Geotechnical Regional VP - San Diego Growth Leader

Certerra; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 180,000 - 260,000; Full time

Job summary

Certerra is seeking a hands-on VP/Area Manager to lead geotechnical engineering operations in the San Diego market. You will drive business development, manage staff and projects, and maintain key client relationships in Southern California.

The role requires an active California PE, a GE license preferred, and a track record of growing regional geotechnical services. The position emphasizes leadership and direct client engagement in a fast-paced consultancy.

Qualifications

• Active California PE license required.
• Geotechnical Engineer (GE) license strongly preferred.
• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, or related discipline.
• 7+ years of progressive geotechnical engineering, construction materials testing, or related consulting experience.
• Strong understanding of the Southern California market.
• Proven success in business development, account management, and client relationship growth.
• Experience managing engineering operations, teams, and project financial performance.
• Strong leadership, communication, and relationship-building skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead regional business development and client relationship efforts throughout the San Diego market.
• Develop, maintain, and expand existing client accounts and contracts while identifying new opportunities.
• Represent Certerra/RMA Group within the Southern California engineering and construction community.
• Manage day-to-day operations of the office, engineering staff, field personnel, and laboratory teams.
• Mentor and support technical and operational staff while promoting collaboration.
• Collaborate with executive leadership on regional growth strategy and market expansion initiatives.
• Support proposals, pricing strategies, contract negotiations, and project pursuits.
• Maintain relationships with developers, municipalities, public agencies, contractors, architects, and consultants.
• Monitor project performance, profitability, utilization, and client satisfaction.
• Drive operational excellence, quality service delivery, and long-term client retention.

Skills

Leadership

Business development

Client relations

Operations management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Civil/Geotechnical Engineering

Job description

Certerra is seeking a hands-on VP/Area Manager to lead geotechnical engineering operations in the San Diego market. You will drive business development, manage staff and projects, and maintain key client relationships in Southern California.

The role requires an active California PE, a GE license preferred, and a track record of growing regional geotechnical services. The position emphasizes leadership and direct client engagement in a fast-paced consultancy.