Geotechnical engineering is an area that deals with the properties of soil when it comes to construction. This field is very much about focusing on the strength and deformation of properties of soil such as clay and sand. Technicians will use their knowledge to study hydrogeology, geology and geophysics too. It is a specialisation in the field of civil engineering. Similar to engineering geology, geotechnical engineering focuses on both soil and rock mechanics.

Geotechnical engineering is mainly used for planning and designing road constructions as well as foundations for buildings. Analysis for slopes, retaining structures, embankments, tunnels, levees and landfills are also other areas that are focused on as these are systems that are supported by soil and rock. These engineers play a huge role from the start of construction and project work. Their responsibilities include designing, supplying speciality equipment, managing, constructing and a whole lot more.

Research and development in this field includes improvement of equipment and methods when it comes to ground investigation and testing samples for labs. They undergo heavy analysis to understand how the ground behaves and what kind of loads it can withstand for construction. If support is needed for the ground, they also deal with this. Measurements as well as monitoring the ground itself during the construction phase are also the responsibility of geotechnical engineers.

The education needed for this profession usually requires a masters in civil engineering as it is a sector of this field of work. Structural engineering is closely related and compliments geotechnical engineering. Courses are offered at several universities and colleges.

This field plays one of the biggest roles when it comes to the construction of majorly used equipment and buildings in the world. From buildings, bridges and dams to platforms, wind turbines and pipelines, geotechnical engineers undergo the research and work required in order for these to be correctly constructed on land.

Kathleen M. Dyson