Geotechnical Principal

ECS Ltd • Hollymead, VA

1d

About The Position

The Geotechnical Principal is the highest level of technical leadership within the geotechnical practice. The role ensures the quality, performance, and strategic direction of projects and services; provides final technical authority; oversees regional technical execution; and advances business development and high-level client relationships. The Principal serves as a subject matter expert, mentor, and leader while maintaining a positive customer-service attitude and demonstrating ECS Core Values.

The role provides technical oversight across geotechnical projects, approves final technical deliverables, and oversees project performance, including complex or high-risk issues. It also supports organizational leadership, team development, business and financial performance, and the firm’s presence in the industry and community. The expected pay range for this role and location is $90,000–$110,000 per year. Final compensation depends on the specific location and individual qualifications.

Requirements

• At least 12 years of related experience.
• Bachelor’s and/or Master of Science degree in Civil Engineering, Geological Engineering, Geology, or a similar field.
• A Professional Engineer (P.E.) or Professional Geologist (P.G.) license in each state in which the employee works.
• A valid driver’s license if driving for or on behalf of an ECS subsidiary.
• Established reputation as a technical expert in geotechnical engineering.
• Strong regional or multi-regional client relationships.
• Proven success in business development and revenue growth.
• Advanced technical expertise across geotechnical engineering disciplines.
• Proven organizational-level leadership and decision-making capability.
• 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 geotechnical analysis software.
• Ability to mentor senior technical staff and future leaders.
• Strong financial and operational awareness.
• Completion of professional training programs required by the ECS Senior Technical Staff Policies and Procedures.
• U.S. military rank of E-8 or higher may qualify if the education, certification, and license requirements are also met.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical expertise and oversight across geotechnical projects.
• Perform final technical review and approval of reports, calculations, and deliverables.
• Ensure the quality, accuracy, and consistency of technical output across projects and teams.
• Oversee project performance strategically and intervene on complex or high-risk issues.
• Mentor Associate Principals, Senior Project Managers, and emerging leaders.
• Support and lead business development efforts and client relationship growth.
• Review and approve proposals, contracts, and major project decisions.
• Contribute to departmental and regional financial performance, including P&L awareness.
• Participate in staffing decisions, recruiting, and team development.
• Represent the firm as a technical expert in the industry and community.
• Participate in organizational leadership initiatives and technical committees.
• Perform other leadership and technical duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Principal