The term geotechnical refers to geology’s practical applications, most commonly in civil engineering and mining. Most geotechnical firms use this science to design earthworks and structure foundations, as well as monitor site conditions and construct foundations. In most cases, these projects entail a subsurface site investigation to determine the distribution of bedrock, soil, and faults.
Civil engineers typically work for geotechnical firms. They work on construction projects to determine the chemical, physical, and mechanical properties of subsurface materials in order to assess the risks that their condition may pose. Site investigations are essential for construction and geotechnical firms to develop a detailed understanding of the area where engineering and construction will take place.
The assessment of the risk to people, property, and the environment from natural hazards such as earthquakes, landslides, and sinkholes is one of the details that these investigations look for. Geologic mapping, geophysical methods, and photogrammetry, a process that determines the geometric properties of items from a photograph, are all examples of how surface explorations are carried out. Geotechnical engineers determine the type of foundations, earthworks, and pavement subgrades required for most construction projects. High-rise buildings, bridges, and tunnels are the most common types of construction projects. Geotechnical engineers and other civil engineers can also be consulted for earthquake engineering, environmental engineering, and water resources engineering projects.
Coastal engineering and ocean engineering are geotechnical engineering sub-disciplines. Coastal engineering companies are typically hired to build marinas, wharves, and jetties. Ocean engineering geotechnical companies are also known as subsea companies, and they work on the ocean floor. Many of these subsea companies use drills, pipes, and exploration equipment to look for oil and gas fields to mine.
Other types of businesses can be classified as geotechnical firms. Geotechnical and civil engineers can help manufacturers, distributors, and service companies plan, build, and manage their infrastructure. Geotechnical engineers can also help with forensic engineering projects and the construction of medical institutions and universities.
Anyone considering working for a geotechnical firm should be aware that the majority of geotechnical engineers have completed a four-year civil engineering program. Many of these engineers go on to get their master’s degree. Engineers in the United States are typically licensed by the state in which they work. After graduating from an accredited school, working in the field for several years, and passing the professional engineering exam, a civil or geotechnical engineer can obtain licensure.