Department Manager, Geotechnical

Overview

At UES, we’re a team of more than 4,000 engineers, scientists, geologists, inspectors, technicians, and drillers united by a shared purpose—to make a meaningful impact in the communities we serve. As a national leader in geotechnical engineering, environmental consulting, and materials testing and inspection, we collaborate on transformative projects across transportation, energy, water, healthcare, and more. Learn more about the benefits of joining Team UES and our core values at

The Geotechnical Department Manager is responsible for overseeing and managing all aspects of the geotechnical engineering department, including project execution, team leadership, business development, and client relations. This role ensures high-quality technical services, compliance with industry standards, and strong financial performance while fostering a collaborative and productive work environment.

• Lead, mentor, and manage a team of geotechnical engineers, technicians, and support staff.
• Develop departmental goals, strategies, and policies aligned with organizational objectives and growth targets.
• Oversee daily department operations, ensuring resources are allocated effectively and projects are delivered on time and within budget.
• Foster a positive, collaborative work culture that promotes innovation, problem‑solving, and continuous improvement.
• Monitor and improve departmental performance using key performance indicators (KPIs) and regular assessments.
• Manage staffing levels, hiring, onboarding, training, and professional development for team members.
• Plan and oversee geotechnical investigations, including site assessments, soil testing, and foundation design studies.
• Coordinate with other departments (civil, environmental, structural) to integrate geotechnical input into overall project designs.
• Act as the primary client contact, managing relationships and ensuring satisfaction with geotechnical services.
• Prepare and review technical reports, proposals, and budgets for geotechnical projects.
• Ensure quality control of deliverables and address client concerns promptly.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant local, state, and federal regulations governing geotechnical engineering practices.
• Maintain adherence to industry standards (ASTM, AASHTO, etc.) and best practices.
• Conduct QA/QC reviews of technical reports, fieldwork, and laboratory testing.
• Stay current with industry trends, technologies, and regulations to ensure innovative and compliant solutions.
• Lead business development initiatives, including identifying opportunities, preparing proposals, and growing the client base.
• Collaborate with senior leadership to develop strategic plans for geotechnical service growth.
• Build and maintain relationships with clients, architects, developers, and contractors to foster long‑term partnerships.
• Monitor market trends, competitors, and new technologies to support departmental innovation and competitiveness.
• Develop and manage the department’s budget, ensuring cost‑effective operations and profitability.
• Monitor project budgets and timelines, adjusting as needed to meet business objectives.
• Review financial reports and provide input on resource allocation and profitability.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, or a related field.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license or Engineer‑in‑Training (EI) certification required.
• Minimum of 5 years of related experience.
• Experience in geotechnical laboratory testing, soil mechanics, and foundation design.
• Familiarity with emerging geotechnical testing technologies, such as in‑situ testing or data analytics.
• Valid Driver’s License with an acceptable driving record (per company standards).
• Ability to pass a background check.

• NC/SC Professional Engineer (PE) License.

• This position requires occasional travel, approximately 10% to 20% of the time, to support business objectives and client engagements.
• Travel may be both scheduled and on short notice, depending on project needs.
• Destinations typically include job sites, field locations, or regional…