Project Geotechnical Lead

Project Geotechnical Lead – Stantec

We are looking for a Geotechnical Engineer with proven experience in dam evaluation and design to join our Energy group in Irvine or San Diego, CA. This technical leadership role focuses on managing multi‑disciplinary teams on dam and hydropower projects, including design and rehabilitation of embankments and concrete dams.

• Lead geotechnical and civil design for embankment and concrete dams, spillways, outlet works, and appurtenant structures.
• Manage project teams (1–10 staff) through all phases of design, fostering growth and technical development of junior staff.
• Conduct and oversee design calculations and technical analyses, including seepage modeling, slope stability, deformation and foundation evaluations using SEEP/W, SLOPE/W, FLAC, PLAXIS, Phase2, etc.
• Develop design drawings and technical specifications for 30%, 60%, 90%, and 100% design.
• Prepare and lead development of technical reports such as Geotechnical Work Plans, Geotechnical Data Reports (GDRs), Geotechnical Baseline Reports (GBRs), feasibility studies, field reports, and other design and evaluation reports.
• Participate in FERC Part 12D reviews, PFMA workshops, and Risk Informed Decision Making assessments.
• Develop familiarity with regulatory requirements and industry standards; interface with agencies (FERC, DSOD, USACE) to support permitting and compliance.
• Support feasibility studies by identifying challenges and developing solutions.
• Provide technical input on proposals, cost estimates, and construction planning.
• Travel to project sites domestically and internationally as needed.
• Contribute to internal initiatives focused on knowledge sharing, innovation, and quality management.
• Support business development through client engagement, pursuits, and talent identification.
• Adhere to company safety protocols and lead by example in planning and executing work safely.
• Stay current with evolving dam safety regulations, design tools, and risk assessment methodologies.

• Demonstrated leadership on large dam projects.
• Working knowledge of civil/geotechnical engineering principles.
• Proficient in geotechnical software:
  Geo Studio (SEEP/W, SLOPE/W), FLAC, PLAXIS, Phase
  2.
• Knowledge of regulatory frameworks and design standards (DSOD, USACE, US , FERC).
• Willingness to travel nationally and internationally.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills in English.

• 10–15 years of professional experience in geotechnical engineering.
• Minimum 3 years dedicated to dam engineering (investigation, evaluation, design, construction).
• Bachelor’s degree in Civil or Geotechnical Engineering (required);
  Master’s preferred.
• PE license (required);
  California PE preferred or ability to obtain within 1 year.

• Locations in CO, HI, IL, MD & various CA, NJ – Min $117,800 – Max $176,800.
• Locations in WA, DC & various CA, MA – Min $126,400 – Max $189,600.

Regular full‑time and part‑time employees have access to medical, dental, and vision plans, a wellness program, HSA, flexible spending accounts, 401(k), employee stock purchase program, life and AD&D insurance, disability plans, emergency travel benefits, tuition reimbursement, professional membership fee coverage, and paid family leave. Ten paid holidays each calendar year. Vacation accrual 10–20 days per year and paid sick leave. Temporary/casual employees receive 401(k), employee stock purchase program, and paid leave.

Benefits may differ for union positions.

Stantec provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants for future and current employment, prohibiting discrimination on the grounds of race, colour, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, genetic information, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression. We comply with applicable laws and ensure equitable opportunities in all aspects of employment. If reasonable adjustments are needed during recruitment, please inform a member of our Talent Acquisition team.