Principal Engineer - Transportation

Engineering Consulting Services; Asheville (NC); On-site; USD 80,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is looking for a Principal Engineer to lead their transportation team in North Carolina. This role combines technical expertise with mentoring and business development, offering a unique opportunity to shape the future of infrastructure projects. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in geotechnical and transportation engineering, with a strong focus on design and project management. This position not only involves overseeing complex projects but also mentoring the next generation of engineers. Join a dynamic team that values innovation and collaboration, and make a significant impact in the field of engineering.

Qualifications

• 12+ years of experience in geotechnical and transportation engineering.
• Professional Engineer (P.E.) license required; P.G. license may be acceptable.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical expertise and support to geotechnical staff.
• Mentor junior engineers and oversee project managers on field activities.
• Serve as final reviewer for geotechnical reports and designs.

Skills

Geotechnical Engineering

Transportation Engineering

Project Management

Technical Leadership

Analytical Skills

Communication Skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering

Master’s degree in Civil Engineering

Tools

gINT

LPile

APile

MSEW

FB-Pier

GRLWEAP

MicroStation

Job description

ECS is seeking a Principal Engineer to join our transportation team, providing technical expertise and leadership across transportation and other infrastructure projects in North Carolina. This role combines technical excellence with mentoring and business development responsibilities. Leading a team of experienced field staff, engineers and scientists. The Principal Engineer will serve as a final reviewer of geotechnical reports, primary designer for more complex projects as needed and they will contribute to departmental management, client development, and fostering the professional growth of staff.

Key Responsibilities:

• Primary responsibilities include providing technical expertise and supporting geotechnical / transportation staff both within the branch and throughout the region.
• Mentor and coach junior and mid-level engineers, technicians, and staff project managers.
• Participate in the Associate Principal review committee and mentor candidates for this designation.
• Plan and oversee project managers on geotechnical explorations and field activities such as drilling, test pits, and inspections.
• Perform and review slope stability analyses, foundation designs (shallow and deep), retaining structures, and settlement evaluations.
• Serve as final reviewer and ensure the accuracy of geotechnical reports, designs, and project deliverables.
• Provide innovative design solutions to enhance project efficiency and performance.
• Act as a technical resource for project teams across the region, ensuring adherence to DOT and AASHTO specifications.

Client and Business Development:

• Host or attend client and internal project meetings to provide technical solutions.
• Assist with business development by maintaining and expanding client relationships and identifying growth opportunities.
• Collaborate with marketing efforts to showcase ECS services and capabilities.

What We're Looking For:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Civil Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, Geological Engineering, or related field.
• Professional Engineer (P.E.) license required; Professional Geologist (P.G.) license may be acceptable in certain states.
• Minimum of 12 years of experience in geotechnical and transportation engineering, with a focus on design, project management, and technical leadership.
• Expertise in DOT Geotechnical Design Manual (GDM), AASHTO LRFD specifications, and geotechnical software (e.g., gINT, LPile, APile, MSEW, FB-Pier, GRLWEAP).
• Proficiency in MicroStation is preferred.
• Proven track record of leading technical reviews and serving as a senior technical reviewer at a previous firm.
• Strong analytical, report-writing, and communication skills.
• Demonstrate initiative and leadership in problem-solving and decision-making.
• Valid driver’s license required for travel on behalf of ECS.

Note: This description provides a general overview of responsibilities and qualifications and may evolve with project and business needs.