Geotechnical Laboratory Manager

LVI Associates is partnered with a key client who is seeking an experienced and motivated Geotechnical Laboratory Manager to join a high‑volume materials testing laboratory. This role is ideal for a technically strong, solutions‑driven professional who thrives in a fast‑paced environment and is passionate about advancing laboratory performance, team development, and geotechnical testing excellence.

Overview

Our client is looking for a leader with deep expertise in geotechnical and construction materials testing. You will oversee daily and long‑term operations of a geotechnical and construction materials laboratory, guiding technicians and engineers while contributing to complex soil and rock testing programs. The ideal individual is energetic, proactive, and committed to maintaining a high‑performing, quality‑focused laboratory environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage daily and long‑term laboratory operations including staff supervision, training, equipment maintenance, quality assurance, safety, and productivity.
  
  

• Lead and coordinate high‑volume geotechnical and construction materials testing workflows, ensuring efficient project planning, budget control, staffing oversight, and review/approval of project invoicing.
  
  

• Perform, oversee, and approve advanced soil and rock testing programs, including but not limited to:
  triaxial (UC, UU, CU, CD), direct shear, DSS, cyclic DSS, cyclic triaxial, permeability testing, and special mix testing (soil-cement, bentonite, etc.).
  
  

• Generate, calculate, compile, and issue laboratory testing reports; supervise junior staff performing the same work; ensure accuracy, clarity, and technical integrity.
  
  

• Proactively monitor laboratory workloads, identify bottlenecks, and implement process improvements to maintain smooth, timely operations.
  
  

• Oversee laboratory procedures including test setup, instrumentation, load application, data acquisition, analysis, and cleanup.
  
  

• Maintain documentation for training, testing methods, safety protocols, and accreditation compliance, including QMS systems aligned with AASHTO and USACE standards.
  
  

• Support business development efforts and client relationship management where needed (experience preferred but not required).
  
  

Qualifications

(Fully redacted to avoid direct match to employer, but aligned with publicly available requirements.)

• Strong technical background in geotechnical engineering and construction materials testing.
• Experience in laboratory management, staff supervision, workflow coordination, and operational leadership.
• Proficiency with MS Excel for developing and managing testing worksheets.
• Experience generating technical reports and overseeing data accuracy.
• Knowledge of advanced geotechnical testing procedures and instrumentation.
• Strong organizational, communication, and team‑leadership skills.
• Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field (Master's preferred).
  
  

Why This Opportunity

This role offers the chance to lead a growing laboratory team, drive operational excellence, and work on technically challenging geotechnical projects within a supportive and fast‑moving environment. The selected candidate will play a critical part in shaping laboratory performance, quality standards, and the next stage of team development.