Job Title
Geotechnical Engineering Project Manager
Salary
$90,000 - $120,000 (base) + performance incentives / bonus potential
Job Description
We are seeking a seasoned and dynamic Geotechnical Project Manager to partner with a well-established engineering/consulting firm in the Bay Area. Reporting to senior leadership, this role entails full ownership of geotechnical projects from proposal through execution and close-out. The ideal candidate combines strong technical geotechnical engineering expertise with proven project management, commercial acumen, client relationship skills, and leadership capabilities.
The firm maintains a strong regional presence, this role is based in Sunnyvale, CA and supports projects across the entire Nor-Cal area. There is strong potential for the right individual to step into the C-Suite over time, with a clear succession path to executive leadership.
Responsibilities
Lead and manage multiple geotechnical projects (site investigations, foundation design, earth retention, slope stability, ground improvement, etc.) through all phases: planning, design, bidding, execution, and close-out
Develop scope, budgets, schedules, and risk plans; track and manage project finances, forecasts, and change orders
Serve as principal client interface: build and maintain relationships, manage expectations, and deliver exceptional service
Oversee the technical work: review subsurface investigation plans, data interpretation, geotechnical analyses, design calculations, technical reports, specifications, and drawings
Coordinate field operations: mobilization, drilling, sampling, testing, logging, ground monitoring, field instrumentation, and site supervision
Manage subcontractors, sub-consultants (e.g. labs, drilling firms), and vendors
Ensure quality assurance / quality control (QA/QC) on deliverables; check technical work of junior staff
Monitor project schedules; identify and mitigate technical, contractual, safety, or logistical risks
Contribute to business development: lead proposal efforts, scope development, client presentations, and pursuit strategy
Mentor, grow, and lead a project team of geotechnical engineers, technicians, and support staff
Interface with other disciplines (civil, structural, environmental) and coordinate integrated project delivery
Provide periodic status reporting to senior leadership, including progress, financials, risk status, resource needs
Participate in strategic planning, contribute to operational improvements, processes, and potentially assume executive responsibilities over time
Benefits
Competitive compensation with performance bonus / incentive opportunities
Medical, dental, vision insurance
Retirement plan (e.g. 401(k) with company match)
Paid time off (vacation, sick leave, holidays)
Flexible / hybrid work options (depending on project requirements)
Professional development support (licensure, conference attendance, continuing education)
Company-paid professional memberships and certifications
Travel / field work reimbursement
Career advancement and leadership development programs
Succession path to executive leadership (e.g. VP, CTO, or other C-Suite role)
Why Join
You will join a technically respected, growing engineering firm with a solid client base and reputation in the region
The firm values innovation, quality, and integrity, and gives autonomy to proven performers
You will have direct influence over project selection, strategy, and execution
This role offers a unique opportunity for career trajectory: a well-defined path toward senior executive leadership for high performers
You'll be exposed to diverse and technically challenging geotechnical projects across infrastructure, development, energy, and transportation sectors
You'll lead and shape a high-caliber geotechnical team and help set the technical direction and culture
The firm supports work-life balance, invests in your growth, and fosters collaboration across disciplines