to international standards and safety protocols

* Manage technical oversight of tunnel works, including alignment selection, excavation methods (TBM, drill and blast), ground support design, groundwater control, lining systems, construction sequencing, and risk management for complex subsurface conditions

* Contribute to claims analysis, dispute resolution, and expert reviews when required

* Support major pursuits and strategic growth initiatives across the Americas and globally

* Mentor and develop geotechnical talent, strengthening Jacobs' technical bench

* Direct preparation and assure quality in technical reports, technical specifications, and design drawings

* Assist client to implement dam safety programs, emergency action plans, and regulatory compliance strategies

* Occasional travel requires potential international expatriate assignments

* MS and/or PhD in Civil/Geotechnical Engineering

* Registration as a professional engineer and/or engineering geologist in the United States is required

* Long-standing professional experience performing geotechnical projects

* 20+ years of professional experience

Ideally, you'll also have

* Mega-project/program experience during planning, design and construction execution

* International experience includes relocation to different geographies

* Dam and levee design and analysis experience

* Familiarity with international dam…