Geotechnical Department Manager

JOB SUMMARY:

• The Geotechnical Department Manager will lead a team in coordinating and overseeing diverse geotechnical projects across industrial, commercial, and residential sectors.
• This role involves managing the geotechnical department, ensuring efficient operations, fostering teamwork, and promoting professional development.
• Responsibilities include client collaboration, project proposal development, and maintaining high quality standards.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Strategic Planning & Budgeting:
  • Develops long-term goals and business plans for the department, manages the annual capital budget, and provides input on departmental budgets to align with overall business objectives.
  • Participates in strategic planning initiatives and contributes to the overall growth and success of the organization.
• Business Development & Networking:
  • Collaborates with the Business Development department to create and execute the departments annual business development plan, while networking to enhance the departments and companys reputation.
  • Leads the development of project proposals and defines project tasks, schedules, and resource requirements.
• Department Management & Performance:
  • Monitors department chargeability targets, ensures staff understand both company-wide and departmental objectives, and oversees day-to-day operations, including quality of work environment and employee productivity.
  • Provides leadership and management for the preparation of Geotechnical and CMT projects, conducting team meetings, evaluating project progress, and maintaining client satisfaction.
  • Coordinates with project architects, civil engineers, structural engineers, and other technical staff to ensure successful project delivery.
• Policy & Compliance Oversight:
  • Develops, maintains, and enforces department-specific policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with company standards.
  • Establishes project goals and ensures adherence to QA/QC standards, while developing and implementing departmental policies, procedures, and best practices to enhance efficiency and quality.
• Cross-Departmental Coordination:
  • Works closely with the IT and HR departments to address department-specific technology and employee relations issues, providing input on hires and staff development.
  • Collaborates with other department managers to optimize resource allocation and project scheduling.
• Financial Oversight:
  • Reviews and approves weekly departmental invoices, including software, equipment, and other expenses.
  • Manages project budgets, analyzes profitability, monitors revenue generation, prepares client billing information, manages collections, and identifies additional revenue opportunities.
• Workplace Culture & Team Development:
  • Fosters a positive work culture, maintains a professional workspace, and supports employee growth and relations.
  • Mentors and develops staff within the geotechnical department to ensure ongoing professional growth.
• Client & Contract Management:
  • Consults with clients to determine site requirements, provides design information for geotechnical investigations, and maintains regular communication throughout the project lifecycle.
  • Reviews and signs project contracts, handles change orders, and oversees project scope.
• Other Responsibilities:
  • Leads special projects to support departmental operations or corporate goals.
  • Performs additional duties as assigned to support department and company objectives

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelors Degree in Civil Engineering or equivalent
• Michigan P.E. License or ability to obtain
• 10 years of experience in the field of civil engineering, demonstrating increasing levels of responsibility.
• Working knowledge of typical computer software programs used for geotechnical engineering design and management (Microsoft Office, etc.)
• Working knowledge of codes, regulations, and standards applicable to the geotechnical design and construction of major site development projects in Michigan.

Competencies and Personal Attributes:

• Demonstrated ability to manage staff and multi-disciplinary projects.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to resolve technical issues and address challenges encountered during geotechnical projects.
• Experience in mentoring and coaching junior geotechnical staff, providing guidance and support in their professional development.
• Proven track record of successful project delivery and client satisfaction, with a focus on delivering high-quality geotechnical services on time and within budget.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Self-motivated with the ability to motivate others.
• Sound understanding of financial management.
• Proficient in conflict resolution and client satisfaction.