Geotechnical Department Manager

Job DetailsJob Location: Bartow, FL 33830EXCELLENCE IS OUR FOUNDATION.  It’s our heritage—and our future. At Madrid CFTL, we don’t just inspect and test materials—we build confidence, ensure safety, and drive progress with every report, every standard upheld, and every client served.  Madrid CFTL is strongest when every team member feels respected, included, and empowered. We are a growing civil and geotechnical firm offering drilling services, construction materials testing, and laboratory analysis. Our projects are a testament to our technical excellence and dedication to service.  Location: Bartow, FL The Geotechnical Department Manager is a key leadership role at Madrid CFTL, responsible for overseeing the technical delivery, operational performance, and growth of the geotechnical engineering practice. This position ensures the highest standards of quality, safety, and compliance across subsurface investigations, laboratory testing, and engineering services while driving continuous improvement and client satisfaction. Key Responsibilities   Lead geotechnical investigations, including subsurface exploration, laboratory testing, and engineering analyses (foundations, settlement, slopes, earthwork) Review and approve reports, calculations, and recommendations; serve as Engineer of Record (EOR) as needed Oversee QA/QC for field, laboratory, and engineering activities; ensure compliance with FDOT, FHWA, AASHTO, ASTM, and USACE standards Review field data, lab results, and calculations for accuracy and consistency Manage staff (engineers, PMs, drill crews, lab personnel) and coordinate project schedules, drilling, and testing Ensure efficient use of personnel, equipment, and maintain calibration/certifications Serve as primary technical contact for clients; support proposals, scopes, and fee development Build and maintain relationships with agencies, consultants, and contractors; support business growth Mentor junior staff and promote technical excellence; lead training aligned with industry standards Maintain QA manuals and SOPs; support audits, track performance, and drive continuous improvement Qualifications  Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering (Masters or PhD preferred in Geotechnical Engineering).  8+ years of geotechnical engineering experience with progressive leadership responsibilities.  Professional Engineer (PE) license required (Florida preferred or ability to obtain a FL PE within 6 months of employment).  strong working knowledge of:  DOT standards and procedures  AASHTO and ASTM testing and design methods  Experience managing drilling operations and laboratory testing programs.  Proven leadership and team management experience.  Strong communication and client-facing skills.  Experience with geotechnical reporting, analysis software, and data management systems.  Highly organized with strong attention to detail and quality.  Preferred Qualifications Experience with FDOT projects  Background in both geotechnical engineering and CMT integration  Experience with design-build or on-call contracts  Familiarity with laboratory accreditation programs (AASHTO R18, etc.)   What We Offer Comprehensive Health Benefits – We offer comprehensive coverage for employee’s medical needs. Your well-being is a top priority. Career Growth – As a growing firm, we offer real opportunities for advancement and professional development. Dynamic Work Environment – Be part of a team that’s innovating and solving real-world infrastructure challenges. Inclusive Culture – We value every voice. Our collaborative approach drives smarter solutions and better outcomes. Commitment to Quality – We uphold the highest industry standards in testing and reporting, delivering reliable results our clients trust.   Join Madrid CFTL and be part of a team where quality, safety, and performance aren’t just priorities—they’re who we are.