Geotechnical Principal Engineer — Lead Projects & Client Relationships

Hillis-Carnes Engineering Associates, Inc.; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); On-site; USD 140,000 - 210,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid holidays

Generous paid time off

Medical with HSA

Dental

Vision

Long-term disability

Short-term disability

401k with company match

Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)

Employee Assistance Plan

Company events

Wellness program

Employee self-service site

Job summary

Hillis-Carnes Engineering Associates, Inc. in Pittsburgh seeks a Principal Engineer to lead geotechnical engineering and CMT projects. You will represent the firm in client meetings, mentor junior staff, and drive business development while maintaining high-quality deliverables and risk management.

The role requires independence, strong leadership, and a track record of complex project success. The position offers senior-level responsibilities within an employee-owned firm, with comprehensive

Qualifications

• Bachelor and/or Master of Science in Civil or Geological Engineering from an ABET-accredited program.
• 12+ years of progressive geotechnical/CMT consulting experience.
• Professional Engineer (P.E.) license.

Responsibilities

• Lead geotechnical and CMT projects with minimal supervision and ensure high-quality deliverables.
• Review and negotiate contract terms with clients.
• Drive business development to win new work and support junior staff.
• Act as final quality control manager for written deliverables.
• Manage proposals, cost estimates, reports, specifications, and correspondence.
• Develop client relationships and serve as primary client contact.
• Resolve client concerns and oversee collections and AR tasks.
• Maintain strong performance in metrics like billability and timely deliveries.
• Perform site visits to support junior staff and field work.
• Contribute to BD efforts and participate in professional/industry groups.
• Ensure compliance with safety policies and permitting requirements.
• Demonstrate deep understanding of geotechnical/CMT principles and standards.

Skills

Geotechnical engineering

CMT

Leadership

Mentoring

Business development

Education

ABET-accredited Civil/Geological engineering degree

Tools

RocScience

Ensoft

Tablogs

Job description

Hillis-Carnes Engineering Associates, Inc. in Pittsburgh seeks a Principal Engineer to lead geotechnical engineering and CMT projects. You will represent the firm in client meetings, mentor junior staff, and drive business development while maintaining high-quality deliverables and risk management.

The role requires independence, strong leadership, and a track record of complex project success. The position offers senior-level responsibilities within an employee-owned firm, with comprehensive