Geotechnical Laboratory Manager; Engineer

Overview

Colliers Engineering & Design is seeking a motivated and experienced Geotechnical Laboratory Manager to join our Materials Testing group in Totowa, NJ. In this role, you will lead a high volume geotechnical and construction materials testing laboratory, guide a team of skilled technicians and engineers, and contribute to complex soil and rock testing programs. You will also support business development efforts by strengthening client relationships and identifying growth opportunities, while overseeing key aspects of budgeting, forecasting, and operational financial performance.

We’re looking for an energetic, solutions driven leader with strong technical expertise and exceptional management skills.

• Under the general guidance of the Laboratory Director, ensure efficient daily and long-term management of the Geotechnical and Construction Material Laboratory operations including supervising staff, training, maintenance of laboratory equipment, quality assurance, safety and productivity of the laboratory.
• Project management including proposals, meeting revenue/profit targets, budget control, staffing, project testing coordination, lookahead coordination and review/approval of invoices.
• Work with the Laboratory Director to provide business development with existing and new clients. Business development experience is preferred but not required.
• Manage, oversee, perform testing and submit testing results for rock, advanced, specialized and research testing which consists of triaxial (UC, UU, CU, CD), direct shear, direct simple shear (DSS), cyclic DSS and triaxial, permeability, special mix testing (soil, cement, bentonite, etc.) and rock (slake, uniaxial, triaxial, shear).
• Generate, calculate and compile laboratory testing reports and issue to clients and supervise others performing the same.
• Maintain and organize laboratory workload to meet given deadlines and proactively assess bottlenecks in workflows and processes to ensure efficient laboratory operations.
• Experience with MS Excel to manage and develop lab testing worksheets is essential.
• Oversee overall lab testing procedures including setup, application of loads, instrumentation, data acquisition, analyses and cleanup.
• Enter lab units and billing information weekly.
• Oversee and provide training for existing and entry-level staff and maintain training documentation to ensure that all testing methods are performed in a safe and reliable manner.
• Identify needs and perform the required research for new testing procedures.
• Maintain the Quality Management System (QMS) and ensure testing is in accordance with AASHTO Re:
  
  Source and US Army Corps accreditation.
• Oversee equipment calibrations, maintenance, upgrades, procurement and repairs.
• Actively involved in the recruitment process for new personnel.
• Internal and external communication with outside clients and CED staff.
• Business development with existing and new clients.
• Mechanically inclined to help with equipment troubleshooting and repairs is preferred.
• Ensure that the lab is clean, organized and adequately stocked including supply inventory, labeling and record keeping procedures.
• Oversee lab safety and SOPs including specimen and chemical handling, disposal and storage procedures.
• Communicate effectively and efficiently with contractors, clients and team members.
• Work Environment may include moderate to loud noise, dusty conditions, and require standing for extensive periods. Occasionally lifting and carrying objects weighing up to 40 lbs. Requires corrected vision, color perception and hearing to normal range.
• Weekend and overtime work is required as needed based on laboratory workload; some limited overnight and interstate travel may be required.
• Perform other work-related duties as assigned.

• BA/BS in a related discipline (BS in civil engineering preferred) or equivalent experience.
• Master’s degree or higher in a relevant area is preferred but not required.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license is preferred but not required.
• 5-10 years’ experience in leading and motivating a laboratory or technical group.
• ACI and NICET certifications are preferred. If you do not have the required…