Principal Geotechnical Engineer/Division Manager

Company Description

On November 28, 2025, AAR joined SOCOTEC, marking an exciting new chapter in our company’s history. This partnership builds on AAR’s long-standing legacy of technical excellence, integrity, and people-focused service. By joining SOCOTEC, we expand our reach and capabilities as part of a unified team of more than 1,700 experts nationwide. Together, we deliver broader, integrated solutions to better serve our materials testing and construction quality clients.

Founded in 1989, AAR has continuously provided construction quality assurance, quality control, special inspection, and materials testing services throughout Washington State. AAR is a Washington Association of Building Officials (WABO) certified independent special inspection and materials testing agency headquartered in Redmond, Washington. Our laboratories in Redmond, Lacey, and Wenatchee are accredited by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO). AAR is also certified by the State of Washington as a Minority-Owned Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE), Minority Business Enterprise (MBE), and Small Business Enterprise (SBE).

Job Description

AAR, a SOCOTEC Company, is seeking an experienced Principal Geotechnical Engineer to lead a new division in Portland, Oregon as General Manager and Principal-in-Charge. This role combines technical leadership, business development, and team management to drive operational and financial success.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee division operations, budgets, and workload planning
• Serve as Principal-in-Charge on major projects, providing technical oversight and quality review
• Mentor and guide project managers and technical staff
• Manage client relationships, contracts, and project deliverables
• Track KPIs, financial performance, and implement corrective actions as needed
• Support business development and strategic growth initiatives
• Manage construction materials testing field and lab operations during the initial growth stage

Qualifications

• B.S. or M.S. in Civil or Geotechnical Engineering.
• 10+ years of experience managing engineering projects and teams.
• 5+ years experience in the construction materials testing (CMT) industry
• Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) required.
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Proficiency in geotechnical design software.
• Ability to visit field sites as needed; valid driver’s license required.

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

SOCOTEC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.