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Geotechnical Department Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ECS Ltd

Geotechnical Department Manager

Houston, TX · On-site

Position & Office Overview As a Geotechnical Department Manager, you strive to lead both your team and your profits. You have extensive experience both out on the field as well as handling the ...

ECS Ltd

Geotechnical Department Manager

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

$105K - $135K/yr

Position & Office Overview As a Geotechnical Department Manager, you strive to lead both your team and your profits. You have extensive experience both out on the field as well as handling the ...

ECS Ltd

Geotechnical Department Manager

Dearborn, MI · On-site

Position & Office Overview As a Geotechnical Department Manager, you strive to lead both your team and your profits. You have extensive experience both out on the field as well as handling the ...

ECS Ltd

Geotechnical Department Manager

Houston, TX

Position & Office Overview As a Geotechnical Department Manager, you strive to lead both your team and your profits. You have extensive experience both out on the field as well as handling the ...

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Geotechnical Department Manager information

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$34.5K

$107.6K

$172K

How much do geotechnical department manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for geotechnical department manager in the United States is $107,595.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,000.00 and $130,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Geotechnical Department Manager do?

A Geotechnical Department Manager oversees the operations of the geotechnical engineering department within a company or organization. Their responsibilities include managing staff, coordinating projects, ensuring quality control, and serving as the main point of contact for clients and stakeholders. They also develop proposals, manage budgets, and ensure that all work complies with relevant regulations and industry standards. This role requires both technical expertise in geotechnical engineering and strong leadership skills.

How much is the salary of a geotechnical engineer?

The salary of a geotechnical engineer varies based on experience, location, and industry, but typically ranges from $60,000 to $100,000 annually. Senior geotechnical engineers or those with specialized skills can earn higher salaries, especially in regions with high demand for infrastructure and construction projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Geotechnical Department Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Geotechnical Department Manager, you need expertise in soil mechanics, foundation engineering, and project management, typically supported by a degree in civil or geotechnical engineering and a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Familiarity with geotechnical analysis software (e.g., PLAXIS, GeoStudio), laboratory testing protocols, and construction documentation systems is essential. Strong leadership, client communication, and problem-solving skills help you manage multidisciplinary teams and complex projects effectively. These qualifications ensure safe, efficient project delivery and foster client trust in high-stakes construction environments.

What is the meaning of geotechnical work?

Geotechnical work involves studying soil, rock, and groundwater conditions to assess their stability and suitability for construction projects. A Geotechnical Department Manager oversees these investigations, which often include field sampling, laboratory testing, and analysis to inform foundation design and site development. This work requires technical knowledge, field skills, and adherence to safety and engineering standards.

What are some typical challenges a Geotechnical Department Manager faces when leading multidisciplinary teams on large-scale projects?

A Geotechnical Department Manager often navigates the complexities of coordinating between geotechnical engineers, project managers, and external stakeholders while ensuring technical accuracy and regulatory compliance. Balancing project deadlines with resource allocation, managing risk assessment, and maintaining clear communication across disciplines are common challenges. Additionally, the manager is responsible for mentoring junior staff, overseeing quality assurance protocols, and adapting to evolving project requirements. Successful managers foster collaboration and maintain flexibility to address unforeseen site conditions and client needs.

What is the meaning of geotechnical?

Geotechnical refers to the branch of engineering that deals with the behavior of earth materials such as soil and rock. In the context of a Geotechnical Department Manager, it involves overseeing site investigations, soil testing, and foundation design to ensure safe and stable construction projects.

What is the difference between Geotechnical Department Manager vs Geotechnical Engineer?

AspectGeotechnical Department ManagerGeotechnical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Geotechnical Engineering, often with management experienceBachelor's or Master's in Geotechnical Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentOversees teams, manages projects, and coordinates with clientsPerforms field investigations, analysis, and design work
Industry UsageLeadership role within engineering firms or departmentsTechnical role focused on analysis and design

The Geotechnical Department Manager focuses on overseeing teams, managing projects, and strategic planning, while the Geotechnical Engineer handles technical analysis, fieldwork, and design tasks. Both roles require relevant credentials, but the manager emphasizes leadership and coordination, whereas the engineer concentrates on technical expertise.

What is the average cost of a geotechnical survey?

For a geotechnical department manager, the cost of a geotechnical survey typically ranges from $1,000 to $5,000 per site, depending on project size, soil conditions, and depth of investigation. Larger or more complex projects may cost significantly more, especially if advanced testing or drilling is required. Costs also vary based on location and the scope of services provided by geotechnical firms.
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Geotechnical Department Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Geotechnical Department Manager job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, and 18% Part Time. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,595 per year, or $51.7 per hour.
Geotechnical Department Manager

Geotechnical Department Manager

Enginuity Advantage

Auburn Hills, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

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.

Apply