Geotechnical Department Manager  2026-193

Location: Auburn Hills, Michigan – This is a hybrid role, working in office 2-3 days per week, and the rest remote
Relocation Assistance: YES – Limited relocation assistance available through potential sign-on bonus
Visa Sponsorship:   No

Experience Required: 10 years

Education Requirements: BS Civil Engineering; Professional Engineer License

Please note – the client does not allow us to post the salary range, nor the company name. Please contact Tom@TheHiringCatalyst.com if you have questions.

We are working with a growing Engineering Firm in the Detroit area that specializes in civil engineering, land surveying, and geotechnical consulting, that is actively seeking an experienced professional to join them as Geotechnical Department Manager.

Your Role:

In this role, you will lead a team in coordinating and overseeing diverse geotechnical projects across industrial, commercial, and residential sectors, working with clients in 20+ States. You will manage the geotechnical department, ensuring efficient operations, fostering teamwork, and promoting professional development, being responsible for  client collaboration, project proposal development, and maintaining high quality standards.

Strategic Planning and Budgeting

• Develop long-term goals and business plans for the department, manage the annual capital budget, and provide input on departmental budgets to align with overall business objectives.
• Participate in strategic planning initiatives and contribute to the overall growth and success of the organization.

Business Development and Networking

• Collaborate with the Business Development department to create and execute the department’s annual business development plan, while networking to enhance the department’s and company’s reputation.
• Lead the development of project proposals and define project tasks, schedules, and resource requirements.

Department Management and Performance

• Monitor department chargeability targets, ensuring the staff understand both company-wide and departmental objectives, and oversee day-to-day operations, including quality of work environment and employee productivity.
• Provide leadership and management for the preparation of Geotechnical and CMT projects, conducting team meetings, evaluating project progress, and maintaining client satisfaction.
• Coordinate with project architects, civil engineers, structural engineers, and other technical staff to ensure successful project delivery.

Policy and Compliance Oversight

• Develop, maintain, and enforce department-specific policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with company standards.
• Establish project goals and ensure adherence to QA/QC standards, while developing and implementing departmental policies, procedures, and best practices to enhance efficiency and quality.

Cross-Departmental Coordination

• Work closely with the IT and HR departments to address department-specific technology and employee relations issues, providing input on hires and staff development.
• Collaborate with other department managers to optimize resource allocation and project scheduling.

Financial Oversight

• Review and approve weekly departmental invoices, including software, equipment, and other expenses.
• Manage project budgets, analyze profitability, monitor revenue generation, prepare client billing information, manage collections, and identify additional revenue opportunities.

Workplace Culture and Team Development

• Maintain and grow a positive work culture, maintaining a professional workspace, and supporting employee growth and relations.
• Mentor and develop staff within the geotechnical department to ensure ongoing professional growth.

Client and Contract Management

• Consult with clients to determine site requirements, provide design information for geotechnical investigations, and maintain regular communication throughout the project lifecycle.
• Review and sign project contracts, handle change orders, and oversee project scope.

Other Responsibilities

• Lead special projects to support departmental operations or corporate goals.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support department and company objectives

Required Skills:

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

Required Experience:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering or equivalent.
• Michigan Professional Engineer License or ability to obtain.
• 10 years of experience in the field of civil engineering, demonstrating increasing levels of responsibility.

Preferred Experience:

• Business development experience, including developing proposals, networking with clients, driving revenue.
• Strong financial management skills, including budgeting, profitability analysis, collections.
• Experience mentoring staff and fostering professional growth
• Familiarity with Michigan codes, regulations, and site development standards

To apply be sure to refer to Job 2026-193 and click here.
Or, email an updated resume to Tom@TheHiringCatalyst.com.