Geotechnical Engineer

About McElhanney

Based in Western Canada for over 110 years, McElhanney offers innovative and practical engineering, surveying, mapping, planning, landscape architecture, and environmental services. As a 100% employee‑owned and operated firm, with over 1,400 staff members in 31 locations, we are proud to offer qualified staff share‑holding options. We work in teams to build strong connections with our staff, clients, and local communities. Our employees enjoy varied projects, high autonomy, opportunities for career development, an excellent total compensation and benefits package, and collaboration with great professionals.

The Opportunity

McElhanney is seeking an experienced Geotechnical Engineer to join our team in Nanaimo, BC. Other Vancouver Island locations will be considered for the right individual. This role is not a team‑lead; if people leadership is your desired pathway, please express this in your cover letter.

Live, Work and Play in Nanaimo

Nestled on the eastern shores of Vancouver Island, Nanaimo offers a perfect balance of small‑city charm and breathtaking natural beauty. With a stunning waterfront, scenic hiking trails, abundant parks, and a vibrant arts scene, the city provides a warm, welcoming atmosphere with mild coastal weather and easy access to islands, beaches, and forests.

What You’ll Do

• Deliver geotechnical solutions for civil infrastructure projects, including linear infrastructure (roads, rail, and underground utilities), water & wastewater systems, slope stability, buildings and marine structural work.
• Lead geotechnical investigations and studies, with interpretation and documentation of results; this role is primarily office‑based except for complex projects or mentoring duties.
• Prepare fee estimates and proposals for geotechnical assignments.
• Contribute to business development (internal and external) and client management.
• Manage geotechnical projects and task schedules and budgets efficiently and effectively.
• Provide oversight, guidance, direction and mentoring of junior technical staff, at a level consistent with your experience.
• Grow technical expertise with a mindset of supporting the existing and future McElhanney business and Geotechnical team.

What You’ll Bring

• University degree in Geotechnical/Geological Engineering or Civil Engineering with a geotechnical emphasis.
• A minimum of 10 to 20 years of progressive experience in relevant geotechnical fields.
• Strong fundamental knowledge of geotechnical design principles for civil infrastructure projects.
• Candidates must possess a Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) registration in British Columbia (or be eligible).
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a demonstrated ability to build strong client and team relationships.
• Project management skills, including budgeting, financial oversight, and schedule management.
• Business development capabilities, including identifying and securing new work, building client relationships, and mentoring junior staff.

What Can We Offer You?

The salary range for this position is $100,000 to $150,000 per annum. McElhanney offers fair compensation that is commensurate with the individual’s education, experience, skills, and professional qualifications. The posted base salary / wage range is representative of the required level of qualifications and experience for the position as noted in the job posting. The salary offered will be based on the experience and qualifications of the successful candidate.

• Work‑Life Harmony: Balance your personal and professional commitments. Flexible hours to fit your lifestyle.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Maternity and parental leave top‑up program, health and dental coverage, RRSP matching, and Employee & Family Assistance Program.
• Safe & Inclusive Workplace: A culture of respect and inclusion for all.
• Compensation: Attractive total compensation package including a generous bonus plan and share ownership potential.
• Professional Development: Reimbursement for dues, educational assistance, mentorship program, workshops, and committee involvement.
• Career Progression: Support and mentorship to shape a career path that fits your goals.
• Relocation Support: Financial assistance if applicable.

This role is designated as a safety‑sensitive position.

Our Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

At McElhanney, our unwavering commitment lies in cultivating a culture that aligns with our core values and fosters diversity, equity, and inclusion. We celebrate the collective achievements of a team rich in expertise, experiences, and perspectives, and welcome applications from individuals of diverse ethnicities, religions, backgrounds, genders, sexual orientations, gender identities, aboriginal statuses, various age groups, and those with disabilities. Requests for accommodations can be made at any stage of the selection process. If this job description resonates with you, we encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet all of the requirements outlined. We’re interested in getting to know you and exploring the unique contributions you can bring to McElhanney.

If this is the opportunity for you, apply now or visit to learn more. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

To learn more about our recognition as Canada's Top 100 Employers (2025), visit Top Employer: McElhanney Ltd. (canadastop100.com).

Visit us on Glassdoor to learn more about our employee experience.

Our Purpose

Amaze our clients. Care for our communities. Empower our people.

McElhanney is aware of activities where individuals have received fraudulent job offers. Please be advised that McElhanney will not ask applicants for any form of monetary exchange at any point in the recruitment process. To learn more visit The disclosure of your information in accordance with this Policy and applicable law, including to third‑party service providers, may result in your personal information being transferred outside of Canada, including to the United States. Such transferred personal information may be subject to the laws of these other countries and the laws of other countries regarding the collection, use, and disclosure of personal information may be different from the laws of Canada.