Geotechnical Project Engineer/Manager

Geotechnical Project Manager

Chicago, Illinois

An established and growing geotechnical, environmental, and construction engineering consultancy is seeking a Geotechnical Project Manager to join its Chicago-area team.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced geotechnical engineering professional looking to take the next step into leadership. The organization is experiencing significant growth and offers a clearly defined pathway into a Geotechnical Department Manager position within the next few years for the right individual.

In addition to a highly competitive compensation package, Project Managers participate in a lucrative performance-based bonus program that awards up to 10% of the revenue from projects they manage annually.

Why Consider This Opportunity?

• Clear progression path to Geotechnical Department Manager
• Highly attractive bonus structure tied directly to project performance
• Opportunity to influence and grow an established geotechnical practice
• Strong project pipeline across commercial, infrastructure, industrial, telecommunications, power, energy, and land development sectors
• Work with a well-respected multidisciplinary consulting firm that has been operating for over 30 years
• Access to modern technology, in-house laboratories, and extensive technical resources
• Collaborative and entrepreneurial culture where individual contributions are recognized
• Strong financial backing and continued investment in growth and expansion
• Opportunity to mentor junior engineers and play a key role in developing the next generation of technical talent

About the Company

Our client is a well-established consulting engineering firm specializing in geotechnical engineering, environmental consulting, and construction engineering services. Founded in 1994, the company has completed thousands of projects throughout the United States and maintains a reputation for delivering practical, data-driven engineering solutions. The organization operates multiple offices across the Midwest and nationwide, employing more than 130 professionals and holding engineering registrations in over 35 states. Their core philosophy centers around delivering "Smart. Results. Fast." solutions for clients across a diverse range of markets.

The firm is known for leveraging advanced technology, innovative engineering approaches, in-house testing capabilities, and multidisciplinary expertise to solve complex geotechnical challenges efficiently and cost-effectively.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage geotechnical engineering projects from proposal through completion
• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients and project stakeholders
• Prepare and review geotechnical reports, technical recommendations, and engineering analyses
• Oversee subsurface investigation programs and field exploration activities
• Develop project scopes, schedules, budgets, and resource allocations
• Mentor and support junior engineers and technical staff
• Coordinate with construction, environmental, and civil engineering teams
• Participate in business development activities and client relationship management
• Assist in expanding the company's presence throughout the Chicago market
• Ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Geological Engineering, or related field
• Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred or ability to obtain
• 6+ years of geotechnical engineering experience
• Previous project management experience within consulting engineering
• Strong knowledge of site investigations, foundation design, earth retention systems, slope stability, and geotechnical analysis
• Experience preparing proposals, budgets, and technical reports
• Proven client-facing and relationship management skills
• Strong communication and leadership abilities
• Desire to progress into a senior leadership and department management role

Ideal Candidate

This role is ideal for an ambitious geotechnical engineer or project manager who wants more than just project delivery responsibilities. The company is seeking an individual who is motivated by leadership, business growth, client development, and long-term career progression. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to directly impact the future direction of the geotechnical practice while positioning themselves for a future Department Manager opportunity.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive base salary
• Annual bonus program, including up to 10% of managed project revenue
• Comprehensive benefits package
• Professional development and continuing education support
• Leadership development opportunities
• Clear career advancement pathway
• Flexible and collaborative working environment

If you're interested in exploring a leadership-focused geotechnical opportunity in the Chicago market with exceptional earning potential and a genuine pathway into department management, we'd welcome a confidential conversation.