Group Leader- Materials Testing/Inspection

Verdantas•Lake Elsinore, CA

19h•Hybrid

About The Position

Verdantas is seeking a Group Leader for Testing & Inspection (T&I) to lead operations, drive growth, and mentor staff. This role combines operational leadership, business development, and technical expertise to ensure quality, expand market reach, and develop the T&I team. The Group Leader will be responsible for the day-to-day management of the department, including field operations, lab throughput, scheduling, quality control, and client engagement, while also identifying new business opportunities and representing Verdantas in the industry. The position emphasizes people development, sustainability, and client satisfaction, aiming to make Verdantas the preferred choice for testing and inspection services.

Requirements

Minimum of 10+ years of experience in construction materials testing.
At least 3–5 years in a leadership or management role.
Hands-on fluency with construction materials testing and special inspection scopes.
Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
Proven track record in operational management and business development in the A/E industry.
Strong understanding of industry standards and regulations related to construction materials testing.
Ability to create, implement, and execute a strategic growth plan.
Experience managing lab accreditation programs (AASHTO, USACE, AMRL, DSA, OSHPD).
Familiarity with Verdantas end markets: buildings, power, infrastructure, transportation, and government.

Nice To Haves

Relevant certifications, current or prior — ACI, NICET, Caltrans ICC, AWS/CWI, or ASNT credentials.
California Registered Civil Engineer licensure.

Responsibilities

Run the day-to-day of the T&I department — field ops, lab throughput, scheduling, and quality oversight.
Develop and implement quality control procedures to ensure the accuracy and reliability of all testing results.
Monitor and report on departmental performance metrics; maintain strong knowledge of sales pipeline and hard backlog.
Monitor maintenance of equipment and tools used for testing, ensuring they are properly calibrated and functioning correctly.
Oversee lab Quality Management and accreditations (AASHTO, Caltrans, AMRL, CCRL, DSA, OSHPD) and ensure compliance.
Manage resource allocation.
Oversee subcontractor relationships, compliance and AP approvals, ensuring proper credentials and procedure are implemented.
Identify and pursue new business opportunities; build and maintain relationships with clients, stakeholders, and industry partners.
Lead proposal development and contract negotiations.
Represent Verdantas at industry conferences, seminars, and networking events.
Ensure Verdantas is the first call for T&I services.
Develop and maintain relationships with clients and partners to promote the services of the T&I department.
Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior staff and project teams.
Foster a culture of continuous learning and professional development.
Serve as the primary point of contact for complex field situations.
Stay current with industry/emerging trends, regulations, and best practices, and communicate them to the team.
Support and shape the company's people-focused culture by promoting inclusivity, diversity, and collaboration.
Provide senior review and quality control of daily and final reports.
Manage special projects that involve key sustaining clients or new clients.