Geotechnical Department Manager

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

We are seeking an experienced Geotechnical Department Manager to lead and expand our Miami operations while overseeing a diverse portfolio of geotechnical projects throughout South Florida.

This is an exciting opportunity for a technical leader who thrives in a fast-paced consulting environment and is looking to make a significant impact on major infrastructure, commercial, industrial, and residential developments.

What You'll Do

As the Geotechnical Department Manager, you will be responsible for the overall leadership, technical excellence, financial performance, and growth of the geotechnical practice in the Miami region.

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
Travel Requirements

● This position does not require regular travel as part of its primary responsibilities. However, occasional
travel may be required, up to 10%, primarily for occasional off-site meetings, training sessions, or
company events. Travel, when necessary, will be communicated in advance and aligned with business
needs.

#LI-ND1 #LI-ONSITE 

Physical Demands & Work Environment

• Occasionally exposed to outside weather conditions such as precipitation, extreme cold or heat, dusty and noisy work environments.
• Office work requiring long-term sitting and computer work
• The physical requirements for this position may include and are not limited to:o Ability to lift and/or carry up to 40 lbso Ability to stand and walk for long periods of time as well as drive long distanceso Frequent use of fingers, hands and arms for typing, cellphoneo Ability to bend, twist, reach, stoop, pull, kneel, lift, carry, and push repetitivelyo Ability to speak and hear effectively to communicate sometimes with noisy environmentso Ability to see, smell, hear and touch as well as reach, climb or balance, crouch, stoop, crawl, kneel and sito Ability to regularly lift and/or move/shake up to 40lbs. (soil and/or concrete tests and related apparatus); frequently lift and/or move up to 60lbs. (soil and sand samples, and nuclear density equipment); and occasionally move more than 100lbs. (such as a loaded wheelbarrow of concrete samples)

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