Geotechnical Department Manager

Geotechnical Department Manager - Auburn Hills, MI

Location: Auburn Hills, MI

Employment Type: Full-Time | Work Model: Hybrid

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

• Develop long-term goals and business plans for the department, manage annual budgets, and contribute to strategic planning initiatives.
• Collaborate on business development efforts, network with clients, and lead proposal preparation.
• Oversee department performance, monitor targets, manage day-to-day operations, and ensure staff productivity.
• Provide leadership in geotechnical and construction materials testing (CMT) projects, conduct team meetings, and maintain client satisfaction.
• Coordinate with architects, civil and structural engineers, contractors, and technical staff for successful project delivery.
• Establish and enforce departmental policies and QA/QC standards to maintain quality and compliance.
• Manage departmental finances, including budgets, billing, collections, and profitability analysis.
• Foster a positive workplace culture, mentor staff, and support professional development.
• Serve as primary contact for clients, manage contracts and scope changes, and maintain ongoing communication throughout projects.
• Lead special projects and perform additional duties to support departmental and company objectives.

Qualifications

• Bachelors degree in Civil Engineering or equivalent.
• Michigan Professional Engineer (P.E.) license or ability to obtain.
• Minimum 10 years of civil/geotechnical engineering experience with progressive responsibility.
• Demonstrated leadership in managing staff, budgets, and multi-disciplinary projects.
• Strong knowledge of geotechnical design codes, regulations, and standards.
• Proficiency with typical software used in geotechnical design and management (e.g., Microsoft Office).
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and client relationship skills.
• Experience mentoring and coaching junior engineers.
• Strong financial management and conflict resolution abilities.