Principal Geotechnical Engineer – Underground Structures

Principal Geotechnical Engineer – Underground Structures

Join to apply for the Principal Geotechnical Engineer – Underground Structures role at WSP in the UK & Ireland.

At WSP, you can access our global scale, contribute to landmark projects and connect with the brightest minds in your field to do the best work of your life. You can embrace your curiosity in a culture that celebrates new ideas and diverse perspectives. You can experience a world of opportunity and the chance to shape a career as unique as you.

We are seeking an experienced Principal Geotechnical Engineer with a proven track record in the design and delivery of underground tunnels and shafts in both soft ground and hard rock conditions. You will join a diverse team of engineers, scientists, and modellers, contributing to landmark projects across the UK, Ireland, and internationally. Our team values diversity of experience and collaborative working, and we offer an integration period to help you familiarise yourself with colleagues and projects.

• Lead geotechnical design for underground structures including tunnels, shafts, and associated works from concept through detailed design and construction phases.
• Apply advanced soil and rock mechanics principles to develop safe, efficient, and innovative solutions for underground projects.
• Ensure compliance with relevant design standards and guidance (e.g., Eurocode 7, BS codes, ITA guidelines, and applicable local regulations).
• Undertake and review geotechnical analyses such as stability assessments, ground‑structure interaction modelling, and support system design.
• Oversee ground investigation planning, interpretation of geotechnical data, and development of geotechnical baseline reports.
• Manage technical delivery of multi‑disciplinary projects, coordinating inputs from structural, civil, and environmental teams.
• Provide expert advice on excavation methods, ground improvement techniques, and temporary/permanent support systems.
• Conduct site inspections, supervise construction activities, and provide technical input during tunnelling and shaft sinking operations.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to internal training programmes and knowledge‑sharing initiatives.
• Support business development through proposal preparation, client engagement, and participation in industry conferences.
• Promote health, safety, and equality in all aspects of work, adhering to company policies and values.

• Degree qualified in Civil Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, or Engineering Geology (postgraduate qualification desirable).
• Extensive experience in geotechnical design for underground tunnels and shafts in soft ground and/or hard rock.
• Strong understanding of ground behaviour, soil and rock mechanics, and geotechnical risk management.
• Familiarity with tunnelling methods (e.g., TBM, NATM, SCL) and shaft sinking techniques.
• Proficiency in geotechnical analysis software (e.g., PLAXIS, FLAC, Geo Studio) and interpretation of ground investigation data.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects and lead multi‑disciplinary teams.
• Excellent communication skills and willingness to travel within the UK and internationally.

If you don’t meet all that we are looking for please still consider applying. Not everyone will meet all the requirements, but you might have skills we didn’t know we need.

We are one of the world’s leading engineering and professional services firms. Our 72,800 passionate people are united by the common purpose of creating positive, long‑lasting impacts on the communities we serve through a culture of innovation, integrity, and inclusion. With over 9,000 professionals across the UK and Ireland, we are dedicated to our local communities and propelled by international brainpower.

Work‑life balance: hybrid working policy offering flexibility to work from home two days a week, and collaboration in modern offices across the UK. Inclusivity & belonging: we welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and experiences. Health & wellbeing: support through our Thrive programme, Virtual GP service,…