Geotechnical Engineer Principal to Staff

Job Posting End Date

05-29-2026

Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.

Job Summary

The Prin Geotechnical Engineer is responsible for performing advanced engineering work activities and projects requiring the application of engineering knowledge in a safe, effective, efficient and economic accomplishment of assigned objectives

Job Description

What you’ll do:

We're seeking a Principal Geotechnical Engineer in Roanoke, VA vicinity with eight (8) or more years of experience in geotechnical engineering. Electric utility projects experience is strongly preferred.

Qualified candidates shall possess knowledge of geotechnical engineering principles through education and/or demonstrated project experience related to the following core areas:

• Earthwork, retaining wall, slope stability and landslide mitigation design
• Foundation design (drilled piers, steel grillages, steel caissons, micro piles, helical piles, driven piles, and guy anchors),
• Subsurface investigations and desktop geologic research
• Geotechnical construction

Desired software knowledge/experience:

• SLOPE/W (or equivalent) slope stability software
• FAD Tools, LPILE, SHAFT, GROUP, etc. foundation design software
• Civil 3D

The Principal/Staff Geotechnical Engineer is expected to review and seal foundation and landslide mitigation designs as assigned. Successful candidates will possess the following professional skills:

• Leadership
• High-impact communication
• Positive disposition
• Collaboration
• Planning and organization

What we’re looking for:

Geotechnical Engineer Principal SG9

• Has typically acquired 8 or more years of related engineering experience along with a Bachelor's degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET*;
• Or 6 years of related engineering experience along with a Master's or PhD in engineering from a program accredited by ABET*. 
• Registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) in any U.S. state or Puerto Rico** is preferred for this position unless approval to waive this requirement is given by the organization's EVP.*ABET - Engineering Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.

Acceptable alternative:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering (non-ABET) plus a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a university with an ABET accredited Bachelor's program.

** Confirmation is preferred to ensure the PE obtained in Puerto Rico aligns with NCEES standards.

Geotechnical Engineer Staff SG10

• Has typically acquired 12 or more years of related engineering experience along with a Bachelor's degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET*;
• Or 10 years of related engineering experience along with a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a program accredited by ABET*. 
• Registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) in any U.S. state or Puerto Rico** is preferred for this position unless approval to waive this requirement is given by the organization's EVP.*ABET - Engineering Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.

Acceptable alternative:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering (non-ABET) plus a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a university with an ABET accredited Bachelor's program.** Confirmation is preferred to ensure the PE obtained in Puerto Rico aligns with NCEES standards.

** Confirmation is preferred to ensure the PE obtained in Puerto Rico aligns with NCEES standards.

***VP or above may waive the requirement for a degree from a university with an Non ABET accredited program

In addition

• Travel (~20%) is required for this position and will consist of trips to the field to diagnose geotechnical issues related to electric transmission lines and substations.
• Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 hours per day.
• Some OT may be required, as approved.

Where you’ll work

This role sits on site in Roanoke, Virginia

What you’ll get:

Engineer Principal SG9 ($130,000-$150,000)

Engineer Staff SG10 ($150,000-$170,000)

In addition to competitive compensation, AEP offers a unique comprehensive benefits package that aims to support and enhance the overall well-being of our employees.

Where Putting the Customer First Powers Everything We Do

At AEP, we’re more than just an energy company — we’re a team of dedicated professionals committed to delivering safe, reliable, and innovative energy solutions. Guided by our mission to put the customer first, we strive to