Principal Geotechnical Engineer

About the role

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced Principal Geotechnical Engineer to join a well‑established multidisciplinary consultancy in Reading. You will lead a diverse portfolio of geotechnical projects across residential, commercial, infrastructure and public sectors, working within a collaborative and technically focused team.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and manage geotechnical projects from tender stage through to completion.
• Design foundations, retaining walls, slopes and earthworks solutions.
• Oversee ground investigations, supervise site works and interpret investigation data.
• Produce high‑quality technical reports and review factual and interpretative ground investigation reports.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance.
• Liaise with clients, contractors and multidisciplinary design teams.
• Prepare fee proposals and support business development activities.
• Ensure projects are delivered safely, on time and within budget.

Required profile

• Degree in Geotechnical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Engineering Geology or a related discipline.
• Chartered or working towards Chartership with ICE or the Geological Society.
• Strong experience in geotechnical design, including foundations, retaining structures, slope stability and earthworks.
• Proven experience managing ground investigations and interpreting geotechnical data.
• Full UK driving licence.

Required skills

• Oasys Suite
• GeoStudio
• PLAXIS

What we offer

• Competitive salary (£50,000‑£60,000 per year).
• Hybrid working arrangement.
• Company pension and private healthcare.
• Annual bonus and generous annual leave with the option to buy additional days.
• Professional membership fees paid, chartership support and continuous professional development.
• Clear pathway for career progression into senior leadership.