Entry-Level Geotechnical Engineer (Intern or Staff Engineer)

Job Description:

CME is seeking an Entry-Level Geotechnical Engineer (Intern or Staff Engineer) to join our growing geotechnical team supporting major infrastructure, transportation, and development projects throughout Northern Nevada.

This position provides an excellent opportunity for early-career engineers or engineering students to gain hands-on experience in field investigations, laboratory testing coordination, geotechnical analysis, and engineering report preparation. The role involves working closely with project managers, project engineers, drilling contractors, quality assurance/quality control managers, project inspectors and laboratory personnel to support geotechnical investigations and engineering evaluations.

The ideal candidate is motivated, detail-oriented, and eager to develop practical geotechnical engineering skills through both field and office work.

CME provides a strong mentorship environment, local experts in materials engineering and a clear pathway toward Professional Engineer (PE) licensure while working on projects that directly impact the communities of Northern Nevada.

Job Responsibilities:

• Assist with planning and coordination of geotechnical subsurface investigations, including drilling, test pit, and sampling operations.
• Assist with field instrumentation monitoring or other specialized geotechnical evaluations when required.
• Perform field observations during drilling, test pits, and other subsurface exploration activities.
• Log soil and rock samples and assist with classification using USCS and other standard methods.
• Coordinate and review laboratory testing of soils.
• Assist with engineering analyses related to foundations, retaining structures, pavements, and earthwork.
• Prepare technical calculations, figures, tables, and engineering documentation to support geotechnical reports.
• Assist with preparation of geotechnical engineering reports and recommendations.
• Review project plans, specifications, and geotechnical data.
• Support project managers and project engineers with technical tasks, project documentation, and internal coordination.

 

Physical Requirements:

This position involves a combination of office and field work. The candidate must be able to perform the following physical activities with or without reasonable accommodation:

• Ability to walk on uneven terrain.
• Ability to stand, kneel, crouch, and climb for extended periods during field investigations.
• Ability to lift and carry equipment weighing up to 50 pounds (e.g., sampling equipment, DCP equipment, ReMi and refraction equipment, support tools).
• Ability to operate hand tools and field equipment used in geotechnical or environmental investigations.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions including heat, cold, wind, and precipitation.
• Ability to enter trenches or excavations in accordance with OSHA safety requirements.
• Ability to travel to remote project sites and access locations that may require hiking or walking moderate distances.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

 

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Geological Engineering, or a closely related field (or currently pursuing for intern candidates).
• Fundamentals of Engineering (FE/EIT) certification preferred or ability to obtain.
• Strong interest in geotechnical engineering and subsurface investigations.
• Coursework or knowledge in soil mechanics, foundation engineering, and geotechnical engineering principles. Rock mechanics knowledge is a plus.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work both in the office and in outdoor field environments.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to project sites.

 

Preferred Skills:

• Prior internship or coursework related to geotechnical engineering, geology, or construction materials testing.
• Experience logging soils and performing field exploration work.
• Experience with engineering software such as Excel, AutoCAD, gINT, Slide, Settle, CLiq, or geotechnical analysis software.
• Knowledge of Northern Nevada soil and geologic conditions is a plus.

 

Why Join CME?

CME is a trusted Northern Nevada engineering firm with decades of experience supporting major infrastructure, transportation, data center, and development projects throughout the region through geotechnical engineering, construction cost estimating, materials testing, special inspection, and construction management services. This role provides hands-on experience with geotechnical investigations, engineering analysis, and report preparation while working closely with experienced geotechnical engineers and project managers. Your work will have an impact on the local community.

 

What We Offer:

CME provides an excellent benefits package, including:

• Collaborative, supportive culture emphasizing teamwork, efficiency and quality
• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid PE licensure and other certifications and training
• Paid time off, sick time, holiday pay, overtime pay, and annual bonuses and raises
• Annual performance review with potential bonuses
• Opportunities for advancement within a growing firm
• Employee focused and fun working environment

 

Job Snapshot:

Position: Entry-Level Geotechnical Engineer (Intern or Staff Engineer)

Salary Range: EI: $30-45/hr. | PE: $45-60/hr.

Employment Type: Full-Time

Job Type: Geotechnical Engineering, Field Investigation, Engineering Analysis

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Geological Engineering, or related field (or currently pursuing)

Experience: Entry-level to early career (0-5 years experience)

Manages Others: No

Industry Environment: Engineering, Construction, Public Works, Infrastructure, Development

In-Person, Hybrid, or Remote: In-Person

Required Travel: Primarily local; occasional travel to project sites as needed

Work Environment: This position involves a combination of office work and outdoor field investigations. Field work may include construction sites, drilling locations, and undeveloped terrain.