An engineering geologist is an earth scientist who has specialized in the application of geologic principles to civil works. A geotechnical engineer is a civil engineer who has specialized in the design and construction aspects of earth materials. Both professions share many of the same knowledge, skills and abilities. Each field, however, has particular strengths. Engineering geologists typically have greater skills in characterization of geologic conditions and processes, and in evaluation of how processes will be affected or will affect a specific development activity. Geotechnical engineers will typically have greater skill in development of site-specific geotechnical design recommendations and criteria.