Project Development Engineer - Geotechnical
Project Development Engineer (Remote)
Location: Remote (U.S.-wide, regionally aligned)
Recruitment Partner: LVI Associates
The Opportunity
We are partnering with a market-leading geotechnical design-build contractor to appoint a Project Development Engineer (PDE).
This is a high-impact, client-facing role designed for engineers who want to step beyond traditional design and play a key role in winning and shaping complex geotechnical projects.
This opportunity is particularly suited to geotechnical engineers who are motivated by:
- Applying technical expertise in real-world environments
- Engaging directly with clients and stakeholders
- Driving project origination and revenue growth
Due to a scarcity of engineers willing to operate in commercial, outward-facing roles, this position offers rapid visibility, career growth, and earning potential.
Key Responsibilities
- Identify, develop, and convert project opportunities within geotechnical and heavy civil markets
- Act as a client-facing technical lead, managing projects from early engagement through to award
- Build relationships with owners, consultants, and contractors across your region
- Conduct site visits and technical assessments to understand ground conditions and constraints
- Develop and present tailored geotechnical solutions (e.g., slope stabilization, earth retention, ground improvement)
- Collaborate with internal engineering and construction teams to deliver design-build proposals
- Lead technical discussions and communicate complex engineering solutions clearly to clients
- Manage a pipeline of opportunities with a focus on regional market nuances and project positioning
What Makes This Role Unique
- A rare opportunity to combine geotechnical engineering expertise with commercial ownership
- Direct involvement in project origination and revenue generation
- Exposure to complex, high-risk geotechnical challenges impacting critical infrastructure
- Opportunity to own a territory and build a strong industry presence
- Work within a business that delivers end-to-end design-build solutions, ensuring engineering ideas are executed in the field
Candidate Requirements (Essential)
- Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, or related discipline
- Strong geotechnical engineering background is essential (candidates without this will not be considered)
- Experience in areas such as:
- Slope stability and landslide mitigation
- Retaining structures / earth retention systems
- Ground improvement or grouting
- Foundations or excavation support
- Exposure to contractor, consultant, or design-build environments
- Strong communication skills with the ability to present technical concepts to clients
- Interest in or experience with business development / client-facing responsibilities
Preferred Profile
- A geotechnical engineer looking to transition into a "selling engineer" / project development role
- Experience working closely with construction teams or field operations
- Commercial awareness and an interest in driving projects forward
- Entrepreneurial mindset with a desire to build networks and win work
Why Apply?
- Join a rapidly growing, infrastructure-focused business with strong financial backing
- Work on projects that directly impact public safety and critical infrastructure
- Be part of a company investing in its market presence and industry visibility
- Move into a role offering greater autonomy, influence, and earning potential than traditional engineering paths
FAQs
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