Geotechnical Lead Engineer

About the role

Geotechnical Lead Engineer delivers and reviews geotechnical investigations, site classifications, analysis and reporting across CVST's residential, commercial, civil, water and infrastructure projects. Working under the direction of the Operations Manager, the role manages assigned projects, interprets field and laboratory information, prepares practical geotechnical recommendations and provides technical guidance to the broader team. The position reviews and, where appropriately registered and authorised, signs engineering work within the holder's demonstrated area of competence and delegated authority. The role supports consistent technical delivery, responsive client service and the ongoing improvement of CVST's investigation and reporting processes.

Key responsibilities

• Plan and manage assigned geotechnical investigations, including desktop reviews, borehole and test-pit programs, in-situ testing and laboratory schedules.
• Interpret field and laboratory data to develop appropriate ground models and geotechnical parameters in accordance with relevant standards.
• Provide project-specific direction to drilling and field staff on investigation methods, logging, sampling and groundwater observations.
• Identify investigation limitations, unusual ground conditions and matters requiring escalation or specialist input.
• Prepare site classifications and footing and slab recommendations in accordance with AS 2870.
• Undertake geotechnical assessments and calculations for foundations, pavements, earthworks and other project requirements within demonstrated competence.
• Develop practical recommendations based on the project scope, investigation findings and available field and laboratory data.
• Review geotechnical reports and recommendations prepared by graduate and developing engineers.
• Prepare and review clear, technically sound geotechnical reports, recommendations and specifications for assigned projects.
• Manage the scope, program, budget and technical delivery of assigned projects.

About you

• Bachelor degree in Civil or Geotechnical Engineering, Engineering Geology or a closely related discipline.
• Typically 7-10 years' relevant geotechnical consulting experience, with demonstrated capability in investigation, interpretation and technical reporting.
• Sound working knowledge of AS 1726 and AS 2870 and familiarity with other standards relevant to the work undertaken.
• Demonstrated ability to plan and coordinate geotechnical field investigations.
• Experience preparing and reviewing geotechnical or site classification reports.
• Ability to undertake geotechnical assessments and calculations within demonstrated competence.
• Strong technical writing, problem-solving and client communication skills.
• Ability to provide practical guidance and constructive technical feedback to graduate and field staff.
• Current driver's licence and willingness to undertake regional travel and occasional overnight stays.
• Eligibility for registration as a Professional Engineer in Victoria where registration is required for the engineering services undertaken, or willingness and ability to obtain registration within an agreed period.

About us

Central Victorian Soil Testing (CVST) is a locally owned Bendigo-based geotechnical engineering business. Operating since 2013, we deliver site classifications, geotechnical investigations, in-situ and NATA-accredited laboratory testing across commercial, residential, civil, water and infrastructure projects throughout Victoria and beyond. Our Business Management System is certified to ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and ISO 45001, and our Strathdale laboratory is NATA accredited to ISO/IEC 17025. We pride ourselves on operating transparently, working safely, and collaborating with our clients to deliver quality geotechnical outcomes.