Entry Level Geotechnical Engineer

Schnabel is an employee-owned, professional engineering and consulting firm that focuses on solving problems related to the earth and environment through specialization in geotechnical, geostructural, tunnel, and dam engineering. Schnabel’s high standards for quality, business ethics, and concern for the communities in which we live are a vital part of who we are. Schnabel is an ENR Top 500 Design Firm with 700+ employees in 32 offices throughout the United States.  

Recognized by CE News as one of the Best Engineering Firms to Work for, Schnabel provides employees with a competitive benefits package including maternity leave, tuition reimbursement for continuing education, health, dental, life and disability insurance and a wellness program. As an employee-owned company, through the Employee Stock Ownership Plan, Schnabel employees directly benefit from the success of our growing firm.  

Benefit options include:  

• Medical insurance
• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending accounts
• Employee life & ADD insurance (100% company-paid)
• Short-term disability (100% company-paid)
• Long-term disability
• Supplemental life insurance
• 401(k) and profit-sharing plan
• Employee stock ownership plan (ESOP)
• Bonus program
• Paid time off
• 9 Paid Holidays
• Wellness program
• Professional development and tuition reimbursement

Job Description: 

Are you looking for interesting and meaningful work, a fun and flexible atmosphere, and opportunities to learn, grow, and excel? If so, then welcome to Schnabel! We approach problems with creativity and innovation.  The Charlottesville, VA office of Schnabel Engineering is seeking an Entry Level Geotechnical Engineer to join our growing practice.  We are looking for a motivated candidate with an interest in developing both field and analytical skills, a passion to continue to develop as a professional, and a desire to be part of a strong team. 

Job Responsibilities: 

• Observe geotechnical-related construction and perform materials testing  
• Prepare field reports  
• Review construction observation and materials testing reports
• Plan and coordinate geotechnical and materials testing field work  
• Use GIS and GPS to aid in planning and executing geotechnical field work  

• Log test borings  
• Oversight of subcontractors including drillers, and traffic control  
• Assign and review soil laboratory tests   

• Create basic plans and figures using AutoCAD and GIS  
• Perform calculations to support geotechnical analysis  
• Provide support on preparation of geotechnical reports and proposals  

Required Skills/Experience: 

• 0-2 years of professional experience  
• Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering or related field  
• Excellent oral and written communication skills  
• Positive attitude  
• Ability to multi-task  
• Strong work ethic and a desire for continual self-improvement  
• Willingness and ability to perform field work and travel, including assignments that may last several weeks away from the office  
• Ability to lift 50 pounds and be physically able to negotiate construction sites, enter trenches, climb ladders and work outside 

Preferred Skills/Experience: 

• Prior internship or professional work in a related field (i.e. geotechnical engineering, construction, civil engineering, etc.) 
• EIT certification 

Other Requirements: 

• Must possess a valid U.S. driver’s license as driving is an essential function of the job 
• Ability to pass a background check which may include criminal history, motor vehicle record and credit check 
• Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screening 

The compensation range for this position is between $62,400 to $86,000. Compensation for this position may vary based on geographic location and other factors. We remain committed to providing competitive and equitable compensation to all employees, regardless of their location.