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Geotechnical Lab Manager Jobs in Kent, WA (NOW HIRING)

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Geotechnical Lab Manager information

See Kent, WA salary details

$38.9K

$121.5K

$194.2K

How much do geotechnical lab manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for geotechnical lab manager in Kent, WA is $121,463.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,400.00 and $147,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectGeotechnical Lab ManagerGeotechnical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's degree in geotechnical engineering, geology, or related field; lab management experienceBachelor's or master's degree in geotechnical engineering or geology; engineering licensure may be preferred
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting, overseeing testing procedures and lab staffField and office settings, designing projects and analyzing soil data
Industry UsageCommonly employed in geotechnical testing labs within construction, mining, or environmental firmsUsed across consulting firms, construction companies, and government agencies for project design

The main difference is that a Geotechnical Lab Manager oversees laboratory operations and staff, focusing on testing and quality control, while a Geotechnical Engineer designs projects and analyzes soil data. Both roles require relevant technical credentials, but their daily responsibilities and work environments differ significantly.

What are some common challenges faced by a geotechnical lab manager, and how can they be addressed?

One common challenge for Geotechnical Lab Managers is ensuring the accuracy and reliability of test results while managing a high volume of projects with tight deadlines. Maintaining rigorous quality control procedures and regularly calibrating equipment are essential to meet industry standards. Additionally, effective communication and coordination with field teams and project managers are crucial to clarify testing requirements and adapt to changing project scopes. Building a strong, well-trained laboratory team helps distribute workload efficiently and fosters a collaborative work environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a geotechnical lab manager?

To thrive as a Geotechnical Lab Manager, you need a solid background in civil engineering or geology, with expertise in soil and material testing, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree and significant laboratory experience. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), geotechnical testing equipment, and certifications such as ASTM or AASHTO standards are typically required. Strong leadership, organizational skills, and effective communication set top performers apart in managing teams and ensuring accurate results. These skills and qualifications are crucial for maintaining laboratory quality, ensuring compliance, and delivering reliable data for engineering projects.

What does a geotechnical lab manager do?

A Geotechnical Lab Manager oversees the daily operations of a laboratory specializing in soil, rock, and construction material testing. They coordinate testing procedures, ensure that equipment is properly maintained and calibrated, and supervise lab staff. Additionally, they are responsible for maintaining quality control standards, interpreting test results, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations. Their work supports civil engineering projects by providing essential data for design and construction decisions.
What cities near Kent, WA are hiring for Geotechnical Lab Manager jobs? Cities near Kent, WA with the most Geotechnical Lab Manager job openings:
Geotechnical Lab Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Geotechnical Lab Manager job openings in Kent, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Locum Tenens, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,463 per year, or $58.4 per hour.

Geotechnical Engineer - Mi-Tech Services, Inc.

Michels Corporation

Renton, WA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

As a full-service engineering, design, and construction services firm, Mi-Tech delivers comprehensive support for utility and infrastructure projects from planning and design through execution. Our multidisciplinary team provides practical, innovative solutions that emphasize cost efficiency, constructability, and long-term value. Founded in 1985, Mi-Tech has built a reputation for excellence in engineering, design, environmental, laboratory, technical, and field services across multiple industries. The 2026 merger with J.D. Hair & Associates further strengthened our capabilities and resources, adding decades of specialized expertise in trenchless, geotechnical, and structural engineering to our core offerings. As a proud member of the Michels Family of Companies, Mi-Tech collaborates with an internationally respected team to deliver integrated, end-to-end engineering, design, and construction solutions that meet the highest standards of quality and performance.
In your role as an Geotechnical Engineer at Mi-Tech, you'll perform geotechnical engineering and geological analyses and calculations. You will prepare and write technical engineering and other reports. You will manage/ perform field explorations, collection of samples, geologic reconnaissance, and mapping. You will assign and manage the geotechnical lab testing and communicate results.
Why Mi-Tech Services Inc.?
  • We are committed to hiring the best people and giving them the best equipment.
  • We are dedicated to improving energy distribution & telecommunication services that serve and improve the communities around us.
  • Our steady, strategic growth revolves around a commitment to quality. If it's worth doing, it's worth doing right.
  • We are family owned and operated. We work to see each other succeed, not to increase a stock market valuation.
  • We invest an average of $5,000 per employee on training each year. We want each of our team to learn and grow.
  • We believe everyone is responsible for promoting safety, regardless of job title. We are our brothers' and sisters' keeper.
  • We are a part of the Michels Family of Companies - one of North America's largest, most diversified energy and infrastructure construction companies.

Why you?
  • You like to surround yourself with dedicated, genuine, value-driven people.
  • You are up to new challenges and opportunities. You like to learn and try new things.
  • You cringe when you hear: "Because that's the way we've always done it."
  • You like to know your efforts are noticed and appreciated.
  • You believe that individual commitment to a group effort is key to success.
  • You want your work to make a tangible difference in people's lives.

What It Takes
  • BS in Civil Engineering / MS Degree in Geotechnical Engineering.
  • A minimum of 3 years of experience in Geotechnical Engineering.
  • In process of receiving a Professional Engineering (PE) License.
  • Work experience (and/or coursework) in one or more of the following areas: soil mechanics; rock mechanics; rock and soil slope stability; shallow and deep foundations; tunneling; micro tunneling; seismic design; earthquake engineering; and retaining structures.
  • Knowledge and experience of field/construction coordination and observation in one or more of the following areas: logging geotechnical explorations, interpretation of installation and recording of geotechnical instrumentation, field reconnaissance, and/or underground work.
  • Experienced in the use of geotechnical modeling software, including L-Pile, RSpile, Settle3D, Slide, or similar to perform deep foundation analyses, settlement assessments, seepage assessments, liquefaction assessment and to interpret results for design recommendations.

This information reflects the anticipated base salary for this position based on current market data. Minimums and maximums may vary based on location. Actual pay will be adjusted based on individual's skills, experiences, education, and other job-related factors permitted by law.
Expected Salary Range
$75,000-$105,000 USD
AA/EOE/M/W/Vet/Disability
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