Staff Geotechnical Engineer in Nashville, Tennessee at Athena Engineering and Environmental LLC

Staff Geotechnical Engineer

COMPANY OVERVIEW
Athena Engineering and Environmental, LLC (Athena), headquartered just outside vibrant Nashville, Tennessee, is a growing woman-owned engineering and environmental consulting firm delivering innovative solutions nationwide. Our multidisciplinary expertise includes geotechnical engineering, environmental consulting, ecological services, water resources, land surveying, and Value Engineering.

We proudly serve federal, state, and local government agencies, as well as transportation, energy, industrial, water, and commercial clients. By combining technical excellence with innovation and collaboration, we help our clients solve complex infrastructure challenges and deliver projects that create lasting value.

From major transportation corridors and energy developments to dams, levees, bridges, airfields, and critical public infrastructure, Athena's geotechnical professionals provide the expertise needed to support safe, resilient, and sustainable communities.

LOCATION & TRAVEL
Location: Goodlettsville (Nashville), Tennessee preferred. Hybrid work opportunities may be considered for highly qualified candidates.

Travel: Approximately 50% domestic travel is expected for field investigations, drilling oversight, construction observation, and site visits.

JOB OVERVIEW
Athena is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where employees feel valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives.

We are seeking a motivated Staff Geotechnical Engineer to support geotechnical engineering projects throughout the United States.

This position is ideal for an early-career engineer seeking hands-on experience in geotechnical investigations, engineering analyses, construction support, and technical report preparation while working alongside experienced engineers and project managers.

The successful candidate will participate in field investigations, perform engineering calculations, prepare technical documentation, and contribute to projects supporting transportation, water resources, energy, and infrastructure clients.
PURPOSE
The Staff Geotechnical Engineer supports the planning, investigation, analysis, design, and construction phases of geotechnical engineering projects under the guidance of experienced engineers.

This role provides an excellent opportunity to develop technical expertise while contributing to meaningful infrastructure projects across the country.

MAJOR TASKS
Engineering & Field Support
1. Assist with planning and performing geotechnical investigations.
2. Observe drilling operations, sampling activities, and field testing.
3. Review field logs, laboratory testing, and geotechnical data.
4. Perform engineering analyses for foundations, retaining walls, embankments, pavements, and slopes.
5. Prepare calculations, technical reports, figures, and engineering recommendations.
6. Assist with construction observation and quality assurance activities.
7. Coordinate with laboratories, drillers, contractors, and project teams.
8. Maintain project documentation and field records.
9. Support proposal preparation and technical documentation.
10. Work closely with Project and Senior Engineers while developing technical and professional skills.
11. Collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams.
12. Maintain Athena's commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

SCOPE OF AUTHORITY
1. Perform engineering tasks under the supervision of Project and Senior Engineers.
2. Exercise engineering judgment appropriate to experience.
3. Coordinate assigned technical activities with project teams.
4. Support project schedules and deliverables.
5. Recommend technical solutions for review by senior staff.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
Required Qualifications
• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Geological Engineering, or related engineering discipline.
• Engineer Intern (E.I.) certification or ability to obtain within 12 months.
• 0–4 years of geotechnical engineering experience.
• Strong interest in geotechnical engineering and field investigations.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.
• Willingness to travel to project sites.

Preferred Qualifications
• Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering.
• Internship or co-op experience.
• Experience with laboratory or field testing.
• OSHA 10-Hour Certification.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office, GeoStudio, OpenGround, gINT, or Lpile.

WHY JOIN ATHENA?
Launch Your Career. Build Your Expertise. Make an Impact.

At Athena, you'll gain hands-on experience working alongside experienced engineers on projects that shape communities nationwide.

You'll have the opportunity to:
• Build a strong technical foundation in geotechnical engineering.
• Participate in exciting field investigations across the country.
• Work on transportation, dams, levees, bridges, airports, energy, and infrastructure projects.
• Learn directly from experienced Professional Engineers.
• Develop toward Professional Engineer licensure through mentorship and continuing education.
• Collaborate within a supportive multidisciplinary team.
• Grow your career with a company committed to technical excellence and employee development.

BENEFITS
• Competitive salary
• Performance-based bonus opportunities
• Profit sharing
• 401(k) with company match
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Company-paid life insurance
• Paid time off
• Flexible work schedule
• Professional development assistance
• Continuing education and licensure support
• Retirement plan

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
Athena Engineering and Environmental, LLC is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where every employee is valued and respected.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Ready to help clients maximize value while shaping the future of infrastructure?
Join Athena Engineering and Environmental and become part of a growing team that's committed to technical excellence, innovation, and making a lasting impact. We look forward to learning how your expertise can help drive our continued success.