Site and Ground Investigation Services

From solid foundations

Prior to Engineers being able to accurately design a foundation they must have a reasonably accurate conception of the physical properties and arrangement of the underlying materials.

The field and laboratory investigations required to obtain this essential information is referred to as ground or site investigation.

A site investigation simply is the process of the collection of the sub-surface information, the subsequent appraisal of the gathered data, assessment, and reporting without which the hazards in the ground beneath the site would not be known.

A Site Investigation should be carried out prior to any construction project in order to enable a geotechnical and geoenvironmental assessment of the ground conditions and analysis of the engineering and environmental considerations related to the proposed development of the site.

What we can deliver...

Our multi-skilled teams have particular expertise in many SI/GI works, working with and subsequently overcoming difficult access situations.

Our staff are highly adaptable and have experience in rock drilling, metal and paint sampling, and location of buried services.

With our ability to draw upon all our different operational departments, we can effect our own site access and liaise with Government bodies such as Network Rail, Canals and Rivers Trust, Environment Agency etc to effect access permissions.

With this experience and skill set we are able to offer the following:

  • Qualified Geotechnical Engineer led site works
  • Cable Percussive boreholes
  • D1500 bespoke tracked cable percussive rig
  • Ibex slope climbing dynamic sampling and auger rig
  • Rotary Drilled Boreholes
  • Dynamic Windowless Sampling & Probing (Include UT70 sampling Euro Code 7 compliant)
  • Concrete and Masonry Coring
  • Trial Pitting/Slit Trenching
  • Logging to BS5930 / EC7
  • Factual and interpretative Reporting
  • Laboratory Testing
  • NRSWA / Road Closures
  • Ballast Sampling & Contamination Testing
  • Geotechnical Monitoring

Bridgeway is RISQS approved for SI/GI work and is a Principal Contractor to Network Rail, which enables us to supply a full range of ground investigation work.

In addition to this we are able to conduct works in both Greenfield and Brownfield sites.

The SI/GI team comprises the following dedicated staff, which can be supplemented on a project by project basis:

  • Geotechnical Engineers & Operatives
  • Site Team Leaders
  • Rig Operatives
  • Competencies include Network Rail Safety Critical, NRSWA, CSCS & BDA

Projects

Name of Project:GSM2 Underbridge Structure 25

Project Description:Bridgeway Consulting Ltd (BCL) were instructed by AMCO (the Client) to undertake a structural investigation of GSM2 BR25 on the abutment walls and central pier to inform the stage 2 scour assessment and new scour scoring. The site is located 200m west of Melton Mowbray Station, which is situated 20km north east of Leicester and 30km south east of Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, in the East Midlands. Arup, who were commissioned by BCL to conduct the stage 2 scour assessment, provided BCL with a scope for the structural investigation to assist with their assessment.

Challenge

  • Acting as the interface between the client (Amco) and all other working parties such as Arup who undertook the level 2 scour assessment.
  • Liaise with the environment agency to obtain a permit to work on the water course.
  • The water levels at the structure fluctuated throughout the winter months which meant access could not be gained to the bridge piers. Bridgeway Consulting monitored the water levels and identified a window where the works were eventually completed in September 2017.

Achievement

  • Successfully managed all parties to ascertain a robust scope
  • Completed the full specified 8No structural cores which assisted Arup’s level 2 scour assessment
  • Good working relationship with the AMCO and Arup project team

Client:AMCO

Name of Project:NR4 (MT) LEN3/235 Dawdon Dene

Project Description:Undertake 3D laser Scanning Survey, UAV survey, Ground Investigation and roped access site investigation focussing on the five span masonry arch viaduct on behalf of Network Rail IP to investigate ring separation.>

  • Phase 1: Ecological survey and site walkout of the surrounding area to facilitate further works
  • Phase 2: Review Ecological survey and ascertain the best method of access for the ground investigation and site investigation
  • Phase 3: Undertake the planning of safe system of working for the works
  • Phase 4: Execute the GI, UAV and 3D laser Scanning Survey under and around the viaduct
  • Phase 5: Execute the on track roped access facilitated site investigation.
  • Phase 5: Demobilisation

Equipment and techniques used on this project:

  • Pasma tower access for viaduct arch coring
  • Premier 110 Window Sample Rig (5m)
  • Modular Dart windowless sample Rig (5m)
  • Roped access Structural coring of existing soffits in the various spans
  • Total station used to traverse control and laser scanner used to infill the UAV data
  • Mavric PRO used to fly above and below the viaduct
  • P30 laser scanner
  • DJI M210 & Zenmuse X4S

Challenge

  • Accessing the underside of the viaduct with limited possession times with roped access
  • Working on steep slopes underneath the viaduct
  • Programming works during COVID-19 initial lockdown
  • Training lead drillers up to level one roped access standard

Achievement

  • Successfully managing all disciplines to ascertain quality information
  • Good quality data received from the UAV point cloud to give a detailed image of the site
  • Quality structural cores giving the design team information on current strength and composition of the viaduct
  • Good working relationship with the NR project team

Client: Network Rail Infrastructure Projects

Name of Project:HS2 Euston Enabling Works

Project Description:Undertake specified GI at location planned by Arups on behalf of Network Rail IP Managing works for HS2.

