Graduate Geotechnical Engineer - 2026
At Mott MacDonald, we believe that engineering is about more than solving problems, it’s about shaping a future that’s inclusive, resilient, and sustainable. As we expand our operations across the US and Canada, we’re inviting passionate individuals to join us in a journey that’s driven by purpose and powered by brilliant people. We’re trusted consultants, partnering with clients to solve complex challenges and deliver lasting impact.
From the moment you join our team, you’ll be surrounded by experienced engineering consultants, project managers, and subject matter experts who are committed to excellence and innovation. You’ll work side-by-side with mentors and peers who champion integrity and teamwork, because we know collaboration drives better outcomes – and you won’t just apply your engineering skills, you’ll also embrace the mindset of a consultant.
Together, we’ll tackle complex challenges, deliver sustainable solutions, and create positive change for our clients and the communities they serve. You’ll be trusted to contribute, encouraged to grow, and supported every step of the way.
As a participant in our brand‑new graduate program, Blueprint, launching in October 2026, you’ll embark on a structured three‑year development journey designed in partnership with an award‑winning learning provider. The program blends immersive learning experiences with mandatory development sessions to build the professional, commercial, and personal effectiveness skills graduates need to thrive and grow into future leaders within our business.
Your responsibilities may include:
- Log soil borings (hollow-stem auger, mud rotary, sonic) per ASTM D2488/USCS and Caltrans logging conventions; document SPT and Modified California sampling
- Observe CPT soundings, test pits, and geophysical surveys; coordinate with drilling and CPT subcontractors
- Coordinate USA/DigAlert clearances, encroachment permits, and site access ahead of fieldwork
- Monitor instrumentation (inclinometers, settlement plates, piezometers, vibration monitors) and reduce readings
- Maintain daily field reports, photo logs, and quantity tracking for drilling and construction activities
- Assist with the assignment and tracking of geotechnical laboratory tests (moisture/density, Atterberg limits, gradation, direct shear, consolidation, triaxial, R-value, expansion index, corrosivity) and reviewing the results for consistency with the field logs
- Prepare boring logs in OpenGround; develop subsurface profiles and cross sections
- Perform or assist with geotechnical analyses under the direction of a Geotechnical Engineer, including shallow foundations, deep foundations, slope stability, seepage, liquefaction triggering, seismic settlement, lateral spreading evaluation, and pavement design
- Draft sections of geotechnical investigation reports, foundation reports (Caltrans FR format), and geotechnical design memoranda
- Assist with the preparation of figures, site plans, and boring location maps
To be considered for this 2026 opportunity, here’s what you’ll need:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering (geotechnical focus)
- Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification, or the ability to obtain EIT certification within 12 months
- The desire to work toward and obtain California PE and GE licensure
- Creative thinking skills, with a methodical and pragmatic approach to problem solving
- Proficient communication and presentation skills to engage confidently with clients and colleagues
- Resilient, solution-oriented mindset, with a focus on continuous growth and delivering value
- Ability to build and maintain relationships and rapport with internal and external stakeholders
- Collaborative spirit and commitment to teamwork
- A valid CA driver's license
- Self-motivated and able to work as part of a team
- Demonstrated interest in your chosen field through previous internships, volunteering opportunities, or organization memberships
This position is located in Los Angeles, California. You must be able to reliably commute to our office in this location, per our hybrid working policy.
We’re more than engineers - we’re changemakers. At Mott MacDonald, you’ll find:
- Best in class learning and development initiatives
- Dedicated mentorship program
- Network of Employee Resource Groups
- Opportunities for excellence everyday
We welcome individuals who are driven by curiosity, compassion, and a desire to make a difference. If you’re excited by the idea of working in an engineering consultant that values your growth and empowers you to lead with integrity, we’d love to hear from you.
Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the US, as Mott MacDonald is unable to provide sponsorship at this time. (US Only)