Geotechnical Engineer - Entry Level (Hybrid)

The role – what you’ll do

Barr is seeking a geotechnical engineer to join our innovative and collaborative team of 90+ geotechnical engineers and geologists. In this role, you will work on a variety of projects involving traditional geotechnical engineering, with a focus on mine tailings and coal ash storage facility management, supporting the characterization, design, construction, operation, and closure of such facilities.

The ideal candidate for this position is intrinsically motivated and places emphasis on client service. They enjoy working independently and as part of a team, using their technical abilities, organizational skills, and communication strengths to support a variety of projects. They are flexible in working with their project teams and are willing to occasionally modify schedules to meet project deadlines and/or client needs. This person is also relationship-focused, as the role involves serving both internal and external clients.

Your impact – key responsibilities

• Geotechnical analysis, design, and reporting: analyze field and laboratory data. Perform analyses and develop recommendations related to shallow and deep foundations, settlement, bearing capacity, slope stability, seepage, earth-retaining structures, embankments, dams, and other geotechnical infrastructure. Prepare technical reports, project plans and specifications, and cost estimates.
• Field investigations and construction support: provide on-site support for subsurface investigations, in-situ testing, instrumentation installation and monitoring, construction observation, surveying, materials testing, and facility inspections.
• Project management support: assist with planning, coordinating, and executing geotechnical engineering projects. Support project coordination by assisting with project planning, progress tracking, scheduling, and communication with project managers, clients, contractors, and field personnel.
• Professional development: collaborate with experienced geotechnical professionals to develop technical expertise, project management skills, and client relationships.

About the opportunity

• Work location: a hybrid work arrangement may be considered for this position. A hybrid work arrangement refers to splitting time worked between a Barr office and a home office. This position can be based out of Barr's Minneapolis, Hibbing, or Duluth, Minnesota, offices.
• Travel expectation: up to 30 percent domestic fieldwork, with an average of five to 10 days of continuous job site presence.
• Work environment: ability to work in locations that feature rough terrain typical of construction sites with limited accessibility, moving machinery, and other conditions typical of industrial facilities. Candidates must be able to perform job duties with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Physical requirements for the role may include lifting or moving field-testing equipment. Candidates must be able to perform job duties with or without reasonable accommodation.

About you – required core competencies

• Education: bachelor’s degree in geological engineering, geotechnical engineering, or civil engineering with a geotechnical emphasis. Master’s degree in geotechnical engineering preferred.
• Driver’s license: possession of a current, valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for sponsorship by Barr, now or in the future.

Helpful additional experience (not required)

• Experience: 1–3 years of relevant experience
• Software: geotechnical software program experience preferred, including Geostudio, Rocscience, FLAC, PLAXIS, gINT or BoreDM.

Compensation : Anticipated range of $76,000–$87,000 annually. Compensation will vary based on relevant experience, education, skill level, and other compensable factors. Employees in this position may also be eligible for a discretionary cash bonus based on team and individual performance. This position is classified as exempt (salaried) under the Fair Labor Standards Act.

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Benefits - what we offer

We are committed to providing an employee experience that attracts and retains top talent. That's why we offer a competitive package of employee benefits - including some unique offerings not found at other companies. At Barr, we also believe that learning doesn't stop when you get your degree, which is why we provide coaching, mentoring, and support for ongoing educational opportunities to foster professional development at every stage of your career.

• Competitive, affordable insurance plans: Medical, dental, vision, life, disability, accidental death insurance, and flexible spending accounts for medical and dependent care

• Retirement benefits: 401(k) retirement savings plan with company contribution and an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) with company contribution in Barr stock

• Profit distribution: Barr has a "no retained earnings" model and distributes all profit to our employees through our annual bonus distribution plan, ESOP, and dividends to shareholders

• Professional development benefits: Annual time and expense allowances, mentorship program, and many internal training opportunities

• Work/life balance: Paid time off, holidays, overtime for non-exempt/hourly staff, and compensatory time for exempt/salaried staff (time off or pay for extra time worked), paid family leave

• Wellness focus: Ergonomic analysis and equipment, Personal Protective Equipment allowance, wellbeing-focused educational opportunities

Please note that benefits eligibility is determined and may change based on part-time, reduced-time, or full-time status.

About us - why choose Barr

At Barr, you'll join a community of engineers, scientists, and professionals who will help you achieve your ambitions and build a meaningful, rewarding career. You'll serve as a trusted advisor to clients who value Barr's tailored solutions and commitment to exceptional service.

As part of our employee-owned firm, you'll contribute to a culture of commitment and camaraderie where staff can thrive as professionals. We value diverse perspectives and experiences and believe an inclusive workplace is critical to our success.

To learn more about Barr's culture and values, visit:

Open positions at Barr Engineering Co. do not have application deadlines. Barr Engineering Co. is an equal opportunity employer, and all applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.