  • Phase 1: Set-Up and undertake Principal Contractor Duties for Euston Station
  • Phase 2: Review Desk Study with Arup and NR. Ascertain the best method of investigation for material types expected and plan access accordingly
  • Phase 3: Undertake extensive planning activities for access to all lines within the Euston throat, utilise long possessions for mobilising plant into position to work ALO
  • Phase 4: Execute the GI
  • Phase 5: Demobilisation

Ground investigation equipment and techniques used on this project:

  • Enabling de-vegetation works
  • Road Rail CPT Rig
  • Premier 110 Window Sample Rig (8m)
  • Cabtrak D1500 Cable Percussion Rig
  • Trial Pitting (Hand Dug with revetment to 3m)
  • Dynamic Probing (Geotool 15m)
  • Structural coring of existing retaining wall (7.4m deep) with follow on Hand Held Window Sampling

Challenge:

  • Acting as the interface between the clients (HS2) designers (Arup) & the client (NRIP)
  • Achieving high volumes of locations within pressing possession times in one of the most challenging locations to work
  • Programming works to a very tight timescale due to follow on activities and information requirements to facilitate a D&B Tender
  • Obtaining a reliable sub-contractor to undertake the rail safety case and machine controller duties (TXM Plant)

Achievement:

  • Successfully managing all parties to ascertain a robust scope
  • Liaison with the designer and client to agree ways forward when the initial planned activities did not achieve the results expected
  • Exceeding designed depth with the D1500 and achieving 45m depth in over-consolidated London Clay
  • Good working relationship with the NR project team

Client: Network Rail Infrastructure Projects

Name of Project:Durham Re-Signalling

Project Description: Undertake specified GI at locations planned by Network Rail Project Team to facilitate the design of thirty-nine new signal base locations and six new level crossings.

  • Phase 1: Set-Up and undertake Principal Contractor Duties for the scheme
  • Phase 2: Review Desk Study with NR Project Team
  • Phase 2: Undertake walkover and subsequent access planning for all locations
  • Phase 4: Execute the GI
  • Phase 5: Demobilisation

Ground investigation equipment and techniques used on this project:

  • Enabling de-vegetation works
  • Premier 110 Window Sample Rig (8m)
  • Trial Pitting (Hand Dug with revetment to 3m)
  • Dynamic Probing (Geotool 10m)
  • GPR Survey for location of buried services

Challenge:

  • Acting as the interface between the clients (NR) and all other working parties
  • Achieving high volumes of locations within pressing possession times in one of the busiest freight routes

Achievement:

  • Successfully managing all parties to ascertain a robust scope
  • 98% success rate of planned versus actual on works
  • Despite the 98% success rate project was brought in on time and under original budget with no de-scoped works
  • Good working relationship with the NR project team

Client: Network Rail Infrastructure Projects

Capability Statements
Current Vacancies
Graduate Geotechnical Engineer
Details Apply

Graduate Geotechnical Engineer

The deadline for applications is 26/02/2026

Graduate Geotechnical Engineer

Location: Nottingham (site-based across the UK)

Contract: Full-time, Permanent

About Bridgeway Site & Ground Investigation

Our Site & Ground Investigation team provides the foundations - literally - for safe, sustainable civil engineering and railway projects. From desk studies and surveys to sampling, testing and reporting, our work informs decisions that really matter.

We specialise in rail environments, where investigations often take place at night, on weekends, and in complex conditions. It’s challenging work, but incredibly rewarding.

The opportunity

This is a brilliant role for a graduate who wants more than a desk-based job.

As a Graduate Geotechnical Engineer, you’ll gain hands-on experience across a wide variety of site investigations, supported by experienced engineers who are invested in your development. You’ll be trusted early, mentored properly, and given real responsibility as your confidence grows.

What you’ll be doing

• Carrying out site duties including soil and rock sampling and geotechnical testing
• Undertaking structural sampling of steel, concrete and masonry
• Working across rail, highways and open land environments
• Producing accurate site notes for technical and interpretive reports
• Assisting in the production of factual ground and structural investigation reports
• Attending safety, technical and team briefings
• Providing technical input to projects as required
• Undertaking railway safety-critical duties (where trained and competent)
• Developing basic project management skills as you progress

What we’re looking for

• Degree (BSc/BEng/MSc/MEng) in Engineering Geology, Geology, Physical Geography or similar
• Full clean UK driving licence
• Willingness to learn, develop and get involved
• Ability to pass PTS medical, D&A screening and rail training
• Flexible approach - this role will include nights, weekends and lodging away

What you’ll get in return

At Bridgeway, we know the site investigation industry isn’t easy, especially in rail. That’s why we focus on development, support and progression.

