What is the targeted salary range for the Trenchless Engineer position at HDR?

The targeted salary range for the Trenchless Engineer position at HDR is $125,000 - $150,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and geographical location.

Does HDR require a Professional Engineer (PE) license for the Trenchless Engineer role?

Yes, a Professional Engineer (PE or P.Eng) license recognized by the licensing board for the position's location is a requirement for the Trenchless Engineer role at HDR.

What are the primary trenchless technologies this role will involve?

The Trenchless Engineer role will involve assessing and applying trenchless technologies such as Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD), microtunneling, tunneling, and Direct Pipe®.

What is HDR's approach to employee ownership and company culture?

HDR operates with an employee-owned culture, fostering an inclusive environment where all employees are valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their authentic selves and ideas. They emphasize collaboration, organizational trust, and connection to clients and communities.

What kind of travel is expected for the Trenchless Engineer position?

Travel is required for the Trenchless Engineer role, with the frequency and duration dependent on project needs. Extensive travel may be necessary at times to support field-based assignments, including site reconnaissance and oversight of installations.

What software experience is preferred for the Trenchless Engineer role?

Preferred software experience includes AutoCAD Civil 3D. Familiarity with MicroStation, GeoStudio/Ensoft (for slope stability, settlement, seepage, deep foundation response), and Bentley's gINT/OpenGround/LeapFrog (geotechnical data management) is also beneficial.

Can candidates with less than 10 years of experience apply for the Trenchless Engineer position?

While the preferred qualification is a minimum of 10 years of professional experience, it's always advisable to check the specific requirements listed in the job description. Strong candidates with exceptional skills and relevant experience may still be considered.

What are the key responsibilities of the Trenchless Engineer at HDR?

Key responsibilities include supporting trenchless design and field services, performing analyses (hydraulic fracture, inadvertent returns), managing geotechnical investigations and survey coordination, evaluating feasibility of trenchless designs, managing data, and acting as a PE to review and seal deliverables.

Trenchless Engineer

HDR · Nashville, TN

On site
Full-time
$150,000 / year
Nashville, TN

Job highlights

Lead trenchless engineering and design projects.
Perform hydraulic fracture and analysis.
Manage project lifecycle from planning to construction.
Interface with clients and manage projects.
Travel for field assignments and oversight.

About the role

About HDR and Our Culture

At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and novel ideas to work every day. As we foster a culture of inclusion throughout our company and within our communities, we constantly ask ourselves: What is our impact on the world? Watch Our Story: https://www.hdrinc.com/our-story. Each and every role throughout our organization makes a difference in our ability to change the world for the better. Read further to learn how you could help make great things possible not only in your community, but around the world.

Job Summary

HDR is looking for a Trenchless Engineer to join our national Trenchless Services team. This role will provide significant opportunity for professional growth and development. The Trenchless Engineer will report to the Trenchless Services Engineering Lead, having primary responsibilities supporting the execution of design and field services associated with trenchless services: engineering, design and construction applications. The Trenchless Engineer will contribute to the Trenchless Program by utilizing their experience and expertise to support engineering and design practices, including hydraulic fracture and inadvertent returns analyses, front end information collection initiatives, such as geotechnical investigation programs and survey coordination for incorporation into critical engineering and design decisions and constructability evaluations, evaluating feasibility of trenchless design and construction, and making recommendations for mitigation as needed throughout the lifecycle of trenchless projects (planning through construction). Data management, quality control of design and construction data, planning, and risk management for supporting all trenchless initiatives are also included in the primary responsibilities for this role. The Trenchless Engineer will manage the execution of the full Trenchless suite of services for all-inclusive projects or as a component to a larger project that includes Trenchless installations. As a licensed Professional Engineer, they will be expected to review, stamp and seal Trenchless project related deliverables. The Trenchless Engineer will also be expected to interface with clients and take on a project management role on Trenchless projects as assigned. They will travel as-needed to support field-based assignments, with the frequency and duration of travel depending on workload; extensive travel may be required at any given time. Field-based responsibilities will include site reconnaissance and oversight of trenchless pipeline installations. While in the field, the Trenchless Engineer will monitor and report on daily activities, and present field data in a timely manner with a high level of quality. While performing the field-based tasks, the Trenchless Engineer will be required to communicate regularly with all members of the Trenchless Services Team as required for the projects at hand.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities

