Geotechnical Engineering Associate

Roles and responsibilities

Support the project delivery teams in the development of geotechnical engineering solutions for projects within the ports & maritime programme.

Responsibilities

• Provide geotechnical engineering solutions that are safe and sustainable, cost effective, fit for purpose, commercially satisfying and innovative ensuring to be aligned with the Group’s governance and strategic goals.
• Analyze data and prepare technical reports and documents for both internal and external stakeholders.
• Develop the technical requirements for ports and maritime engineering studies, construction and performance specifications, design standards and other technical documents as required.
• Develop initial preconceptual engineering schemes for potential future projects.
• Maintain a positive and collaborative relationship between project teams, supply chain and other stakeholders for the betterment of the AD Ports group.
• Identify future trends in the field of geotechnical engineering and propose improvements and enhancements to existing specifications, standards, methods, and solutions.
• Lead the development and continuous improvement of departmental standards and procedures.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Geotechnical Engineering or a related field. Master's degree is a plus
• Excellent English. Arabic is an added advantage
• A minimum of 6-8 years of experience in a similar role
• Experience in geotechnical engineering especially within a port, maritime or infrastructure environment.
• Preferably worked in both construction and consultancy organisations.
• Strong problem solving and critical thinking skills to identify and address complex challenges and opportunities and make data-driven decisions.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with individuals at all levels of the organization.

Desired candidate profile

1. Technical Expertise

• Subsurface Analysis: Proficiency in conducting site investigations, including drilling, sampling, and in-situ testing.
• Soil Mechanics: Deep understanding of soil behavior under various conditions, such as loading and environmental changes.
• Rock Mechanics: Knowledge of rock properties and their impact on structural stability and excavation processes.
• Foundation Engineering: Expertise in designing shallow and deep foundations, including piles and mat foundations.

2. Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills

• Geotechnical Modeling: Using advanced software to simulate soil-structure interaction and predict behavior under load.
• Risk Assessment: Identifying geotechnical hazards, such as slope instability, liquefaction, or subsidence, and developing mitigation strategies.
• Critical Thinking: Applying engineering judgment to solve complex geotechnical challenges in diverse environments.

3. Project Management

• Planning and Coordination: Leading geotechnical investigations and integrating findings into project designs.
• Budget Management: Estimating and managing costs for geotechnical studies and related activities.
• Team Leadership: Guiding junior engineers and technicians in geotechnical analyses and reporting.

4. Communication and Reporting

• Technical Reports: Preparing detailed geotechnical reports with clear findings and recommendations.
• Client Interaction: Explaining geotechnical issues and solutions to stakeholders, including non-technical audiences.
• Collaboration: Working with multidisciplinary teams, including structural, civil, and environmental engineers.

5. Regulatory and Environmental Awareness

• Compliance: Ensuring projects meet local, national, and international geotechnical standards and codes.
• Sustainability: Incorporating environmentally friendly practices into geotechnical designs.
• Health and Safety: Implementing safety protocols during field investigations and construction activities.