Geotechnical Lab Manager at Fugro

Fugro; Dammam; On-site; SAR 360,000 - 540,000; Full time

Job summary

Fugro in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, seeks a Geotechnical Laboratory Manager to oversee daily lab operations, ensure high‑quality testing against ASTM/AASHTO standards, manage equipment and schedule resources, and lead a skilled team of technicians in a fast paced environment.

The role requires strong QA/QMS stewardship, client liaison for testing requirements, formal SOPs, data integrity, safety training, and continuous improvement to deliver reliable geotechnical results on diverse projects.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Geotechnical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a geotechnical laboratory environment with demonstrated lab management and QA/QMS experience.
• Strong knowledge of ASTM, AASHTO and related geotechnical testing standards; proficiency with LIMS and data software.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day laboratory operations and scheduling.
• Plan resource allocation to meet project deadlines and optimize equipment use.
• Develop, implement, and maintain SOPs and QMS; monitor QA processes.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical

Communication

Organizational

Quality & Safety

Education

Bachelor's degree in Geotechnical or Civil Engineering

Tools

LIMS

Microsoft Office

Job description

Location Dammam, Saudi Arabia Stage Experienced Level Time Full time Type Employee

Job Description

The Geotechnical Laboratory Manager is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the geotechnical laboratory, ensuring the delivery of high-quality testing services, compliance with industry standards, effective team leadership, and the maintenance of a safe and efficient working environment. The role involves managing laboratory resources, supervising technical staff, ensuring quality assurance, and providing technical support to internal and external stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

• Laboratory Operations Management
  Manage and supervise the day-to-day operations of the geotechnical laboratory.
  Plan and coordinate laboratory schedules, workflows, and resource allocation to meet project requirements and deadlines.
  Ensure efficient utilization of laboratory personnel, equipment, and materials.
• Quality Assurance & Compliance
  Ensure all laboratory testing activities are conducted in accordance with ASTM, AASHTO, and other applicable international standards.
  Develop, implement, and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Quality Management Systems (QMS).
  Monitor laboratory performance and maintain quality control processes to ensure accuracy and reliability of test results.
• Equipment Management
  Oversee the calibration, maintenance, repair, and procurement of laboratory equipment.
  Ensure all equipment remains operational, accurately calibrated, and compliant with safety and quality requirements.
  Maintain equipment records and coordinate with vendors and service providers as required.
• Team Leadership & Development
  Lead, mentor, and supervise laboratory technicians and support staff.
  Conduct performance evaluations and provide coaching, training, and professional development opportunities.
  Promote a culture of teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Geotechnical Testing & Technical Oversight
  Supervise and, when required, perform geotechnical laboratory tests including: Soil Classification Grain Size Analysis Atterberg Limits Permeability Testing Compression Strength Testing Other relevant geotechnical investigations
  Review and validate test procedures and results to ensure technical accuracy.
• Reporting & Documentation
  Prepare, review, and approve technical reports containing test results, observations, and recommendations.
  Ensure accurate data entry, analysis, recordkeeping, and documentation in laboratory systems.
  Maintain laboratory records in compliance with quality and project requirements.
• Client & Stakeholder Engagement
  Serve as the primary technical contact for clients regarding laboratory testing requirements and results.
  Provide technical guidance, consultation, and support to clients and project teams.
  Build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Health, Safety & Environmental Compliance
  Ensure compliance with company health, safety, and environmental policies and procedures.
  Conduct regular safety inspections and audits within the laboratory.
  Promote a safe working culture and ensure staff receive appropriate safety training.

Qualifications & Experience

• Education Bachelor’s Degree in Geotechnical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Experience Minimum of 5 years of experience in a geotechnical laboratory environment. Demonstrated experience in laboratory management, quality assurance, and team supervision.
• Technical Competencies Strong knowledge of ASTM, AASHTO, and other applicable geotechnical testing standards. Advanced understanding of soil and materials testing methodologies. Proficiency in laboratory information management systems (LIMS), laboratory data software, and Microsoft Office applications.

Skills & Attributes

• Strong leadership and people management skills.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Commitment to quality, safety, and continuous improvement.

Preferred Qualifications

• Professional certifications related to geotechnical testing, laboratory management, quality systems, or materials testing.
• Experience working within ISO-accredited laboratory environments.
• Familiarity with laboratory accreditation and audit processes.