Principal Geotechnical Engineer/Division Manager

SOCOTEC; Portland (OR); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent engineering firm is seeking an experienced Principal Geotechnical Engineer/Division Manager to lead a new division in Portland, Oregon. This pivotal role involves overseeing operations, budgets, and mentoring project managers to drive operational success. Candidates must possess a degree in Civil or Geotechnical Engineering and have over 10 years of experience, including at least 5 years in the construction materials testing industry. The position provides a pathway to influence team dynamics and business growth within a leading organization.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience managing engineering projects and teams.
• 5+ years experience in the construction materials testing (CMT) industry.
• Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) required.
• Ability to visit field sites as needed; valid driver’s license required.

Responsibilities

• Oversee division operations, budgets, and workload planning.
• Serve as Principal-in-Charge on major projects, providing oversight.
• Mentor project managers and technical staff.
• Manage client relationships and project deliverables.
• Track financial performance and implement corrective actions.
• Support business development initiatives.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Organization

Geotechnical design software proficiency

Project management

Education

B.S. or M.S. in Civil or Geotechnical Engineering

Job description

Principal Geotechnical Engineer/Division Manager

• Full-time
• Department: US - CMT

On November 28, 2025, AAR joined SOCOTEC, marking an exciting new chapter in our company’s history. This partnership builds on AAR’s long-standing legacy of technical excellence, integrity, and people-focused service. By joining SOCOTEC, we expand our reach and capabilities as part of a unified team of more than 1,700 experts nationwide. Together, we deliver broader, integrated solutions to better serve our materials testing and construction quality clients.

Founded in 1989, AAR has continuously provided construction quality assurance, quality control, special inspection, and materials testing services throughout Washington State. AAR is a Washington Association of Building Officials (WABO) certified independent special inspection and materials testing agency headquartered in Redmond, Washington. Our laboratories in Redmond, Lacey, and Wenatchee are accredited by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO). AAR is also certified by the State of Washington as a Minority-Owned Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE), Minority Business Enterprise (MBE), and Small Business Enterprise (SBE).

AAR, a SOCOTEC Company, is seeking an experienced Principal Geotechnical Engineer to lead a new division in Portland, Oregon as General Manager and Principal-in-Charge. This role combines technical leadership, business development, and team management to drive operational and financial success.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee division operations, budgets, and workload planning
• Serve as Principal-in-Charge on major projects, providing technical oversight and quality review
• Mentor and guide project managers and technical staffManage client relationships, contracts, and project deliverables
• Track KPIs, financial performance, and implement corrective actions as needed
• Support business development and strategic growth initiatives
• Manage construction materials testing field and lab operations during the initial growth stage

Qualifications

• B.S. or M.S. in Civil or Geotechnical Engineering.
• 10+ years of experience managing engineering projects and teams.
• 5+ years experience in the construction materials testing (CMT) industry
• Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) required.
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Proficiency in geotechnical design software.
• Ability to visit field sites as needed; valid driver’s license required.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

SOCOTEC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.