Assistant Engineer - Geotechnical - job 2 of 2

As an Assistant Engineer - Geotechnical at Olsson, you will be engaged in a variety of responsibilities that include conducting geotechnical analysis, designing shallow and deep foundations, and preparing geotechnical reports. You’ll work collaboratively within a larger design team and assist in project scheduling. Moreover, you will also travel to project sites to observe earth conditions and provide oversight during investigations, ensuring high-quality project delivery.

To apply for the Assistant Engineer - Geotechnical position at Olsson, you must have a Bachelor’s degree in Civil or Geotechnical Engineering. Additionally, obtaining an Engineer Intern (EI) or Engineering in Training (EIT) certificate is required. Strong technical skills in geotechnical analysis, along with excellent communication abilities and a team-oriented mindset, are crucial for success in this role.

The Assistant Engineer - Geotechnical at Olsson needs to have a solid foundation in technical skills related to geotechnical analysis and design. This includes performing calculations for foundation design, understanding soil mechanics, and being proficient with software used for data analysis and report preparation. Additionally, familiarity with drawing tools is beneficial for creating design documents.

Olsson prides itself on having a team-based, purpose-driven culture where collaboration and continuous learning are encouraged. As an Assistant Engineer - Geotechnical, you will work in an environment that values innovative ideas, and meaningful contributions, and provides opportunities for growth. Employee ownership and flexible work arrangements further enhance a healthy work-life balance.

As an Assistant Engineer - Geotechnical at Olsson, you will enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes healthcare, paid time off, and participation in an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) after your first year. Additionally, Olsson offers performance bonuses, an excellent 401(k) match, wellness programs, and the possibility of flexible work arrangements, making it a rewarding place to grow your career.

When answering this question, provide specific examples of past projects where you performed geotechnical analysis. Discuss the methodologies you used, the challenges you faced, and how your findings contributed to successful project outcomes, highlighting your technical skills and collaborative approach.

Tailor your response by mentioning specific tools you’ve used, such as geotechnical analysis software or design programs. Discuss how you've utilized them in past projects and how they contributed to more efficient or effective engineering solutions, emphasizing your technical competence.

Share your approach to time management and prioritization, including specific techniques such as creating task lists, using project management software, or setting deadlines. Provide a brief example illustrating how you successfully managed multiple projects without compromising quality.

Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your response. Describe the project, your specific role, collaboration dynamics, and the successful outcome as a result of teamwork, showcasing your communication skills and ability to work with diverse professionals.

In your response, emphasize attention to detail and the importance of accurately documenting field conditions. Discuss the significance of effective communication with the team and ensuring safety protocols are followed while observing site conditions, showcasing your conscientious approach to fieldwork.

Mention specific resources such as industry journals, professional associations, or conferences you engage with to stay informed. Highlight how continuous education and networking contribute to your professional growth and your ability to bring innovative ideas to projects.

Discuss specific communication strategies you employ, such as regular check-ins, using project management tools, or maintaining open lines of communication. Provide an example of how these strategies led to improved collaboration and project success in a previous role.

Focus on your receptiveness to feedback and how you view it as a learning opportunity. Share an example of a situation where you received constructive criticism, how you responded positively, and what actions you took to improve in response, reinforcing your adaptability and growth mindset.

Share your personal passion for geotechnical engineering, discussing specific aspects that excite you, such as problem-solving, working on challenging projects, or making tangible improvements to communities. This helps convey your enthusiasm and dedication to the field.

To answer this, articulate what specifically attracts you to Olsson, such as the company's commitment to sustainable practices, employee ownership, or collaborative culture. Align your values with those of the company and express your desire to contribute to impactful projects in a meaningful way.