Geotechnical Project Manager (San Jose)

Job Title

Geotechnical Engineering Project Manager

Salary

$90,000 - $120,000 (base) + performance incentives / bonus potential

Job Description

We are seeking a seasoned and dynamic Geotechnical Project Manager to partner with a well-established engineering / consulting firm in the Bay Area. Reporting to senior leadership, this role entails full ownership of geotechnical projects from proposal through execution and close-out. The ideal candidate combines strong technical geotechnical engineering expertise with proven project management, commercial acumen, client relationship skills, and leadership capabilities.

The firm maintains a strong regional presence, this role is based in Sunnyvale, CA and supports projects across the entire Nor-Cal area. There is strong potential for the right individual to step into the C-Suite over time, with a clear succession path to executive leadership.

Responsibilities

Lead and manage multiple geotechnical projects (site investigations, foundation design, earth retention, slope stability, ground improvement, etc.) through all phases : planning, design, bidding, execution, and close-out

Develop scope, budgets, schedules, and risk plans; track and manage project finances, forecasts, and change orders

Serve as principal client interface : build and maintain relationships, manage expectations, and deliver exceptional service

Oversee the technical work : review subsurface investigation plans, data interpretation, geotechnical analyses, design calculations, technical reports, specifications, and drawings

Coordinate field operations : mobilization, drilling, sampling, testing, logging, ground monitoring, field instrumentation, and site supervision

Manage subcontractors, sub-consultants (e.g. labs, drilling firms), and vendors

Ensure quality assurance / quality control (QA / QC) on deliverables; check technical work of junior staff

Monitor project schedules; identify and mitigate technical, contractual, safety, or logistical risks

Contribute to business development : lead proposal efforts, scope development, client presentations, and pursuit strategy

Mentor, grow, and lead a project team of geotechnical engineers, technicians, and support staff

Interface with other disciplines (civil, structural, environmental) and coordinate integrated project delivery

Provide periodic status reporting to senior leadership, including progress, financials, risk status, resource needs

Participate in strategic planning, contribute to operational improvements, processes, and potentially assume executive responsibilities over time

Benefits

Competitive compensation with performance bonus / incentive opportunities

Medical, dental, vision insurance

Retirement plan (e.g. 401(k) with company match)

Paid time off (vacation, sick leave, holidays)

Flexible / hybrid work options (depending on project requirements)

Professional development support (licensure, conference attendance, continuing education)

Company-paid professional memberships and certifications

Travel / field work reimbursement

Career advancement and leadership development programs

Succession path to executive leadership (e.g. VP, CTO, or other C-Suite role)

Why Join

You will join a technically respected, growing engineering firm with a solid client base and reputation in the region

The firm values innovation, quality, and integrity, and gives autonomy to proven performers

You will have direct influence over project selection, strategy, and execution

This role offers a unique opportunity for career trajectory : a well-defined path toward senior executive leadership for high performers

You'll be exposed to diverse and technically challenging geotechnical projects across infrastructure, development, energy, and transportation sectors

You'll lead and shape a high-caliber geotechnical team and help set the technical direction and culture

The firm supports work-life balance, invests in your growth, and fosters collaboration across disciplines