Geotechnical Engineering

What is Geotechnical Engineering?

• Geo – • Technical –• What do they do?– Go out to construction sites to test soil– Bring soil back to the lab to test

means earthhaving special knowledge

Questions geotechnical engineers answer…

• How tall can we make a building on this ground?

• Can we build a road here?• If we cut through this mountain, will the

slopes collapse down onto the road?

When do we need Geotechnical Engineers?

• Whenever there is construction!– Roads– Bridges– Buildings– Excavations

Geotechnical Engineering Gone Wrong

Geotechnical Engineering Gone Right

Careers in Geotechnical Areas• Salary: $50,000 - $57,000• Education: Bachelor’s• Experience: 0-2 years

Geotechnical Engineer

• Salary: $51,000 - $61,000• Education: Bachelor’s • Experience: 0-2 years

Civil Engineer

• Salary: $35,000 - $44,000• Education: Bachelor’s• Experience: 0-2 years

GIS Analyst

• Salary: $33,000 - $48,000• Education: High School Diploma/G.E.D.• Experience: 0-2 years

Land Surveyor

• Salary: $27,000 - $39,000• Education: High School Diploma/ G.E.D.• Experience: 0-2 years

Construction Representative Assistant

Geotechnical Engineer

• Prepares and inspects projects involving drilling and exploration

• Responsible for geological mapping, report writing, site characterization, numerical modeling and analysis of excavations/supports

Civil Engineer

• Designs and supervises construction projects such as airports, bridges, channels, dams, railroads and roads

• Responsibilities also include estimating costs and personnel and material needs, preparing proposals and establishing completion dates

GIS Analyst

• Utilizes Geographic Information System techniques to provide a better understanding of certain variables in a given geographic location

• Extracts data from GIS software and uses varying analysis methods to arrive at results. Recommends appropriate reactionary strategies in response to GIS analysis

• Provides maps and data sets to clients to supplement analysis. Knowledgeable of GIS software and technology

• Works in conjunction with CADD drafters and technicians

Land Surveyor

• Surveys and investigates land surfaces to project precise measurement and location of lines, angles, points, areas and elevations

• Performs project research, boundary calculations, and records accuracy of survey data, notes and sketches

Construction Representative Assistant

• Observes and inspects construction to ensure adherence to specifications and contract documents

• Requires technical knowledge and experience in given field of inspection work

• May be responsible for overseeing several disciplines