Perform desktop route selection, and evaluate feasibility for design and construction of trenchless crossings.
Carry out site reconnaissance visits.
Develop a subsurface investigation program for determination of feasibility of construction for various trenchless installation methods.
Evaluate surface and subsurface conditions based on collected data and information to determine feasibility of trenchless construction and preferred construction technique.
Interface with the Team’s various discipline leads and production staff (e.g., geotechnical, CAD, etc.) and communicate frequently to support development of trenchless design deliverables.
Communicate regularly with clients regarding project status and technical discussions related to trenchless construction applications.
Estimate quantities of materials used and disposed of, for trenchless pipeline installations.
Estimate installation loading and stress for trenchless pipeline installations.
Assess the application of trenchless technologies (Horizontal Directional Drilling, microtunneling, tunneling, Direct Pipe®, etc.) and participate in the definition and selection of preferred method(s).
Perform calculations to determine carrier pipe and coating specifications.
Define workspace requirements for applicable construction equipment at trenchless crossing locations.
Prepare and/or review pertinent project documentation including: project design/construction specifications, bid packages, drawings, design reports, engineering assessments, and data sets.
Build knowledge and use available software models for trenchless pipeline design.
Interface with project team members outside of the Trenchless Team and other company functions throughout project execution on multidisciplinary projects.
Develop permit application documents and drawings.
Be aware of and understand the applicable industry standards and governing codes relevant to the various market sectors for which the Trenchless Team performs work (e.g., Oil and Gas, Water/Wastewater, Power, etc.).
Ensure that documents, calculations, reports are developed in compliance with the governing project legislation and standardization.
Prepare field engineering and as-built documents.
Concur in the definition/updating of department standards and procedures as well as ensure adequate feedback/lessons learned from projects.
Focus on successful project execution, applying HDR’s PMO processes and in alignment with client project delivery goals.
Establish and execute workflow delivery that will be applied for all projects including Trenchless engineering, design, subcontracted services, and construction applications.
Procure, manage, and coordinate with subconsultants providing various services to Trenchless projects.
Perform construction oversight and/or observation in the field, monitoring and reporting on daily construction activities, identifying problematic conditions and providing recommendations.

Preferred Qualifications

Minimum 10 years of professional experience, including experience in consulting/engineering, and preferably with Horizontal Directional Drilling, microtunneling, and/or Direct Pipe®.
Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification.
Experience in AutoCAD Civil 3D.
Experience in remote work environment.
Experience in design and knowledge in trenchless construction methods.
Team oriented with strong desire to be accountable and reliable for contributions.
Strong writing and computer skills, including proven experience in Microsoft Word and Excel.
Ability to handle multiple assignments, managing time and prioritizing tasks appropriately and independently to meet deadlines.
Self-motivated and ability to work autonomously, while remaining in frequent communication with the rest of the team who are located in other offices around the country.
Accountability for time and work ethic.
Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
Travel is required; frequency and duration will be dependent on project needs and may be extensive at times.
This position is subject to a pre-employment drug test.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's degree
Requires professional engineering license recognized by the licensing board for the location of the position offered. Example: Professional Engineer (PE or P.Eng) license.
Previous experience with Microsoft Office applications, MicroStation or other software as appropriate
Experience with GeoStudio/Ensoft slope stability, settlement, seepage and deep foundation response software, as appropriate
Experience with Bentley suite of geotechnical data management and visualization software (gINT/OpenGround/LeapFrog)
An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee-owned culture is a must

What We Believe

HDR is our company. Together, we build on each other's life experiences and perspectives to make great things possible every day. This shapes our collaborative culture, encourages organizational trust and connects us closer to the clients and communities we serve.

