Geotechnician

What does a geotechnical engineer do? – tasks and work environment

A geotechnical engineer works with investigating and analyzing ground properties for construction projects, infrastructure, or mining. Tasks include sampling soil and rock, conducting laboratory analyses, interpreting results, and preparing technical reports. The geotechnical engineer often assists in foundation planning, road construction, and tunneling, working closely with other engineers and project managers. The work environment is varied and can involve both fieldwork at construction sites and analytical office work, where advanced software is used for simulation and calculation.

Salary development over time

The salary for a geotechnical engineer has increased steadily in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 51,100 SEK per month, which increased to 53 100 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has risen further to 54 800 SEK. The total increase over this three-year period amounts to approximately 7.2%, which is slightly higher than the general wage growth for engineering professions. The trend is explained by continued high demand for technical expertise in construction and infrastructure, as well as increased requirements for advanced ground analysis in major infrastructure projects. Technological development and the need for sustainable building solutions have also contributed to strengthening the profession's value in the labor market.

Geotechnical engineer salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 54 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 43,300 SEK/month (men), 44,700 SEK/month (women)
• Highest salary: 56,400 SEK/month (men), 52,700 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly wage: 330 SEK
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 95% of men's salary (men 55 600 SEK, women 52,700 SEK)
• Regional differences: No detailed statistics available, but salary levels may vary depending on project location and demand for expertise.

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a geotechnical engineer typically involves a master's degree in engineering with specialization in transportation and water engineering, civil engineering, or geotechnics. The education includes both theoretical and practical components, with field studies and laboratory work as important parts. To work as a geotechnical engineer, specialized courses in soil mechanics, geology, and foundation engineering are often required, sometimes supplemented with certifications or workplace internships.

• Formal degree: Master's in engineering (5 years) or bachelor's in engineering (3 years) in a relevant field
• Specialized courses: Geotechnics, soil and foundation engineering, geology
• Internships: Workplace internships or trainee programs are advantageous
• Certifications: Opportunities for further training and certificates in sampling and laboratory work
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for university studies, often specific requirements in mathematics and physics

Common benefits and compensation

Geotechnical engineers often have access to benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowances, and extra vacation days. Per diems and travel allowances may be provided during fieldwork, and many employers also offer skills development and flexible working hours. It is common to have collective agreement-based conditions that include insurance and the possibility of bonuses or performance-based compensation.

Competition and challenges

Competition for positions as a geotechnical engineer is considered moderate but can vary depending on region and economic climate within the construction and infrastructure industry. The shortage of specialized expertise in geotechnics means demand is often high, especially for large infrastructure projects. At the same time, high demands are placed on technical precision, documentation, and collaboration skills. A challenge is to stay updated on new methods and digital tools, as well as working safely during field sampling. The market is also influenced by changes in societal development and climate-related factors that require innovative solutions.

Tips for those aspiring to become a geotechnical engineer

To succeed as a geotechnical engineer, it is good to be analytical and meticulous, as the work involves interpreting complex ground data and drawing conclusions that affect entire construction projects. Good collaboration skills are important since the role often involves close contact with colleagues from various technical fields. It is also advantageous to be flexible and solution-oriented, especially when facing unforeseen challenges in the field. An interest in technology and science facilitates learning new digital tools and methods. Engagement in sustainability and safety is valuable, as modern projects often demand high environmental considerations and risk management. Applying for internships or summer jobs early provides valuable experience and networking opportunities. Finally, it is important to be communicative, as results need to be clearly conveyed to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Key facts about Geotechnical Engineers

• Education level: Master's or bachelor's degree (3–5 years)
• Work environment: Combination of fieldwork and office work
• Typical work form: Project-based in multidisciplinary teams
• Demand: 564 job openings within the profession (May 2024)
• Special skills: Ground analysis, laboratory work, report writing

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, there are opportunities to advance to senior geotechnical engineer, project manager, or specialist in areas such as foundation technology or environmental geotechnics. It is also common for experienced geotechnical engineers to move into consultancy work or leadership roles within construction companies. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate ongoing demand for geotechnical expertise, although no precise assessment is made due to limited statistical data. The trend in engineering professions in general is positive, with many vacancies and increased requirements for technical specialization. Further education or research opportunities are also available, especially for those wishing to deepen their knowledge in advanced ground technology or environmental issues.

Common questions about Geotechnical Engineers

• What does a geotechnical engineer earn?
  - The average salary for a geotechnical engineer is 54 800 SEK per month in 2024.
• What is required to become a geotechnical engineer?
  - A master's degree in engineering or a university degree in civil engineering, transportation, water engineering, or geotechnics is most common.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 95% of what men do within the profession.
• What is the job market like for geotechnical engineers?
  - There is high demand for the profession, with 564 job openings in spring 2024.
• What tasks does a geotechnical engineer perform?
  - Tasks include soil and rock sampling, laboratory analyses, technical reporting, and advising in construction projects.
• What are common benefits in the profession?
  - Benefits include occupational pension, wellness allowances, skills development, and sometimes per diems for fieldwork.