Principal Geotechnical / Dams Engineer

Company Description

Work with Us. Change the World.

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.

There has never been a better time to be at AECOM. 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.

We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us.

Job Description

The AECOM Phoenix, Arizona office has an immediate need for an experienced Geotechnical and/or Dams Engineer who is willing to take on a leadership role in our geotechnical engineering practice in Arizona. The candidate will have the opportunity to direct projects for a variety of facilities including dams, levees, and hydropower facilities, and coordinate with a broad range of other disciplines within AECOM. The candidate should have a high level of technical expertise and experience in supervising and training staff in geotechnical investigations, analyses, reporting, and construction observation. Business development for existing and new clients will be an integral part of the position.

Responsibilities for this position include but are not limited to:

• Principal Engineer within Geotechnical Engineering Team.
• Plan and oversee field exploration/characterization and laboratory testing of soil and rock materials.
• Providing technical support to dams Project Managers, including design, analysis, inspection, construction observation, and regulatory compliance activities associated with a variety of dams.

• Providing project management support (client management, contract management, planning and execution, financial management, etc.) to dams Project Managers as a Deputy Project Manager.
• Oversee field exploration/characterization and laboratory testing of soil and rock materials.
• Oversee teams performing slope stability and seepage analyses and designing slope stabilization measures for dams, spillways, and/or levees.
• Dam construction oversight.
• Supervise preparation of technical reports, independent dam safety inspections, and potential failure mode analyses.
• Business development for new and existing clients.
• Ensure the quality of project deliverables.
• Mentoring and technical development of junior staff.
• Perform Independent Technical Reviews.
• The candidate should have a high level of technical expertise and experience in supervising and training staff in geotechnical investigations, analyses, reporting, and construction observation. Business development for existing and new clients will be an integral part of the position.

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements

• BA/BS +8 years of related experience or demonstrated equivalency of experience and education.
• Professional Engineer’s (PE) license.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Geotechnical Engineering.
• 8+ years of experience with Dam projects including inspection, rehabilitation and/or new design and construction.
• PE registration in Arizona.
• 15 years or more of experience.
• Working knowledge of relevant building code provisions.
• Strong commitment to ensuring safe project execution.
• Local travel required.
• Experience working with local permitting jurisdictions.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Additional Information

• Sponsorship for US employment authorization is not available now or in the future for this position.
• US Citizenship is a requirement for this role.

About AECOM 

AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan. 

AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients’ complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. Learn more at aecom.com. 

What makes AECOM a great place to work 

You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you’ll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you’ve always envisioned. Here, you’ll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community—where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity. 

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.