Our Commitment

As employee owners, we all have a role in creating an inclusive environment where each of us is welcomed, valued, respected and empowered to bring our authentic selves to work every day. Our eight Employee Network Groups (Asian Pacific, Black, Hispanic/Latino(a), LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Veterans, Women, Young Professionals) help create a sense of belonging and foster a supportive environment where everyone is empowered to engage and contribute. Each group has an executive sponsor and is open to all employees. We provide a comprehensive benefits package that promotes employee ownership, employee health, performance, and success, which includes medical, dental, vision, short and long-term disability, life insurance, an employee assistance program, paid time away, parental leave, paid holidays, a retirement savings plan with employer match, employee referral bonus and tuition reimbursement. The expected compensation range for this position depends upon skills, experience, education and geographical location. (Stated benefits are for full-time regular positions. Temporary and part-time roles eligible for limited benefits.) The targeted salary range for this position (based on experience and location) is $125,000 - $150,000. Primary Location: United States-Georgia-Atlanta Other Locations: United States-Texas-Round Rock, United States-North Carolina-Charlotte, United States-Pennsylvania-Bethlehem, United States-Oregon-Salem, United States-Maryland-Baltimore, United States-Montana-Missoula, United States-Texas-Houston, United States-California-Irvine, United States-Wisconsin-Madison, United States-New York-Buffalo, United States-Washington-Tacoma, United States-Nevada-Reno, United States-Colorado-Fort Collins, United States-California-Folsom, United States-Oregon-Portland, United States-Montana-Bozeman, United States-Colorado-Durango, United States-Washington-Seattle, United States-Nevada-Las Vegas, United States-Montana-Billings, United States-Texas-Dallas, United States-Montana-Helena, United States-Washington-Spokane, United States-Virginia-Arlington, United States-Washington-Pasco, United States-Texas-Austin, United States-California-Claremont, United States-Massachusetts-Boston, United States-Colorado-Denver, United States-Oregon-Bend, United States-Missouri-St Louis, United States-Arizona-Tucson, United States-Arkansas-Little Rock, United States-Pennsylvania-Mechanicsburg, United States-Washington-Olympia, United States-Washington-Vancouver, United States-Colorado-Colorado Springs, United States-Wisconsin-Milwaukee, United States-Hawaii-Honolulu, United States-Maryland-Fulton, United States-Arizona-Phoenix, United States-Kentucky-Louisville, United States-South Carolina-Greenville, United States-Illinois-Rosemont, United States-California-Walnut Creek, United States-Tennessee-Memphis, United States-Montana-Kalispell, United States-Virginia-Richmond, United States-Washington-Gig Harbor, United States-Rhode Island-Providence, United States-Ohio-Cleveland, United States-Florida-Tampa, United States-Florida-West Palm Beach, United States-Ohio-Columbus, United States-Tennessee-Chattanooga, United States-Kentucky-Lexington, United States-Kansas-Olathe, United States-Georgia-Pooler, United States-Washington-Bellevue, United States-Missouri-Kansas City, United States-North Carolina-Wilmington, United States-Tennessee-Nashville, United States-California-San Jose, United States-New Jersey-Newark, United States-Florida-Pensacola, United States-New Mexico-Albuquerque, United States-New York-White Plains, United States-Minnesota-St. Paul, United States-California-San Francisco, United States-South Carolina-Charleston, United States-Virginia-Roanoke, United States-South Carolina-Columbia, United States-Virginia-Vienna, United States-Florida-Orlando, United States-Minnesota-Minneapolis, United States-Pennsylvania-Pittsburgh, United States-New York-Syracuse, United States-California-San Diego, United States-Virginia-Norfolk, United States-Pennsylvania-Philadelphia, United States-Virginia-Glen Allen, United States-California-Riverside, United States-Nebraska-Lincoln, United States-Montana-Butte, United States-Florida-Miami, United States-Nebraska-Omaha, United States-New Jersey-Pennington, United States-California-Sacramento, United States-Connecticut-Rocky Hill, United States-New York-New York, United States-Michigan-Ann Arbor, United States-North Carolina-Winston-Salem, United States-Virginia-Alexandria, United States-Michigan-Detroit, United States-North Dakota-Bismarck, United States-Maine-Portland, United States-California-Oakland, United States-North Dakota-Fargo, United States-New Jersey-Woodcliff Lake, United States-Florida-Jacksonville, United States-Illinois-Chicago, United States-California-Los Angeles, United States-Idaho-Boise, United States-North Carolina-Raleigh, United States-Texas-San Antonio, United States-West Virginia-Charleston, United States-Connecticut-Hartford. Industry: Industrial Schedule: Full-time Employee Status: Regular Business Class: Industrial Services Job Posting: Sep 18, 2025. At HDR, we are committed to the principles of employment equity. We are an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer (https://www.hdrinc.com/equal-employment-opportunity-employer). We consider all qualified applicants, regardless of criminal histories, arrest and conviction records.

