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Geotechnical Engineering is the branch of Civil Engineering specializing in evaluation of subsurface conditions and the design of structures to fit the geologic conditions at a property. For flat sites with good soils and no geologic hazards, most Civil Engineers can evaluate the subsurface conditions and provide foundation recommendations. However, not all sites are flat, or have good soils or are free of geologic hazards. In recognition that evaluation of subsurface conditions and design for geologic conditions requires special expertise, the State of California has set requirements for the use of the title Geotechnical Engineer. Geotechnical Engineers are sometimes known as Foundation or Soil Engineers and the field of Geotechnical Engineering is also called Soil Mechanics and Foundation Engineering.

Civil Engineers must be licensed by the state in which they practice and Geotechnical Engineers must be licensed Civil Engineers who have demonstrated experience and expertise in Geotechnical Engineering.  Registration of Geotechnical Engineers is required by the State of California and regulated by the Department of Consumer Affairs.

After graduating from the university with a degree in Civil Engineering, engineers must work for at least 2 years in the field of Civil Engineering before being permitted to take the exam for registration and licensure as a Civil Engineer.  Passing the exam requires knowledge of structural design, soil mechanics, surveying, hydrology, and other aspects of Civil Engineering.  After practicing as a Registered Civil Engineer with a firm specializing in Geotechnical Engineering for at least 4 years, the registered Civil Engineer may then seek permission to take the exam for registration as a Geotechnical Engineer.  Passing of the Geotechnical Engineering exam requires a thorough knowledge of soil mechanics, foundation design, liquefaction, and slope stability evaluation.

Therefore, as you can see, a Geotechnical Engineer has to have at least 10 years of engineering education and experience making them the ideal professionals to perform your next property evaluation.

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