You can expect:

• Structured mentoring from experienced engineers
• Real exposure to rail and infrastructure projects from day one
• Clear development pathways within geotechnical and site investigation
• Funded training, rail competencies and professional development
• A culture that values teamwork, safety, trust and accountability

If you’re looking to build a career, not just get a job, and want to learn from people who genuinely care about doing things right, we’d love to hear from you.

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Site Investigation Engineer
Details Apply

Site Investigation Engineer

The deadline for applications is 26/02/2026

Site Investigation Engineer

Location: Nottingham (with site work across the UK)

Contract: Full-time, Permanent

About the role

At Bridgeway, our Site Investigation Engineers are right at the heart of how safe, reliable infrastructure gets built. This is a hands-on role for someone who enjoys being out on site, solving problems, and working as part of a highly skilled team delivering complex ground investigations, particularly within the rail environment.

Reporting to the Principal Engineer / Technical Manager / Project Manager, you’ll play a key role in planning, supervising and delivering ground investigation works from start to finish, ensuring everything is done safely, compliantly, and to a high technical standard.

We specialise in rail environments, where investigations often take place at night, on weekends, and in complex conditions. It’s challenging work, but incredibly rewarding.

If you enjoy responsibility, variety, and being trusted to get things done properly - this role is for you.

What you’ll be doing

• Planning and supervising ground investigations, including drilling, sampling and in-situ testing
• Preparing and reviewing method statements and risk assessments
• Ensuring compliance with CDM Regulations, client specifications, and industry standards
• Logging soil and rock in line with BS 5930 and BS EN ISO 14688/14689
• Applying your knowledge of drilling techniques and site investigation equipment
• Installing and monitoring instrumentation such as vibrating wire piezometers, inclinometers, and ground gas & groundwater monitoring
• Liaising with clients, contractors and local authorities to keep projects running smoothly
• Maintaining accurate site records and supporting data analysis and reporting
• Supporting and mentoring graduate engineers on site, sharing knowledge and best practice

What we’re looking for

• Degree in Geology, Physical Geography, Applied Geoscience or a related discipline
• Some industry experience in site/ground investigation
• Good working knowledge of UK Specification for Ground Investigation, EC7, and BS 5930
• Full UK manual driving licence
• A proactive, safety-focused mindset and strong attention to detail

Why Bridgeway?

We’re not a “tick-box” consultancy. We’re known for doing things properly especially in challenging rail environments where standards matter and conditions aren’t always easy.

In return for your commitment, we offer:

• A competitive salary and benefits package
• Exposure to a wide range of complex rail and infrastructure projects
• Clear progression pathways - whether you want to grow technically or move into project management
• Funded training, competencies, and professional development
• A supportive culture where people are trusted, developed, and backed

This is an exciting opportunity to build a long-term career with one of the UK’s leading infrastructure and rail site investigation specialists.

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Trainee Site Investigation Technician
Details Apply

Nottingham
Competetive Starting Salary

The deadline for applications is 18/02/2026

Are you looking to kick-start a career in civil engineering and infrastructure? Want to work on exciting, high-profile projects across the UK? Bridgeway is seeking motivated, hands-on individuals to join our specialist Site Investigation (SI) team as a Trainee Site Investigation Technician.

Who we are:

Bridgeway Consulting operates across a wide range of infrastructure sectors, including railways, highways, and environmental engineering. We’re known for our expertise, commitment to safety, and investment in people. If you're looking to build a future in the engineering industry, this is the place to start.

As we undertake a large volume of railway work, there is a requirement for regular midweek nights and weekend working.

General Responsibilities/Duties:

To form part of the drilling teams and assist the Site Team Leader and Lead Driller in the following duties:

Production of site records including, but not limited to; daily drilling logs, pre-start drilling rig checks.
Completing in-situ testing and sampling in accordance with the relevant standards.
Conduct coring operations and break outs to structures.
Acting as Assistant Driller and working within the Drilling Team to complete boreholes in accordance with the appropriate specification using a variety of drilling rigs and equipment ranging from dynamic sampling, cable percussion and rotary drilling.
Undertake other general labouring duties e.g. borehole grouting and general reinstatement, railway duties as required, borehole installation monitoring, delivery of consumables to site teams and collection of samples.

What we are looking for:

Hardworking and reliable
Eager to learn and develop practical, on-site skills
Able to drive a manual vehicle in the UK
Happy to work outdoors and embrace physical work
Flexible with working hours (including night shifts and weekends)
Happy to stay away from home if needed.

What You’ll Gain:

We’re proud to offer outstanding training and career progression. From day one, you’ll receive the support and qualifications needed to thrive in the role. Your initial training package will include:

Personal Track Safety (PTS)
Emergency First Aid
Site Warden Training
Manual Handling
CAT & Signal Generator Training
PASMA Training
CSCS Card
Enrolment in NVQ Level 2 in Land Drilling Operations

You’ll also be mentored by experienced professionals and have clear opportunities to progress within the company.

Applicants who already have qualifications listed above will also be considered.

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