Chief Administrative Officer

Chief Administrative Officer

Requisition Number:

S&ME is seeking a Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) to be a key member of our executive leadership team, responsible for driving operational excellence across a growing AEC professional services organization. This role partners closely with the President/CEO and executive leaders to align people, processes, technology, and governance with the firm's strategic vision. The CAO provides enterprise-wide oversight of administrative operations, including Human Resources, Information Technology, Legal/Risk, Facilities, Fleet, and Procurement, ensuring efficiency, compliance, and long-term sustainability.

This is a highly strategic, hands-on leadership role for an experienced AEC executive who understands how to support technical professionals, scale operations, and build infrastructure that enables project delivery and profitable growth.

What You Will Do:

• Strategic Leadership: Collaborate with executive leadership to define organizational goals, set strategies, and implement annual operational plans. Ensure compliance with all legal, regulatory, and ethical standards.
• Operational Oversight: Direct key administrative functions, including Human Resources, Information Technology, Facilities, Procurement, and Fleet Management. Streamline processes, monitor KPIs, and drive efficiency across the organization.
• Human Resources Leadership: Build a strong HR infrastructure to support recruitment, retention, development, and competitive total rewards. Foster an environment where talent can thrive.
• Technology Strategy: Set and execute S&ME's technology vision, ensuring systems evolve to improve productivity, collaboration, and client experience.
• Legal, Risk, & Compliance: Oversee legal strategy in collaboration with Chief Counsel regarding contracts, regulatory compliance, and enterprise risk management. Provide counsel on complex business decisions as needed.
• Fleet & Facilities Management: Ensure these areas support operational goals, cost control, risk mitigation, and sustainability. Oversee vendor relationships, space utilization, and asset management.
• Team Development: Lead, mentor, and grow high-performing teams, building a collaborative and innovative workplace culture.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor's degree required;
  Master's degree in Business Administration, Human Resources, or related field preferred.
• Experience:
  • 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in strategic planning, administration, and executive roles with oversight in either HR, Fleet, Facilities, IT, and/or Legal departments.
  • 7+ years of experience in Professional Services, with the engineering or construction industry preferred
• Location & Availability: Ability to be based in the Raleigh, NC area with regular in-person presence to support executive collaboration, team leadership, and strategic initiatives
• Key Competencies:
  • Strategic, decisive leader with strong business and financial acumen
  • Experience partnering closely with a CFO on budgeting and forecasting
  • Proven ability to lead HR, IT, and operational functions at scale
  • Strong understanding of legal, compliance, and risk considerations in professional services environments
  • Effective cross-functional communicator who leads through influence and trust

We Are S&ME:

At S&ME, we're committed to your growth, professionally and personally. With over 50 years of experience delivering innovative solutions in geotechnical, civil, environmental, and construction materials engineering, we've built a strong foundation for long-term careers. Our team of over 1,000 employee-owners across 10+ states collaborates to create a meaningful impact on our clients and communities. When you join S&ME, you become part of a collaborative, honest, and people-focused culture that invests in your success.

We offer exciting project opportunities, ongoing training, and a comprehensive benefits package to support you and your family. This is more than a job; it's a place to grow, thrive, and build a future.

What We Offer:

Comprehensive Health & Wellness Programs

• Medical, Dental & Vision Plans with HSA and FSA options
• Wellness Program offering $50 off per month on 2027 premiums
• Pet Insurance for your furry family members

Ownership & Financial Perks

• 100% Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) with a 5% company contribution
• 401(k) Retirement Plan to help you plan ahead
• Term Life & Long-Term Care Coverage - available Spring 2026

Work-Life Balance & Career Development

• Paid Holidays, PTO with rollover options, and Paid Maternity & Paternity Leave
• Mentorship & Career Development Programs, Tuition Reimbursement, and Credential Incentive Program
• Employee Recognition Program, $2,000 Referral Bonuses, and a company vehicle & fuel card for project-based roles

If you're passionate about making an impact and want to work with a firm committed to our employees and providing quality service to our clients, we'd love to hear from you!

This full-time role offers competitive pay based on experience. Candidates must comply with…