Geotechnical Lab Manager

Burns Cooley Dennis, Inc. (BCD) is a premier provider of geotechnical engineering, construction materials engineering and testing (CMET), and pavement engineering services. Established in 1985 and headquartered in Ridgeland, Mississippi, BCD delivers tailored engineering solutions to meet the unique requirements of our clients. With over 40 years of excellence, we are a trusted partner in the field of engineering consulting, backed by a dedicated team of experts and a commitment to professional integrity.

We are seeking a highly organized and technically proficient Geotechnical Laboratory Manager to lead our laboratory operations in Ridgeland, MS. This individual will oversee the daily workflows of the geotechnical lab, ensuring that all soil testing is performed with the highest degree of accuracy and in strict accordance with ASTM and AASHTO standards.

The Laboratory Manager is responsible for supervising laboratory staff (five individuals), managing equipment maintenance and calibration, and coordinating with project managers to meet rigorous project deadlines. This is a leadership role that requires a blend of hands‑on technical mastery and administrative oversight.

• Operational Oversight: Manage day‑to‑day laboratory operations, including scheduling tests, managing backlogs, and ensuring timely delivery of results to engineering staff.
• Technical Excellence: Perform and supervise advanced geotechnical tests (e.g., triaxial shear, consolidation, permeability, and direct shear) and ensure data integrity.
• Quality Assurance: Maintain laboratory accreditation (AASHTO/AMRL and USACE) and ensure all procedures comply with internal and industry quality standards.
• Staff Leadership: Train, mentor, and supervise laboratory technicians, fostering a culture of precision and safety. Maintain a work environment within the lab conducive to respectful, courteous, professional, and productive work for all lab employees and encourage professional development.
• Equipment Calibration: Oversee the maintenance, repair, and calibration of all laboratory equipment and software systems.
• Safety Management: Enforce strict adherence to BCD’s safety protocols within the laboratory environment.

• Experience: Minimum of 5–7 years of experience in a geotechnical laboratory, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or management capacity.
• Testing Mastery: Strong knowledge of soil mechanics and laboratory testing procedures (Atterberg limits, proctors, grain size analysis, triaxial shear, consolidation, permeability, direct shear, etc.). Familiarity with GEOTAC laboratory testing equipment preferred.
• Administrative
  
  Skills:
  
  Proficiency in laboratory information management systems (specifically, GEOSYSTEM Software) and Microsoft Excel. Experience with gINT and technical report writing is advantageous.
• Communication: Strong interpersonal and communication skills to effectively coordinate between lab technicians, engineers, management, and clients.
• Detail Oriented: Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple high‑priority projects simultaneously.
• Physical Requirements: Ability to lift 50+ pounds.
• Education: A Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Geology, or a related field is preferred, though extensive professional experience will be considered. Candidates with a Master of Science degree in Civil Engineering, with geotechnical focus and strong laboratory interest, are encouraged to apply.
• Driver’s License: Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record.
• Drug Testing: BCD is a Drug‑Free Workplace. Candidates must successfully pass a pre‑employment drug screen and will be subject to random drug and alcohol testing as a condition of employment.