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 careers.teamues.com.

Position Overview

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.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Qualifications

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

Preferred Qualifications

• NC/SC Professional Engineer (PE) License

Travel Requirements

• 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 offices, where work may be conducted in outdoor or operational environments.
• Adherence to all company safety protocols and use of PPE is required during travel and on-site work.

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Physical Demands & Work Environment

• Office work requiring long-term sitting and computer work.

• On-Site Office Requirements:

• Work is performed at a desk for extended periods using a computer, phone, and standard office equipment in a climate-controlled office environment.

• Regular in-person communication with team members, clients, and stakeholders is required.

• Physical demands may include sitting for long durations, occasional standing, walking, bending, and lifting of materials up to 15 pounds.

• Field Environment:

• Work at outdoor sites including wetlands, forests, grasslands, construction zones, and undeveloped land.

• Travel on foot across uneven, rugged, or obstructed terrain, sometimes in areas inaccessible by vehicle.

• Exposure to varying weather conditions including heat, cold, humidity, rain, or sun.

• Possible presence of insects, animals, or natural and man-made hazards in field environments.

• Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift and carry between 35-75 lbs. of equipment or samples over distances up to 75 feet.

• Ability to stand, walk, drive, and operate lab and field equipment for extended periods.

• Ability to bend, twist, reach, stoop, kneel, climb, and balance as needed during both lab and fieldwork.

• Ability to communicate effectively in both verbal and written formats in varied environments, often while wearing PPE.

• Ability to use sensory capabilities to see (including close and distant vision, color perception, depth perception, and focus) and smell for observation and safety purposes.

EEO Statement

UES is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is proud to recruit the most qualified candidates. Please see our full EEO Statement at the bottom of the page here