Construction Materials Principal Engineer

ECS Ltd•Hollymead, VA

About The Position

ECS Limited is seeking an experienced Construction Materials Testing (CMT) Principal Engineer to join its Charlottesville field services team. The role provides enterprise-level technical expertise and oversight across CMT projects, ensuring work meets quality standards and helping clients and project teams achieve goals and deadlines from proposal through final review. The Principal Engineer also contributes to business development, client relationships, project and financial performance, workforce planning, staff mentorship, and organizational leadership. The role may support other departments and service lines and represent ECS as a technical expert in the industry and community. ECS supports career advancement through professional training programs, with potential opportunities for advanced certifications and reviewer status. The expected pay range is $95,000–$115,000 per year; final compensation depends on location and individual qualifications.

Requirements

At least 12 years of related experience with a professional engineering or geology license per ECS Senior Technical Staff Policies and Procedures, or 16 years of related experience with certifications per those policies and procedures.
High school diploma or GED.
Maintain licenses and/or certifications as necessary for work performed or managed, in accordance with ECS Senior Technical Staff Policies and Procedures.
A valid driver's license is required if driving for or on behalf of an ECS subsidiary.
Established reputation as a technical expert in construction materials testing.
Strong regional or multi-regional client relationships.
Proven success in business development and revenue growth.
Advanced technical expertise across construction materials testing disciplines.
Proven leadership and decision-making capability at an organizational level.
Strong business development and client relationship skills.
Extensive experience in project management, risk management, and consulting.
Ability to perform and sign as the final technical reviewer of reports and calculations.
Strong understanding of regional geologic conditions and industry challenges.
Proficiency with advanced analysis software.
Ability to mentor senior technical staff and future leaders.
Strong financial and operational awareness.
Completion of professional training programs required by ECS Senior Technical Staff Policies and Procedures.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, Construction Engineering and Management, Materials Science Engineering, Architectural Engineering, or Geology.
US Military rank of E-8 or higher, provided the candidate also meets the stated education, certification, and licensing requirements.

Responsibilities

Provides enterprise-level technical expertise and oversight across CMT projects.
Performs final technical review and approval of reports, calculations, and deliverables.
Ensures technical quality, consistency, and adherence to standards across projects and teams.
Oversees project performance and supports resolution of complex or high-risk issues.
Mentors Associate Principals, Senior Project Managers, and technical staff.
Leads business development efforts and expands client relationships.
Prepares and reviews proposals, contracts, and major project decisions.
Supports department and office financial performance, including P&L awareness.
Assists with staffing decisions and workforce planning.
Represents ECS as a technical expert in the industry and community.
Participates in leadership activities, including review committees and internal governance.
Provides cross-functional support across departments and service lines.