Office Principal

S&ME•Lexington, KY

2d•Onsite

About The Position

S&ME is seeking an Office Principal to lead the Lexington, Kentucky office. This role focuses on operational excellence, financial performance, and strategic growth. The Lexington office is an established and growing 40+ person operation with a multidisciplinary team supporting geotechnical, construction materials testing, environmental, and transportation projects. The office has experienced steady growth and is well-positioned for continued expansion. The Office Principal will oversee daily operations, drive financial performance, promote a culture of safety and technical excellence, collaborate with leadership, and lead talent management efforts.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in an engineering, geology, construction or an industry related field; or an equivalent combination of education and experience
At least 10 years of engineering, construction and/or consulting related experience
5 years of experience in leading, coaching, and inspiring high-performing teams, projects, and office operations
Strong business and financial acumen, with experience in budgeting, forecasting, and driving profitability
Excellent communication and relationship-building skills, with a collaborative mindset and a client-first approach
Candidates must comply with our Fleet Management, Substance Policy, and Reference Check requirements.
Only candidates with valid employment eligibility (I-9) will be considered.

Nice To Haves

A professional license or registration in your practice area in the AEC industry (if applicable) is a plus

Responsibilities

Oversee daily office operations, including staffing, scheduling, project oversight, and facility management to ensure efficient and effective workflows.
Drive financial performance by managing project profitability, developing and monitoring budgets, forecasting revenue, and ensuring accurate financial reporting.
Promote a culture of safety and technical excellence, ensuring compliance with safety protocols and delivering high-quality client service.
Collaborate with regional and corporate leadership to align local strategies with broader business goals and support cross-functional initiatives.
Lead talent management efforts, including recruitment, onboarding, performance management, mentoring, and professional development of staff.