Geotechnical Engineer
A geotechnical engineer works to determine the qualities of the soil prior to any building or construction occurs on the site. This is important to allow structural engineers and architects to correctly design the type of foundation that the building should be constructed on. It also is important in deciding if the area is appropriate for various types of buildings and developments. The soil quality may be inconsistent with the type of building that is being considered for the area, and the geotechnical engineer can provide that information. Issues with soil or ground quality may also occur for developing roads, placing power lines, or in drilling or mining particular areas.
The geotechnical engineer works with specialized drilling equipment that drills into the earth at specific depths and extracts a "core" or small cylindrical tube of soil. This sample is then analyzed to determine the strength of the ground at that depth in the given area, the amount of rock, sand or clay present, as well as the moisture content of the sample. These factors influence how appropriate that area will be for future development.
The engineer may also request various test be performed on the soil sample including pressure test and composition tests. A report is then prepared on the characteristics of the soil in that area and recommendations for development. Often the geotechnical engineer will work closely with the developer, landscaper, construction crews and even the landowner to ensure the building or construction is completed as effectively as possible. Good communication skills and an ability to share technical information in an understandable way is very important for a geotechnical engineer.
Common work activities include:
- Traveling to various survey or project sites and obtaining soil samples at various depths using specialized drilling equipment.
- Analyzing the soil samples to determine their composition and overall ability to support the type of development proposed.
- Working closely with soil scientists, laboratory workers and technicians to evaluate the various components of the soil.
- Researching information, writing reports and making proposals based on data collected.
- Collaborating with various other engineers and construction staff including structural engineers, architects and landscapers.
- Understanding and using several different computer programs, soil analysis software and databases as required.
Programs related to Geotechnical Engineer careers
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