Principal Engineer
Principal Geotechnical Engineer
Overview
An established engineering consulting firm is seeking a Principal Geotechnical Engineer to provide technical leadership, oversee complex geotechnical projects, and support the continued growth of a multidisciplinary practice.
This position is ideal for a senior geotechnical professional with extensive experience leading investigations, developing design recommendations, mentoring technical staff, and serving as a trusted advisor to both internal teams and external clients.
Key Responsibilities
Technical Leadership
- Serve as a senior technical authority on geotechnical engineering projects.
- Provide expertise related to foundation systems, earthworks, retaining structures, slope stability, settlement analysis, and soil and rock mechanics.
- Lead the development of technical approaches for challenging and complex assignments.
- Review engineering analyses, reports, specifications, and design recommendations to ensure technical quality and consistency.
Project Management & Oversight
- Direct and oversee major geotechnical investigations and design projects.
- Develop project scopes, schedules, budgets, and resource plans.
- Monitor project performance, quality, and profitability.
- Support project managers and technical staff on complex engineering matters.
Client Development & Relationship Management
- Build and maintain strong relationships with public and private sector clients.
- Participate in proposals, presentations, interviews, and strategic growth initiatives.
- Identify opportunities to expand existing client relationships and service offerings.
- Act as a senior technical consultant and trusted advisor throughout project delivery.
Quality Assurance & Risk Management
- Conduct senior-level technical reviews and quality assurance evaluations.
- Assess geotechnical risks and develop practical mitigation strategies.
- Ensure compliance with applicable engineering standards, regulations, and industry best practices.
- Provide support during challenging construction or field conditions.
Mentoring & Team Development
- Mentor engineers and project leaders at various stages of their careers.
- Support professional development, technical growth, and licensure objectives.
- Contribute to the development of engineering standards, procedures, and best practices across the organization.
Construction Phase Support
- Provide engineering guidance during construction activities.
- Review field observations, testing data, and contractor submittals.
- Assist project teams in resolving geotechnical challenges encountered during construction.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or related discipline.
- Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering preferred.
- Professional Engineer (PE) license required.
- 15+ years of geotechnical consulting and project leadership experience.
- Strong understanding of transportation and heavy civil infrastructure projects.
- Experience supporting large public-sector and infrastructure programs.
- Demonstrated success reviewing technical deliverables and leading multidisciplinary project teams.
- Excellent communication, leadership, and client relationship skills.
What the Firm Offers
- Competitive compensation package.
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
- Employer-supported retirement savings program.
- Company-paid life and disability insurance.
- Professional development and continuing education support.
- Generous paid time off and holiday schedule.
- Opportunities for technical leadership and career advancement.
About the Opportunity
This role offers the opportunity to work on complex infrastructure and development projects while helping shape technical standards, mentor engineering professionals, and contribute to the long-term growth of a respected engineering organization. The successful candidate will play a key role in delivering innovative geotechnical solutions across a diverse portfolio of projects.
FAQs
Congratulations, we understand that taking the time to apply is a big step. When you apply, your details go directly to the consultant who is sourcing talent. Due to demand, we may not get back to all applicants that have applied. However, we always keep your CV and details on file so when we see similar roles or see skillsets that drive growth in organisations, we will always reach out to discuss opportunities.
Yes. Even if this role isn’t a perfect match, applying allows us to understand your expertise and ambitions, ensuring you're on our radar for the right opportunity when it arises.
We also work in several ways, firstly we advertise our roles available on our site, however, often due to confidentiality we may not post all. We also work with clients who are more focused on skills and understanding what is required to future-proof their business.
That's why we recommend registering your CV so you can be considered for roles that have yet to be created.
Yes, we help with CV and interview preparation. From customised support on how to optimise your CV to interview preparation and compensation negotiations, we advocate for you throughout your next career move.