Office Principal

S&ME•Cincinnati, OH

10d•Onsite

About The Position

S&ME is seeking an Office Principal to lead the Cincinnati, Ohio office. This role focuses on operational excellence, financial performance, and strategic growth within the civil engineering and consulting industry. The Office Principal will lead an established and growing 30+ person operation with a multidisciplinary team supporting geotechnical, construction materials testing, and environmental projects. Responsibilities include overseeing all aspects of office operations, from project delivery and client satisfaction to staff and business development, ensuring alignment with corporate goals and regional strategies. The leadership in this role will directly impact the success of the Cincinnati office by fostering a culture of safety, collaboration, and innovation, while driving profitability and expanding market presence. This role is essential in shaping the office's future and reinforcing its value as a key contributor to the company's overall success.

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.
At least 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.