Senior Geotechnical Specialist
Job Description
Our newest opportunity is for talented Senior Geotechnical Specialist to join our award-winning team based in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
This critical role will be assisting in all geotechnical engineering matters across planning, design, procurement, and construction phases. The role ensures that ground-related risks are properly identified, managed, and mitigated, and that all geotechnical works meet project requirements, and regulatory obligations.
To be successful in this dynamic opportunity, we envision that your career journey to date will include 12-15 years of work experience partnered with a Bachelor's or Masters degree in Civil Engineering with specialization in Geotechnical Engineering or equivalent.
Furthermore, you should demonstrate:
Experience in client-side, consultancy, or large infrastructure projects.
Regional experience (e.g., Middle East soil conditions) is advantageous.
Technical Skills:
In-depth knowledge of:
Soil mechanics and rock mechanics
Foundation systems (shallow, deep foundations)
Ground improvement techniques
Excavation support systems (shoring, diaphragm walls, sheet piles)
Familiar with geotechnical software such as PLAXIS, GeoStudio, or similar.
Strong understanding of international codes and standards.
Key Skills:
Strong technical judgment and problem-solving ability
Risk management and analytical thinking
Stakeholder management and coordination
Effective communication and reporting skills
Responsibilities Duties:
We envisage success in this role to include;
Technical Oversight & Advisory:
Reviewing and approving geotechnical investigation plans, reports, and recommendations prepared by consultants and contractor’s specialists.
Suggesting the Employer the feasibility of ground improvement requirement.
Providing expert advice on soil, rock, groundwater conditions, and foundation solutions based on 3rd party reports.
Ensuring alignment of geotechnical designs with project requirements, codes, and standards.
Evaluating geotechnical design alternatives (foundations, slopes, retaining structures, ground improvement methods).
Project Planning & Risk Management:
Identifying geotechnical risks during early project stages and develop mitigation strategies.
Contributing to feasibility studies, land acquisition assessments, and site selection from a geotechnical perspective.
Establishing geotechnical design criteria, design basis reports, and performance requirements.
Participating in value engineering exercises to optimize cost and constructability.
Consultant & Contractor Management:
Coordinating and managing geotechnical 3rd party consultants and testing agencies.
Reviewing contractor method statements, temporary works designs, and construction methodologies related to geotechnical works.
Ensuring contractors comply with geotechnical specifications and approved designs.
Resolving technical queries (RFIs) related to geotechnical aspects.
Construction Phase Support:
Monitoring geotechnical activities such as excavations, piling, ground improvement, and earthworks.
Reviewing instrumentation and monitoring data (settlement, vibration, groundwater levels).
Identifying and addressing unexpected ground conditions or deviations from design assumptions.
Supporting dispute resolution related to ground conditions and claims.
Quality Assurance & Compliance:
Ensuring compliance with project specifications, international standards (e.g., Eurocode, ASTM, BS), and local regulations.
Reviewing geotechnical testing results and quality control documentation.
Participating in audits, inspections, and technical reviews.
Stakeholder Coordination:
Interfacing with design teams, construction teams, authorities, and third-party stakeholders.
Providing geotechnical inputs to multidisciplinary coordination meetings.
Supporting permitting and approvals related to ground and foundation works.
Documentation & Reporting:
Preparing and reviewing technical reports, risk registers, and project updates.
Maintaining proper documentation of geotechnical decisions and approvals.
Providing regular updates to senior management on geotechnical risks and progress.