Senior Geotechnical Design Engineer (Railway)

SYSTRA is one of the world’s leading engineering and consultancy groups specialising in public transport and sustainable mobility. With over 10,300 employees, SYSTRA’s mission is to design safe and sustainable transport solutions to bring people together, develop social inclusion and facilitate access to employment, education and leisure throughout the world.

For 65 years, the Group has been working alongside cities and regions to contribute to their development by creating, improving and modernising their infrastructure and transport systems, throughout the life cycle of their projects. SYSTRA is involved from the earliest stages of design through to the testing, deployment and maintenance phases. The company provides all its services in over 80 countries worldwide and generates 74% of its turnover internationally. With its new services, SYSTRA supports its clients and partners in their digital, ecological and energy transition, in order to invent the mobility of tomorrow.

Context

We are seeking an experienced Senior Geotechnical Engineer with a strong background in design for major railway projects. The ideal candidate will possess at least 15 years of progressive experience in geotechnical engineering, have in-depth knowledge of ground investigation, soil and rock mechanics, and hold a track record of delivering successful rail or infrastructure projects in the Middle East, with preference given to experience within Saudi Arabia.

Missions/Main Duties

• Lead the geotechnical design for large-scale railway infrastructure projects, ensuring design meets international standards and local regulatory requirements.
• Conduct and supervise site investigations, soil and rock testing, and laboratory analysis.
• Interpret geotechnical data and prepare clear, comprehensive technical reports and design documents.
• Oversee and review the work of junior engineers and external consultants.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary design teams including structural, civil, and environmental engineers.
• Provide technical leadership during all project phases, from feasibility to detailed design and construction.
• Liaise with clients, contractors, and local authorities, presenting findings and recommendations.
• Ensure all work complies with health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Provide geotechnical input for construction methodologies, ground risk assessments, and value engineering.
• Stay updated with advances in geotechnical engineering and relevant railway standards, especially those applicable in the Saudi and broader Middle East context.

Profile/Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil or Geotechnical Engineering (Master’s degree preferred).
• Minimum 15 years of relevant experience, with at least 5 years on railway or major infrastructure projects.
• Extensive hands-on design experience, including deep foundations, embankments, retaining structures, ground improvement, and tunneling.
• Proven track record of managing large, complex geotechnical design packages.
• Direct experience on Middle East projects essential; Saudi Arabia experience highly advantageous.
• Working knowledge of local geotechnical standards, railway codes, and environmental regulations.
• Proficiency in geotechnical analysis and design software (e.g., PLAXIS, GeoStudio, gINT, Slope/W).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Arabic language skills are a plus.
• Chartered Engineer (CEng, PE, or equivalent) status preferred
• Strong leadership and client-facing abilities.
• Adaptability to multicultural, multidisciplinary environments.
• Demonstrated experience in delivering projects within fast-paced, schedule-driven contexts.

Systra is an equal opportunities company; this position is open to all applicants.