Principal Geotechnical Engineer / Engineering Geologist

Job Description

About the Company Douglas Partners Pty Ltd is an industry-leading geotechnical, environmental and groundwater consulting firm employing over 600 people throughout 19 offices across Australia. Visit our website to learn more at What the role is The prospective candidate will lead and oversee geotechnical engineering projects, providing expert advice and ensuring the delivery of high-quality solutions for complex geotechnical challenges. This senior role requires technical expertise, leadership skills and the ability to manage both technical and commercial aspects of geotechnical projects, from initial investigation through to project delivery. Key duties and responsibilities Client Relationship Management: Build and Maintain Relationships: Cultivate strong relationships with existing clients, key stakeholders and prospective new clients (including via tenders opportunities), ensuring repeat business and long-term partnerships. Client Engagement: Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, addressing their needs and expectations and providing strategic advice on geotechnical matters. Networking: Maintain a diverse professional network to build on the firm’s current client base. Actively participate in industry events, conferences and seminars to build the firm's presence and attract new clients. Contribute to R&D projects: Participate in research and development initiatives to build expertise in both existing and emerging fields. Budgets for these projects may be allocated by the Douglas Group Board, ensuring necessary resources are available for innovation and progress. Project Oversight and Delivery: Health and Safety: Strong commitment to health and safety, and ensure that the company’s occupational health and safety and environmental procedures are applied to each project. Ensure Client Satisfaction: Maintain oversight of the delivery of geotechnical projects, ensuring that the work meets client specifications, regulatory requirements and is delivered on time, within budget in accordance with Company expectations. Project Development: Oversee the scoping, design and execution of geotechnical aspects of projects, ensuring successful outcomes and facilitating future business opportunities. Mentorship & Team Management: Lead, mentor and develop junior and mid-level geotechnical engineers, fostering a culture of learning, collaboration and technical excellence to build expertise. Technical Reporting: Prepare and review geotechnical reports, feasibility studies and technical proposals, ensuring compliance with Australian standards, regulations and best practices. Analysis and Groundworks: Analyse a range of geotechnical problems, e.g. shallow and deep foundations, cut-and-cover tunnel structures, embankments, highway pavements, dams, retaining structures, slope stability, soil improvement, and seismic designs, and prepare geotechnical reports. Conduct in-depth assessments of soil, rock, and groundwater properties to determine their impact on construction and infrastructure projects. Perform geotechnical modelling, slope stability analyses, and foundation design evaluations. Stay updated with the latest advancements and innovation in geotechnical engineering practices, and industry trends to continually improve and enhance project outcomes. Risk Management: Identify and manage geotechnical risks, ensuring solutions meet the project’s technical, regulatory and safety requirements. Quality Assurance: Ensure all work complies with relevant standards, codes of practice and company procedures, maintaining high levels of quality and compliance. About You Qualifications: A degree in Geotechnical Engineering, Engineering Geology, or a related discipline (Masters or higher preferred). Chartered (CPEng) status with Engineers Australia or a Registered Professional Geologist (RPGeo) with the Australian Institute of Geoscientists. A Registered Professional Engineer with the NSW Design and Building Practitioners Scheme 2021 and a TfNSW Accredited Slope Assessor or eligibility to obtain them. Minimum 10-15 years experience in geotechnical engineering, with a proven track record in leading complex projects. Extensive experience in geotechnical analysis and design, as well as the management of geotechnical investigations. In-depth knowledge of Australian geotechnical standards, regulations, and environmental considerations. Skills: Strong technical and analytical skills, with the ability to solve complex geotechnical engineering problems. Excellent leadership, communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to manage teams and engage with clients effectively. Proficiency in geotechnical software (e.g., PLAXIS, GeoStudio, or similar) and Microsoft Office Suite. Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities effectively. Strong report writing and technical documentation skills. Ability to develop innovative and cost-effective geotechnical solutions. Benefits of Working for Douglas Partners: Incentive bonus Flexible work arrangements Ongoing training and career development Enhanced leave benefits (including ability to purchase leave) Employee Assistance Program for Health & Wellbeing Discount retail offers via Douglas Good Deals Opportunities to work in various locations A work culture that is empowering, fun and inclusive. To Apply: If this position sounds like you, we would like to hear from you. Please submit a resume and brief covering letter demonstrating your qualifications, experience and career achievements for consideration. Please note that only people with Australian work rights will be considered. #J-18808-Ljbffr