Key skills/competency

Trenchless Engineering, Engineering Design, Hydraulic Fracture Analysis, Geotechnical Investigation, Survey Coordination, Trenchless Technologies, Project Management, Client Interface, Field Services, Professional Engineer.

Skills & topics

Trenchless Engineer
Trenchless Services
Engineering
Design
Project Management
Geotechnical Engineering
Horizontal Directional Drilling
Microtunneling
Professional Engineer
Construction

How to get hired

Tailor your resume: Highlight your PE license, 10+ years of trenchless engineering experience, and specific knowledge of HDD, microtunneling, or Direct Pipe®.
Showcase software proficiency: Emphasize your experience with AutoCAD Civil 3D, GeoStudio/Ensoft, and Bentley geotechnical software.
Demonstrate project management skills: Detail your experience managing projects, interfacing with clients, and leading teams.
Express cultural fit: Articulate your understanding of HDR's employee-owned culture and commitment to inclusion.
Prepare for travel discussions: Be ready to discuss your flexibility and experience with extensive travel for field assignments.

Technical preparation

Master trenchless technologies like HDD, microtunneling.,Become proficient in AutoCAD Civil 3D.,Study GeoStudio/Ensoft for geotechnical analysis.,Understand industry standards and governing codes.

Behavioral questions

Describe a challenging trenchless project you managed.,How do you handle client communication and expectations?,How do you ensure quality in design and construction data?,How do you manage multiple assignments and deadlines?

Frequently asked questions

What is the targeted salary range for the Trenchless Engineer position at HDR?: The targeted salary range for the Trenchless Engineer position at HDR is $125,000 - $150,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and geographical location.
Does HDR require a Professional Engineer (PE) license for the Trenchless Engineer role?: Yes, a Professional Engineer (PE or P.Eng) license recognized by the licensing board for the position's location is a requirement for the Trenchless Engineer role at HDR.
What are the primary trenchless technologies this role will involve?: The Trenchless Engineer role will involve assessing and applying trenchless technologies such as Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD), microtunneling, tunneling, and Direct Pipe®.
What is HDR's approach to employee ownership and company culture?: HDR operates with an employee-owned culture, fostering an inclusive environment where all employees are valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their authentic selves and ideas. They emphasize collaboration, organizational trust, and connection to clients and communities.
What kind of travel is expected for the Trenchless Engineer position?: Travel is required for the Trenchless Engineer role, with the frequency and duration dependent on project needs. Extensive travel may be necessary at times to support field-based assignments, including site reconnaissance and oversight of installations.
What software experience is preferred for the Trenchless Engineer role?: Preferred software experience includes AutoCAD Civil 3D. Familiarity with MicroStation, GeoStudio/Ensoft (for slope stability, settlement, seepage, deep foundation response), and Bentley's gINT/OpenGround/LeapFrog (geotechnical data management) is also beneficial.
Can candidates with less than 10 years of experience apply for the Trenchless Engineer position?: While the preferred qualification is a minimum of 10 years of professional experience, it's always advisable to check the specific requirements listed in the job description. Strong candidates with exceptional skills and relevant experience may still be considered.
What are the key responsibilities of the Trenchless Engineer at HDR?: Key responsibilities include supporting trenchless design and field services, performing analyses (hydraulic fracture, inadvertent returns), managing geotechnical investigations and survey coordination, evaluating feasibility of trenchless designs, managing data, and acting as a PE to review and seal deliverables.

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