Lead Geotechnical Engineer

Lead Geotechnical Engineer

Position:
Lead Geotechnical Engineer – WSP, Tempe, AZ

WSP is a global leader in environmental consulting with world‑class expertise in environmental, social and governance (ESG), climate resiliency & sustainability (CRS), and earth sciences. With more than 20,000 multidisciplinary professionals worldwide, WSP protects and conserves natural landscapes, creates firm foundations for communities, and champions sustainable development to combat climate change.

As part of the geotechnical team, you will have access to an unparalleled network of resources and opportunities to collaborate on exciting projects across the globe. You will be based in Tempe, AZ, supporting the Civil, Ground Engineering and Materials;
Earth and Environment Team.

Provide geotechnical engineering assistance and guidance for small to large field programs in transportation, power, property and building, and mining. Tasks may include managing and providing support on diverse projects with services that include an emphasis on geohazard identification, field reconnaissance, subsurface investigation programs, engineering design, construction support, and geohazard monitoring and instrumentation.

• Collect, compile, and analyze data from work sites, soil/rock samples, surveys, GIS data, subsurface information, maps, and other matrices for project development, design, and construction.
• Maintain quality control standards and procedures for accurate measurements and engineering analyses.
• Perform professional geotechnical engineering work for subsurface investigations, soil foundation engineering, settlement analysis, soil erosion, geological hazards, groundwater, and slope stability.
• Use advanced modeling techniques and design standards to ensure safety and functionality for end‑users and future‑ready solutions.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams of engineers, planners, and scientists to execute project work.
• Verify site characteristics and provide technical assistance on environmental, soil, stress‑bearing, erosion, settlement, and slope risks.
• Prepare data visualizations, tables, charts, reports, sketches, calculations, and illustrations for interpretation and presentation.
• Assist with scoping and development of small‑to‑medium‑sized projects.
• Conduct geotechnical studies and surveys to gather information critical to design and future planning.
• Analyze and interpret field investigation data, contributing to low‑ to mid‑level risk mitigation plans.
• Provide direction and technical guidance to junior staff.
• Contribute to the preparation and implementation of site Health and Safety Plans (HASPs).
• Exercise responsible and ethical decision‑making regarding company resources and conduct, adhering to WSP’s Code of Conduct.
• Interact professionally with regulatory agencies, subcontractors, and clients.
• Remain current on latest civil engineering techniques and practices.
• Perform additional responsibilities as required by business needs.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Civil or Geotechnical Engineering, or closely related discipline.
• Minimum 7 years of post‑education engineering experience with prior geotechnical design experience.
• Professional Engineer license in Arizona, or ability to obtain it within 6 months.
• Technical knowledge of geotechnical engineering, including deep and shallow foundations, slope stability, earthquake engineering, retaining walls, rock mechanics, ground improvement, excavation support, dewatering, and permitting.
• Experience with infrastructure planning, design, and construction management, including rehabilitation and new design.
• Strong understanding of rock and soil mechanics for subsurface investigation and foundation design.
• Ability to coordinate with agency regulators and understand requirements.
• Knowledge of remediation, permitting, improvement, and construction laws, codes, regulations, and compliance practices.
• Effective interpersonal and communication skills for engineering and non‑engineering audiences.
• Strong self‑leadership, attention to detail, results orientation, and ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic work environment.
• Ability to learn new…