Geotechnical Department Manager; soil mechanics, foundation engineering, and slope stability

Job Summary

The Geotechnical Department Manager will lead a team in coordinating and overseeing diverse geotechnical projects across industrial, commercial, and residential sectors. This role involves managing the geotechnical department, ensuring efficient operations, fostering teamwork, and promoting professional development. Responsibilities include client collaboration, project proposal development, and maintaining high quality standards.

• Strategic Planning & Budgeting:
  Develop long‑term goals and business plans for the department, manage the annual capital budget, and provide input on departmental budgets to align with overall business objectives. Participate in strategic planning initiatives and contribute to the overall growth and success of the organization.
• Business Development & Networking:
  Collaborate with the Business Development department to create and execute the department’s annual business development plan, while networking to enhance the department’s and company’s reputation. Lead the development of project proposals and define project tasks, schedules, and resource requirements.
• Department Management & Performance:
  Monitor department chargeability targets, ensure staff understand both company‑wide and departmental objectives, and oversee day‑to‑day operations, including quality of work environment and employee productivity. Provide leadership and management for the preparation of Geotechnical and CMT projects, conducting team meetings, evaluating project progress, and maintaining client satisfaction.
• Policy & Compliance Oversight:
  Develop, maintain, and enforce department‑specific policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with company standards. Establish project goals and ensure adherence to QA/QC standards, while developing and implementing departmental policies, procedures, and best practices to enhance efficiency and quality.
• Cross‑Departmental Coordination:
  Work closely with the IT and HR departments to address department‑specific technology and employee relations issues, providing input on hires and staff development. Collaborate with other department managers to optimize resource allocation and project scheduling.
• Financial Oversight:
  Review and approve weekly departmental invoices, including software, equipment, and other expenses. Manage project budgets, analyze profitability, monitor revenue generation, prepare client billing information, manage collections, and identify additional revenue opportunities.
• Workplace Culture & Team Development:
  Foster a positive work culture, maintain a professional workspace, and support employee growth and relations. Mentor and develop staff within the geotechnical department to ensure ongoing professional growth.
• Client & Contract Management:
  Consult with clients to determine site requirements, provide design information for geotechnical investigations, and maintain regular communication throughout the project lifecycle. Review and sign project contracts, handle change orders, and oversee project scope.
• Other Responsibilities:
  
  Lead special projects to support departmental operations or corporate goals. Perform additional duties as assigned to support department and company objectives.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering or equivalent.
• Michigan P.E. License or ability to obtain.
• 10 years of experience in the field of civil engineering, demonstrating increasing levels of responsibility.
• Working knowledge of typical computer software programs used for geotechnical engineering design and management (Microsoft Office, etc.).
• Working knowledge of codes, regulations, and standards applicable to the geotechnical design and construction of major site development projects in Michigan.

• Demonstrated ability to manage staff and multi‑disciplinary projects.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, with ability to resolve technical issues and address challenges encountered during geotechnical projects.
• Experience in mentoring and coaching junior geotechnical staff, providing guidance and support in their professional development.
• Proven track record of successful project delivery and…