Principal Engineering Geologist

In Cork; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A global engineering consultancy is seeking a Principal Engineering Geologist to lead and manage geotechnical projects in Manchester. The role requires a degree in Geology or a related field, with chartered status preferred. Responsibilities include ensuring high-quality deliverables, applying innovative geotechnical approaches, and mentoring junior team members. The position offers a hybrid work model and the opportunity to work on significant infrastructure projects across the UK. Candidates should possess strong technical skills and a desire to solve complex challenges.

Benefits

Flexible working arrangements

Support for professional development

Qualifications

• Degree in Geology, Engineering Geology, or Geotechnical Engineering (BSc or MSc).
• Chartered status (Geologist or Engineer) preferred.
• Experience as a Project Manager with a proven track record.
• Strong technical skills in engineering geology.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage geotechnical projects ensuring high-quality deliverables.
• Apply cutting-edge techniques in ground investigation and design.
• Provide technical leadership and mentoring for junior team members.

Skills

Geotechnical project management

Engineering geology

Problem-solving and innovation

Mentoring and leadership

Ground investigation practices

Education

Degree in Geology or related field

Tools

Geotechnical design software

Job description

Company Description

At AECOM, we’re delivering a better world. Whether improving your commute, keeping the lights on, providing access to clean water, or transforming skylines, our work helps people and communities thrive. We are the world’s trusted infrastructure consulting firm, partnering with clients to solve the world’s most complex challenges and build legacies for future generations. With accelerating infrastructure investment worldwide, our services are in great demand. We invite you to bring your bold ideas and big dreams and become part of a global team of over 50,000 planners, designers, engineers, scientists, digital innovators, program and construction managers and other professionals delivering projects that create a positive and tangible impact around the world.

Job Description

Are you ready to challenge the boundaries of what’s possible? We’re seeking a dynamic Principal Engineering Geologist who brings not only deep technical expertise but also an innovative mindset. Whether you come from a traditional engineering geology background or have unconventional experience that adds fresh value, we’d love to hear from you. We’re looking for a Principal Engineering Geologist to join our Ground Engineering team in Manchester office.

What can we offer?

We work for leading UK&I and international clients and have a wide range of commissions of varying scale across all sectors. Some typical examples of current and past projects include National Grid Upgrade, Thorpe Park Station, Melton Mowbray Relief Road, Network Rail CP7 and overseas work including work for the Royal Commission of Al Ula.

Key sectors:

• Energy
• Rail
• Highways
• Water
• Development
• MOD
• Nuclear sectors

Job Duties include:

• Lead and manage geotechnical projects from investigation through to design and construction, ensuring high‑quality deliverables.
• Apply cutting‑edge approaches in ground investigation, geotechnical design, and construction including slope stability assessment, remediation, and ground improvement.
• Experience in the investigation, reporting, and remediation of historic mine workings is highly desirable. A solid understanding of quaternary geology and rock mechanics would be considered a strong advantage.
• Provide technical leadership, mentoring, and development for junior team members.

Qualifications

• Degree in Geology, Engineering Geology, or Geotechnical Engineering (BSc or MSc), or a related field.
• Chartered status (Geologist or Engineer) preferred.
• Good working knowledge of common ground investigation practices, ground interpretation and soil and rock parameter assessment.
• Leading fee bids and proposals for internal and external clients.
• Experience as a Project Manager with a proven track record in managing projects and client relationships.
• Strong technical skills in engineering geology, with in‑depth knowledge of ground engineering practices.
• Experience in the production of drawings, risk assessments, specifications and design reports.
• Familiarity with current design codes, standards, and best practices in geotechnical design, but also open to exploring new methods and innovations.
• Proven leadership experience in similar roles, with an ability to inspire and lead teams.
• Willingness to travel throughout the UK.
• Clean driving licence.

Who You Are

• You’re not just technically proficient—you’re passionate about pushing the field forward.
• You thrive on solving complex challenges and enjoy thinking outside the box to deliver sustainable and innovative solutions.
• You value teamwork, mentoring, and leadership, and you’re keen to help shape the future of engineering geology.
• While you’re familiar with established methodologies, you’re also eager to embrace new tools, technologies, and ways of thinking.

Additional Information

AECOM is the world’s trusted infrastructure consulting firm, delivering professional services throughout the project lifecycle—from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. On projects spanning transportation, buildings, water, new energy and the environment, our public–and private–sector clients trust us to solve their most complex challenges.

We are a Disability Confident Employer and will offer an interview to applicants who have a disability or long‑term condition, who meet the minimum/essential criteria for the role. Please let us know using this email address if you would like to apply through the Disability Confident Interview Scheme.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Work Location Model: Hybrid.