Geotechnical Department Manager

Company Overview

Our client is a well-established and growing geotechnical engineering firm with a strong reputation and expanding presence in the industry. With multiple office locations and a team of 21 dedicated professionals within our Geotechnical group including experienced engineers and skilled technicians we bring both depth of expertise and collaborative strength to every project.

Locations
Headquartered in Auburn Hills, MI, we also operate out of additional office locations, including Lansing. Both Auburn Hills and Lansing offices are equipped with fully functioning laboratory facilities, allowing us to efficiently support a wide range of testing and analysis needs.

Experience & Foundation
As an established firm with a long-standing presence in geotechnical engineering, we have built a solid reputation for reliability, technical excellence, and client-focused service.

Core Expertise

• Geotechnical engineering

• Site analysis

• Soil testing

Services Offered
We provide comprehensive geotechnical solutions, including:

• Geotechnical consulting

• Engineering analysis

• Field testing services

Markets Served
Our team supports projects across a diverse range of sectors, including:

• Infrastructure

• Commercial development

• Industrial projects

• Residential development

Geographic Reach
Based in Auburn Hills, Michigan, we have the flexibility and capability to support projects from our other office locations as needed, ensuring responsive service and regional coverage.

Position Summary

Our client is looking for a dynamic and experienced geotechnical engineering leader to oversee and guide our Geotechnical Engineering Department. This role blends hands-on project management with strategic department leadership, offering a unique opportunity to step into a high-impact position within an established and growing team.

You will work closely with the Director of the Geotechnical Department, who will remain actively involved in project work, while you focus on leading the department’s day-to-day operations, performance, and growth initiatives.

Role Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee the Geotechnical Engineering Department to ensure efficient, high-quality project execution.

• Manage and mentor a team of engineers and technicians, fostering professional growth and team collaboration.

• Partner with the Director of Geotechnical Engineering to balance project delivery with department-wide initiatives.

• Develop and implement strategies to improve department performance, efficiency, and scalability.

• Coordinate effectively with internal departments and external clients to ensure project success and client satisfaction.

• Continue managing project teams while stepping into broader departmental leadership responsibilities.

Team Structure

• The Geotechnical group consists of 21 staff members, including engineers and technicians.

• This position represents a natural progression from a Senior Project Manager role, expanding into department leadership while maintaining involvement in project management.

Objective of the Role

• Provide strong leadership and clear direction for the Geotechnical team.

• Support the Director in managing and strengthening the department while he remains engaged in project execution.

• Identify opportunities for process improvement, operational efficiency, and team development.

• Ensure consistent delivery of high-quality work and exceptional client service.

Position Requirements

Education / Licensure

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, or a related field.

• Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred.

Experience

• 15+ years of experience in geotechnical engineering.

• Proven experience managing project teams and demonstrating career progression.

• Senior Project Manager experience required.

• Prior department management experience is not required.

Additional Qualifications

• Strong leadership skills with experience mentoring and developing teams.

• Ability to balance technical project responsibilities with department-wide leadership initiatives.

Why This Role is Compelling

Growth Opportunity

• Step into a department management role without needing prior department head experience.

• Take on a leadership position within an established and expanding geotechnical team.

• Opportunity for long-term organizational influence and expanded leadership responsibilities.

Additional Selling Points

• Collaborative and supportive team environment within a well-established firm.

• Strong industry reputation in geotechnical engineering.

• Meaningful opportunity to shape department strategy and influence the team’s future direction.

Flexibility & Perks

• Initial on-site presence required in Auburn Hills, with potential for increased flexibility over time.

• Some flexibility in office location as the role evolves.

Benefits & Compensation

• Competitive salary based on experience.

• Medical, Dental, and Vision plans available.

• PTO / Vacation.

• Performance-based bonuses available.