Geo-Seismic Engineer
Geo-Seismic Engineer – Job Profile
Role Overview
- A Geo-Seismic Engineer integrates geotechnical engineering with earthquake engineering to assess, design, and mitigate seismic risks for infrastructure projects. The role involves analysing soil–structure interaction under seismic loading, evaluating ground hazards, and recommending seismic-resilient foundation and ground-improvement strategies.
Key Responsibilities
A. Seismic Hazard & Ground Response
- Perform probabilistic and deterministic seismic hazard assessments (PSHA/DSHA).
- Develop site-specific response spectra as per IS 1893 / ASCE 7 / relevant codes.
- Conduct 1D / 2D ground response analyses (SHAKE, DEEPSOIL, PLAXIS, FLAC, etc.).
B. Geotechnical Seismic Analysis
- Evaluate soil liquefaction potential, cyclic softening, settlement, and lateral spreading.
- Assess slope stability under seismic conditions (pseudo-static & dynamic).
- Carry out seismic bearing capacity and foundation response assessments.
- Analyse soil–structure interaction (SSI) for buildings, bridges, tanks, towers, ports, etc.
C. Design & Recommendations
- Provide seismic design criteria for foundations, retaining structures, tunnels, earth dams, and critical infrastructure.
- Recommend ground improvement measures (stone columns, PVDs, dynamic compaction, grouting) for seismic mitigation.
- Prepare seismic microzonation inputs, liquefaction mitigation plans, and geotechnical design reports.
D. Data Interpretation & Reporting
- Interpret geotechnical investigation and geophysical data (MASW, CSW, SPT, CPT, Vs profiling).
- Prepare technical reports, design notes, and presentations for clients and approvals.
E. Project Coordination
- Coordinate with structural, geotechnical, and geophysical teams.
- Participate in client meetings, design reviews, and site visits.
- Ensure compliance with IS 1893, IS 4967, IS 6403, Eurocode 8, FEMA, and relevant international standards.
Skills & Technical Competencies
Technical Skills
- Strong understanding of soil dynamics, earthquake engineering, and foundation design.
- Proficiency in seismic analysis tools:
PLAXIS, FLAC, SHAKE2000/DEEPSOIL, OpenSees, GeoStudio, SLOPE/W, QUAD4M, etc. - Knowledge of seismic geophysics (Vs30, attenuation, site classification).
- Ability to interpret CPT, SCPT, downhole, crosshole, MASW data.
Soft Skills
- Analytical thinking & problem solving
- Technical writing and documentation
- Multi-disciplinary coordination
- Attention to detail & code compliance
Qualifications
- B.Tech / BE in Civil Engineering (minimum)
- M.Tech / MS in Geotechnical / Earthquake Engineering / Soil Dynamics preferred
- 2–10+ years of experience depending on seniority.
Experience in applications
- Infrastructure consulting (metro, ports, bridges, highways)
- Oil & gas, offshore & onshore geotechnics
- Power plants, industrial plants
- Dam engineering and hydropower
- Disaster management and seismic microzonation projects
Key Deliverables
- Seismic hazard reports
- Ground response analyses
- Liquefaction and cyclic strength reports
- Seismic design parameters for foundations
- Geotechnical seismic design notes and review comments