Staff Geotechnical Engineer (PE)
Geotechnical Engineering | Special Inspections | Construction Materials Testing
Position Overview
Zannino Engineering is seeking a licensed Professional Engineer to serve as a Staff Geotechnical Engineer. This role is responsible for managing geotechnical engineering projects, providing technical oversight, sealing engineering documents, and supporting construction materials testing and special inspection services.
The Staff Geotechnical Engineer works closely with engineering technicians, EITs, project managers, and clients to ensure projects are executed safely, accurately, and in accordance with applicable codes, standards, and professional practice.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage and execute geotechnical engineering projects from proposal through completion
- Perform and oversee subsurface investigations and geotechnical evaluations
- Review field logs, laboratory data, and testing results for accuracy and compliance
- Prepare, review, and seal geotechnical engineering reports, calculations, and recommendations
- Provide technical direction and mentoring to EITs and field technicians
- Support third-party and special inspection services as required
- Coordinate with clients, contractors, and regulatory agencies
- Ensure adherence to company standards, safety requirements, and quality control procedures
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, or a related discipline
- Active Professional Engineer (PE) license in Virginia or ability to obtain through comity
- Five or more years of progressive experience in geotechnical engineering
- Experience with field investigations, laboratory testing, and engineering analysis
- Valid driver’s license with a positive driving record
- Ability to perform site visits and limited field work as needed
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with construction materials testing and special inspections
- Familiarity with Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) and local jurisdiction requirements
- Prior experience supervising EITs or technical staff
- Strong report writing and technical review skills
Performance Expectations (Key KPIs)
The Staff Geotechnical Engineer is expected to:
- Independently manage geotechnical projects with minimal oversight
- Consistently deliver accurate, defensible, and timely engineering reports
- Provide effective technical guidance and mentoring to junior staff
- Maintain quality control and risk management across assigned projects
- Support business development efforts through client interaction and technical expertise
Core Competencies and Values
Evaluated by leadership and peers:
- Strong technical judgment and ethical decision-making
- Clear, concise written and verbal communication
- Accountability for sealed work and professional responsibility
- Organized and efficient project management skills
- Ability to work collaboratively with field, lab, and office teams
- Professional demeanor with clients and project partners
- Commitment to safety, accuracy, and continuous improvement
Work Environment
- Office-based with regular field and site visits
- Exposure to active construction sites and outdoor conditions
- Occasional extended hours based on project needs