Director of Operations - Structural Forensics; Licensed PE

Department: Forensics

Lerch Bates is seeking an experienced leader to oversee and grow our structural forensic engineering team. The Director of Operations will lead business operations, technical project delivery, team development, and client relationships while driving strategic growth initiatives.

This role combines technical expertise, operational leadership, and business strategy. The ideal candidate brings experience leading forensic, rehabilitation, or building consulting teams and is comfortable managing complex projects, mentoring professionals, developing client relationships, and driving business performance.

• Lead, mentor, and develop team members through coaching, technical guidance, and career development opportunities
• Conduct regular one‑on‑one meetings, performance discussions, and development planning with direct reports
• Foster a collaborative culture focused on technical excellence, accountability, and continuous improvement
• Support hiring, staffing, succession planning, and team growth initiatives

• Oversee project execution across multiple engagements, ensuring quality, schedule, and budget objectives are met
• Coordinate staffing and resource allocation to support utilization goals and business performance objectives
• Review technical deliverables for quality, consistency, and compliance with company standards
• Support proposal development and provide technical guidance on project scope and staffing needs
• Monitor project financial performance including revenue, invoicing, forecasting, and backlog management

• Build and strengthen relationships with existing and prospective clients
• Serve as a trusted advisor for key projects and strategic client engagements
• Identify opportunities for service expansion and business growth
• Support business development efforts through networking, presentations, and industry involvement

• Monitor market trends, client needs, and industry developments to identify opportunities and risks
• Participate in strategic planning activities including forecasting, growth initiatives, staffing plans, and operational goals
• Provide business updates, performance metrics, and operational reporting to leadership teams

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management, or a related discipline
• PE, SE, AIA, or other relevant professional licensure preferred
• 8+ years of experience in forensic engineering, rehabilitation, building consulting, architecture, engineering, or construction
• 2+ years of leadership experience with responsibility for team management, business operations, and strategic planning
• Strong understanding of building systems, structural systems, design, and construction practices
• Experience managing complex projects, budgets, schedules, and client relationships
• Demonstrated ability to lead, coach, and develop teams
• Strong business acumen and financial understanding
• Excellent communication and relationship‑building skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and make sound decisions in a fast‑paced environment

• Competitive compensation
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off (starting at 17 days annually)
• 9 paid holidays
• 401(k) with employer match
• Employee Stock Ownership Program (ESOP)
• Paid parental leave
• Professional development and tuition reimbursement
• Performance‑based incentives and bonuses
• Employee assistance and wellness programs

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a pre‑employment background check and drug test. The drug test includes screening for marijuana, regardless of state or local laws permitting its use. A conditional offer of employment will be rescinded if a candidate fails either the background check or the drug test. This requirement is mandated by federal regulations applicable to our government contracting obligations.

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by law.