Project Engineer - Geotechnical

Project Engineer - Geotechnical

Location: Columbia, South Carolina

Report To: Department Manager

Status: Full-Time, Exempt

Overview of Bunnell-Lammons Engineering, Inc.

At Bunnell-Lammons Engineering (BLE), our core principles shape everything we do. We put people first, prioritizing our clients, employees, and community in every decision. We believe trust is earned through honesty, dependability, and delivering on our promises. Clear, timely communication keeps our clients and partners informed, while a commitment to excellence drives us to produce work that consistently sets the standard in our industry. Most importantly, we honor every commitment we make and believe that no challenge is too complex when the right people work together. These values define who we are, how we operate, and the kind of team we continue to build.

Position Overview

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Project Engineer to join our dynamic team. This pivotal role will be responsible for the successful planning, execution, and closure of a wide range of environmental, geotechnical, and civil engineering projects. The ideal candidate will possess a strong technical background, demonstrated leadership abilities, and a commitment to delivering high-quality solutions for our diverse client base. This position requires hands-on project engineering experience and a proven track record in managing complex engineering assignments from conception through completion.

Our Geotechnical Group focuses on serving projects for our local municipal, industrial, residential, and commercial clients. These projects span a multitude of geotechnical support roles, from geotechnical exploration to geotechnical support during construction.

Minimum Job Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in civil engineering, construction management, or related field
• Licensed Professional Engineering (PE) in South Carolina or ability to obtain reciprocity where firm operates.
• Minimum 5-12 years of experience in geotechnical engineering and/or materials testing with 3+ years in a supervisory or management role
• Knowledge of geotechnical design and construction requirements.
• Knowledge of geosynthetics

Skills & Competencies

• Apply advanced knowledge of civil and geotechnical engineering principles to project design, analysis, and problem-solving.
• Conduct technical analyses, calculations, and design for various engineering projects, including but not limited to site development, foundation design, retaining walls, earthwork, and pavements.
• Prepare detailed engineering reports, specifications, drawings, and other project documentation.
• Utilize engineering software and tools for design, modeling, and data analysis (e.g., AutoCAD, Civil 3D, GeoStudio, gINT, Tablogs).
• Perform site investigations, field inspections, and data collection to support project objectives.
• Interpret and apply relevant local, state, and federal regulations, codes, and industry standards (e.g. ASTM, IBC).

Key Responsibilities

Team Leadership and Development

• Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior engineers, designers, and field staff.
• Delegate tasks effectively and oversee the work of project team members to ensure accuracy and adherence to project requirements.
• Foster a collaborative and supportive team environment that encourages professional growth and knowledge sharing.
• Conduct performance feedback sessions and contribute to the professional development of team members.
• Lead geotechnical investigations including site reconnaissance, drilling oversight, sampling, and field data collection. Assign soils laboratory testing.

Client Relationship Management:

• Serve as a primary point of contact for clients, maintaining strong professional relationships throughout the project lifecycle.
• Effectively communicate project updates, technical findings, challenges, and solutions to clients in a clear and concise manner.
• Address client inquiries and concerns promptly and professionally, ensuring high levels of client satisfaction.
• Identify opportunities for repeat business and cultivate long-term client partnerships.

Quality Control and Assurance

• Implement and enforce quality control procedures to ensure all project deliverables meet technical standards, and client expectations.
• Conduct thorough reviews of engineering designs, calculations, reports, and drawings.
• Identify and mitigate potential quality issues proactively.
• Participate in internal and external audits to ensure compliance with quality management systems.

Project Planning and Scheduling

• Develop comprehensive project plans, including scope definition, objectives, deliverables, timelines, and resource allocation.
• Create and manage project schedules using appropriate scheduling tools
• Monitor project progress against established timelines and milestones, making adjustments as needed.
• Forecast resource needs and ensure optimal utilization of personnel and equipment.

Risk Management and Compliance

• Identify potential project risks (technical, financial, regulatory, safety) and develop mitigation strategies.
• Stay abreast of changes in regulations and industry best practices.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Collaborate effectively with internal departments to ensure integrated project delivery.
• Coordinate with external stakeholders, such as owners, contractors, subcontractors, and vendors.
• Participate in interdisciplinary project meetings and contribute to holistic problem-solving.

Contracts and Vendor Management

• Assist in the preparation of proposals, scopes of work, and contract documents.
• Review and understand project contracts, ensuring compliance with terms and conditions.
• Manage and oversee the performance of subcontractors and vendors, ensuring adherence to contractual obligations and quality standards.
• Evaluate vendor proposals and recommend selections based on technical capabilities and cost-effectiveness.

Business Development

• Identify and pursue new project opportunities through existing client relationships and networking.
• Contribute to the preparation of proposals and presentations to secure new business.
• Represent the firm at industry events, conferences, and professional organizations.
• Stay informed about market trends and clients need to identify areas for growth.

Performance Analytics

• Monitor project financial performance, including tracking budgets, expenses, and profitability.
• Analyze project metrics to identify areas for improvement in efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and quality.
• Prepare regular project status reports for management, including financial summaries and performance indicators.
• Conduct post-project reviews to capture lessons learned and apply them to future projects.

Why Join Us?

• Industry-leading reputation with a diverse and growing project portfolio.
• Collaborative, supportive work environment where your leadership makes a visible impact.
• Opportunities for professional growth and advancement within a dynamic, expanding organization.

Benefits

• Medical/Vision/Dental
• 401(K) with partial company matching.
• Life Insurance
• Short/long term disability
• Paid vacation
• Paid sick leave.
• Eight (8) paid holidays.
• Educational re-imbursement programs
• Vehicle allowance (conditions apply)