Geotechnical Division Manager

Geotechnical Divisional Manager - Reno, NV or Sparks, NV

Certerra provides technology-enabled testing, inspection, and certification services for new product development, engineering solutions to manage assets, and quality assurance for project delivery.

Working in partnership, we help you bring code compliant products to market faster, move into construction with confidence, keep your projects moving forwards and extend the life of your infrastructure assets.

With a nationwide office network and an expert team of over 1,000 people, we have the resources to deliver materially better outcomes, along with local knowledge that ensures the communities we serve are built to last.

Job Summary: Geotechnical Division Manager leads a team of engineers and technical staff in delivering subsurface investigation, soil and rock analysis, foundation design, and slope stability assessments for civil, infrastructure, and development projects. The role oversees project execution, quality control, client relationships, and business development — combining deep technical expertise with strategic leadership to grow the division's market presence and revenue.

• Technical Leadership
  • Oversee geotechnical investigations, soil/rock testing, and subsurface exploration programs
  • Review and approve engineering reports, foundation designs, slope stability analyses, and geohazard assessments
  • Ensure technical quality and accuracy across all division deliverables
• Project Management
  • Manage multiple projects simultaneously, including scope, schedule, budget, and staffing
  • Coordinate with clients, subconsultants, drillers, and lab testing firms
  • Monitor project profitability and utilization rates
• Business Development & Marketing
  • Identify and pursue new project opportunities and client relationships
  • Prepare and lead proposals, presentations, and fee negotiations
  • Represent the firm at industry events, conferences, and professional organizations
  • Maintain and grow relationships with existing clients
• Staff Management
  • Hire, mentor, and evaluate geotechnical engineers, technicians, and support staff
  • Assign and balance workload across the team
  • Support professional development and licensure of junior engineers
  • Manage division budget, revenue targets, and profitability goals
  • Track invoicing, accounts receivable, and project cost control
  • Report division performance to senior leadership
• Compliance & Risk Management
  • Ensure work complies with applicable codes, standards, and regulations
  • Manage professional liability and project risk

Minimum Degree Requirement

• Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Civil Engineering, with a concentration or emphasis in Geotechnical Engineering — required at most firms

• Master of Science (M.S.) in Geotechnical Engineering — strongly preferred and often expected at the division manager level
• Ph.D. in Geotechnical Engineering — advantageous for firms with heavy research, forensic, or specialty focus

Professional Licensure

• Professional Engineer (PE) license
• Multi-state PE licensure

Additional Certifications (Valued but not required)

• Geotechnical Engineer (GE) license — required in California, valued elsewhere
• Board certification through the American Academy of Environmental Engineers and Scientists (AAEES)
• OSHA 40-Hour HAZWOPER — relevant for contaminated site work
• Certified Construction Manager (CCM) — useful for construction-phase geotechnical services

Experience in Lieu of Advanced Degree

• Many firms will accept a B.S. plus 12–20+ years of progressive geotechnical experience in place of a graduate degree, particularly if the candidate holds a PE and has a strong project and business development track record

Typical Experience Range at This Level

• 15–25 years of geotechnical engineering experience, with at least 5 years in a senior or leadership role

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. This Company is dedicated to both the letter and the spirit of the equal opportunity employment laws. All applicants and all employees will be evaluated on the basis of their ability, competence, and performance of the essential functions of their positions. There will be no discrimination on the basis of race, sex, national origin, religion, age 40 and over, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, or any other classification which may be protected by federal, state, or local laws.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, we specifically offer equal opportunity for all employees or job applicants who may have a physical or mental disability. Such persons will be hired on the basis of their ability to perform the essential