Demo

Geotechnical Project Engineer

smeinc
Columbia, SC Full Time
POSTED ON 10/14/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 12/18/2026

Geotechnical Project Engineer

Requisition Number: 2026-1610-07


Build Your Career. Own Your Future.

At S&ME, you're more than just an employee, you're an employee-owner of a 100% employee-owned company that has been solving complex geotechnical, civil, environmental, and construction materials testing challenges for over 50 years. We're invested in your success and offer a career path with growth opportunities, training, and hands-on experience. Join a team that values safety, integrity, and teamwork while offering industry-leading benefits designed to help you thrive - on and off the job, including but not limited to:

  • Medical, dental & vision plans with HSA and FSA options
  • 100% Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) with a minimum 5% company contribution
  • 401(k) with employer match
  • PTO with rollover
  • Maternity/Parental leave
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Company vehicle & fuel card for project-based work
  • Employee recognition & credential incentive programs
  • $2,000 referral bonuses and more!

Your Role: Hands-On, Impactful, and Fast-Paced

As a Geotechnical Project Engineer you will be supporting work across our Columbia, South Carolina, and Augusta, Georgia offices.

You will manage and contribute to geotechnical engineering assignments from initial planning to final delivery, using engineering expertise to address site-specific and subsurface challenges. You will collaborate with project managers, field personnel, laboratory staff, and clients to evaluate technical findings, prepare engineering solutions, and produce accurate reports for a variety of infrastructure and construction projects in both the public and private sectors. This position combines technical problem-solving, project management support, and client communication, with opportunities to expand your skills and advance your career while working with an experienced geotechnical team.


What You'll Do:

  • Project Management & Coordination: Assist with leading geotechnical projects by organizing subsurface investigations, field activities, and laboratory services while maintaining project timelines, budgets, and deliverables.
  • Geotechnical Evaluation & Recommendations: Interpret soil, rock, and groundwater conditions to provide engineering guidance for foundation systems, grading, pavement design, and site development.
  • Engineering Reports & Deliverables: Develop technical reports, engineering calculations, and design guidance that present project results, potential concerns, and key assumptions to clients and internal teams.
  • Communication & Project Support: Partner with project managers, field crews, subcontractors, and clients to resolve technical issues, respond to site changes, and keep project activities on track.
  • Staff Development & Safety: Provide guidance to less-experienced team members while supporting workplace safety, technical quality, and continued professional growth.

What We're Looking For:

  • You have a Bachelor's degree in Civil, Geotechnical, Mining, or a related engineering field
  • You have a minimum of 4 years of related geotechnical engineering experience, which preferably includes some extent of project management responsibilities
  • You have a Professional Engineer (PE) license or the ability to obtain within 6 months of hire

What to Expect:

With the use of Company-provided Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

  • Outdoor, hands-on work in all weather conditions
  • Walking over rough terrain and standing for long periods (up to 12 hours)
  • Lifting and carrying 40-50 lbs. of materials and equipment
  • Safely handling field tools and maneuvering equipment on active construction sites

Why Join S&ME?

At S&ME, your career growth matters. You'll receive professional training, work on exciting projects, and be part of a company that truly invests in its people. This is more than a job; it's a chance to build a long-term career in the engineering and construction industry.

Ready to Get Started? Apply today and take the first step toward an exciting future with S&ME!


This full-time role offers competitive pay based on experience. Candidates must comply with our Fleet Management, Substance Policy, and Reference Check requirements. Only candidates with valid employment eligibility (I-9) will be considered. Visa assistance is not available. S&ME reserves the right to hire internally or externally at any time. No candidate/recruiter calls, personal calls, or walk-ins are accepted.


Salary.com Estimation for Geotechnical Project Engineer in Columbia, SC
$76,780 to $101,135
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