Geotechnical Engineer (Design), Rail

About the Role

We are currently seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Geotechnical Engineer specializing in design to join our dynamic team for major railway infrastructure projects. The successful candidate will bring a minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in geotechnical engineering, with a strong focus on ground investigation, soil and rock mechanics, and a proven track record of delivering complex rail or infrastructure projects in the Middle East. Preference will be given to candidates with direct experience in Saudi Arabia, where our projects are primarily based. This is a senior-level position that offers the opportunity to lead geotechnical design initiatives while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and key stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

• Leadership in Geotechnical Design: Take charge of geotechnical design for large-scale railway infrastructure projects, ensuring compliance with international standards and local regulatory requirements. Your expertise will be critical in shaping the foundation of these projects, from feasibility studies to detailed design and construction phases.
• Site Investigations and Testing: Conduct and supervise comprehensive site investigations, including soil and rock testing, as well as laboratory analysis. Your ability to interpret geotechnical data will be essential in developing accurate and reliable design solutions.
• Technical Reporting and Documentation: Prepare clear, comprehensive technical reports and design documents that effectively communicate findings and recommendations to clients, contractors, and regulatory authorities.
• Team Leadership and Mentorship: Oversee and review the work of junior engineers and external consultants, providing guidance and ensuring high standards of technical excellence are maintained throughout the project lifecycle.
• Collaboration with Multidisciplinary Teams: Work closely with structural, civil, and environmental engineers to integrate geotechnical considerations into broader project designs, ensuring cohesive and efficient project delivery.
• Client and Stakeholder Engagement: Act as a technical liaison with clients, contractors, and local authorities, presenting geotechnical findings, recommendations, and risk assessments in a clear and professional manner. Your ability to build strong relationships will be vital to project success.
• Compliance and Risk Management: Ensure all geotechnical work adheres to health, safety, and environmental regulations, while providing input for construction methodologies, ground risk assessments, and value engineering initiatives to optimize project outcomes.
• Continuous Professional Development: Stay abreast of advancements in geotechnical engineering and relevant railway standards, particularly those applicable to the Saudi and broader Middle East context, to ensure your work reflects the latest industry best practices.

Qualifications and Experience

• Education: Hold a Bachelor’s degree in Civil or Geotechnical Engineering (a Master’s degree is preferred) from an accredited institution.
• Professional Experience: Demonstrate a minimum of 15 years of relevant experience in geotechnical engineering, with at least 5 years dedicated to railway or major infrastructure projects. Your portfolio should include extensive hands-on design experience in areas such as deep foundations, embankments, retaining structures, ground improvement, and tunneling.
• Regional Expertise: Direct experience working on projects in the Middle East is essential, with a strong preference for candidates who have worked in Saudi Arabia. A deep understanding of local geotechnical standards, railway codes, and environmental regulations is required.
• Technical Proficiency: Proficiency in geotechnical analysis and design software, including but not limited to PLAXIS, GeoStudio, gINT, and Slope/W, is necessary to effectively model and analyze complex geotechnical scenarios.
• Communication Skills: Exhibit excellent written and verbal communication skills in English. Proficiency in Arabic is considered an advantage, particularly for client-facing roles in the region.
• Professional Accreditation: Chartered Engineer status (CEng, PE, or equivalent) is highly desirable, reflecting your commitment to professional excellence and adherence to industry standards.
• Leadership and Adaptability: Demonstrate strong leadership qualities and the ability to thrive in multicultural, multidisciplinary environments. Your adaptability and problem-solving skills will be crucial in navigating the challenges of fast-paced, schedule-driven projects.

If you are a seasoned Geotechnical Engineer with a passion for delivering innovative and sustainable solutions in the railway sector, we invite you to apply and become a key contributor to our team. Join us in shaping the future of infrastructure in the Middle East and beyond.