About Careertakes

👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Engineering.

Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.

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Overview & Key Details

• Position type: Full-time
• Location: Pierre, SD (on-site with required travel)
• Salary: $32.85 - $39.96 per hour (hourly range provided by the client)
• Estimated total compensation (entry level, hourly + benefits): approximately $91,332 annually
• Posting/Date posted: 2026-10-12
• Closing date: 2026-10-14
• Pay Grade: E1 - E2

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What You’ll Do

You will support geotechnical engineering activities for transportation projects across the state, providing engineering design input, subsurface investigation, laboratory analysis, and construction support.

• Assist Foundation, Geology, and Soils teams with geologic studies and subsurface data collection
• Perform or support laboratory testing and analysis of soil and rock samples
• Produce design recommendations for foundations, soil embankments, subgrade improvements, and slope stability
• Interpret engineering plans, maps, specifications, and technical reports
• Provide on-site inspections and construction support; statewide travel (including occasional overnight work with drill crews) is required
• Communicate findings clearly in written reports and verbal briefings
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to meet project schedules and standards

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What We're Looking For (Qualifications & Skills)

• Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, Geological Engineering, or a related engineering field (required)
• FE (Fundamentals of Engineering) or PE (Professional Engineer) license, or eligibility to obtain one
• Knowledge of geotechnical engineering principles (soil mechanics, groundwater, etc.)
• Familiarity with geologic conditions and subsurface investigation techniques
• Proficiency with computers and common software (Microsoft Office; other engineering tools a plus)
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects and prioritize tasks
• Attention to detail, organization, and a collaborative, team-oriented mindset

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Compensation & Benefits

• Hourly pay range: $32.85 - $39.96 (dependent on qualifications)
• Typical annual total compensation example (entry level, with benefits): approximately $91,332
• Benefits highlights (as provided by the client):
  • Health insurance options (including a $0 premium plan)
  • Dental, vision, and Health Savings Account options
  • Free basic life insurance
  • Retirement system membership with employer contribution/match (state retirement plan for eligible positions)
  • Paid leave (vacation, sick leave), paid family leave, military leave, and paid holidays
  • Employee assistance and well-being programs
  • Eligibility for meal per diems and longevity pay

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Working Conditions & Travel

• Primarily office-based with a standard eight-hour workday
• Regular travel to project sites for inspections and construction support
• Occasional overnight travel with drill crews to gain hands-on subsurface exploration experience
• This role is designated as on-site (#LI-Onsite)

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Legal & Hiring Notes

• Veterans' preference and other applicable state employment rules may apply as noted by the client
• The client does not sponsor work visas for new or existing employees for this posting. All hires will be required to verify identity and work eligibility and complete Form I-9. E-Verify may be used upon hire.
• Confidential Client is an equal opportunity employer; discrimination or harassment of any kind is prohibited.

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Preferred Personal Attributes

• Growth mindset and continuous learning orientation
• Creative and strategic thinking for geotechnical solutions
• Confident, action-oriented approach to work and problem solving
• Commitment to high ethical and professional standards

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Position Requirements

• Education: Bachelor of Science in Civil or Geological Engineering (or related engineering degree) — required
• Licensure: Possess or be eligible to obtain FE or PE

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Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency

Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.

If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.