Principal Geotechnical Engineer (Special Project Group)

ECS Ltd•Pittsburgh, PA

About The Position

The Geotechnical Principal provides the highest level of technical leadership within the geotechnical practice, ensuring the overall quality, performance, and strategic direction of projects and services. The role serves as final technical authority, oversees regional technical execution, and leads business development and high-level client relationships. The Principal acts as a subject matter expert, mentor, and organizational leader, maintaining a positive customer service attitude and demonstrating ECS Core Values. The role includes technical oversight and final review of project deliverables, strategic oversight of project performance, leadership and mentoring of senior staff, business development, client relationship growth, and contribution to regional and departmental financial performance. The Principal also participates in staffing, recruiting, organizational leadership initiatives, technical committees, and industry representation.

Requirements

12 years of related experience.
Bachelor and/or Master of Science 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 any 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 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 geotechnical analysis software.
Ability to mentor senior technical staff and future leaders.
Strong financial and operational awareness.
Completion of professional training programs as required in the ECS Senior Technical Staff Policies and Procedures.
US military rank E-8 or higher may qualify if the education, certification, and license requirements are also met.

Responsibilities

Provides technical expertise and oversight across geotechnical projects.
Performs final technical review and approval of reports, calculations, and deliverables.
Ensures quality, accuracy, and consistency of technical output across projects and teams.
Oversees project performance at a strategic level and intervenes on complex or high-risk issues.
Mentors Associate Principals, Senior Project Managers, and emerging leaders.
Supports and leads business development efforts and client relationship growth.
Reviews and approves proposals, contracts, and major project decisions.
Contributes to departmental and regional financial performance, including P&L awareness.
Participates in staffing decisions, recruiting, and team development.
Represents the firm as a technical expert in the industry and community.
Participates in organizational leadership initiatives and technical committees.
Performs other leadership and technical duties as assigned.