Geotechnical engineer (integrated degree)
Level 7 · Degree (Master’s)Engineering and manufacturing 2.5 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
The Geotechnical Engineer integrated degree apprenticeship at Level 7 trains you to assess the behaviour of soils and rocks to design safe foundations, slopes, tunnels, and earthworks for major infrastructure projects. You will analyse ground investigation data, carry out calculations, and advise engineers and clients on ground risk. Completion leads to a master's-level degree and puts you on the path to Chartered Engineer status with bodies such as the Geological Society or ICE.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Soil and rock mechanics - strength, stiffness, and permeability
Ground investigation planning, specification, and interpretation
Foundation, retaining wall, and slope design principles
Numerical modelling of ground-structure interaction
Risk assessment and management for ground hazards
Eurocode and British Standards for geotechnical design
Technical report writing and professional engineering ethics
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Review and interpret ground investigation borehole logs
Carry out geotechnical calculations and design checks
Use software to model soil and groundwater behaviour
Write geotechnical reports and risk assessments
Attend site visits to observe ground conditions
Liaise with structural and civil engineers on design
Present findings to clients and project stakeholders
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 7 (Degree (Master’s)) - roughly Master’s-degree level. Usually needs a relevant degree or Level 6 qualification, or significant experience.
What’s next: Leads into senior and chartered professional roles.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
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What it’s really like
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