Geotechnical EngineerGeotechnical engineering is the branch of civil engineering concerned with the engineering behavior of earth materials. This branch of engineering includes investigating existing subsurface conditions and materials; determining their physical/mechanical and chemical properties that are relevant to the project considered. A geotechnical engineer then determines and designs the type of foundations, earthworks, and/or pavement sub grades required for the intended man-made structures to be built.
Geotechnical engineering is also related to coastal and ocean engineering. Coastal engineering can involve the design and construction of wharves, marinas, and jetties. Ocean engineering can involve foundation and anchor systems for offshore structures such as oil platforms. Geotechnical engineers are typically graduates of a four-year civil engineering program and often hold a masters degree. Geotechnical engineers perform geotechnical investigations to obtain information on the physical properties of soil and rock underlying a site to design earthworks and foundations for proposed structures, and for repair of distress to earthworks and structures caused by subsurface conditions.
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