Geotechnical Principal

Principal Geotechnical Engineer

ECS Southwest is seeking a Principal Geotechnical Engineer to lead our technical operations and market expansion across Texas markets, including but not limited to El Paso, Lubbock, Amarillo, and Midland. This role is a strategic leadership position designed for a senior professional to serve as the primary technical authority for infrastructure, vertical construction, and private development projects. You will play a critical role in building our local presence in the West Texas region while ensuring technical excellence across a diverse portfolio of commercial, industrial, and municipal projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the final technical reviewer for all geotechnical reports, construction materials testing documents, and engineering recommendations across Texas markets, including but not limited to El Paso, Lubbock, Amarillo, and Midland.
• Act as the lead geotechnical expert on various concurrent projects, ranging from high-rise residential buildings to large-scale industrial site developments.
• Direct resource allocation and project staffing to ensure all technical deliverables meet internal quality standards and client timelines.
• Provide specialized technical recommendations for complex foundation systems, soil stabilization, and site characterization for vertical construction.
• Mentor and train a growing team of 4 to 6 engineers and field technicians to ensure consistent technical execution and professional advancement.
• Ensure 100% project compliance with local building codes, municipal requirements, and industry standards.
• Drive business development and office growth by establishing relationships with developers, architects, and municipal agencies, while continuing our reputation for excellence with established customers.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications

• 12 or more years of experience in geotechnical engineering and construction materials testing, with a focus on private sector vertical construction.
• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Civil Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, or a related field.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license is required, with the ability to obtain Texas licensure through reciprocity within 3 months.
• Documented experience as a senior technical reviewer with the authority to sign and seal engineering reports.
• Proven track record in business development and client relationship management within the Texas or Southwest regional markets.
• Valid driver's license for travel to project sites and client development meetings.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Geotechnical Engineering.
• 5 or more years of experience specifically managing projects for high-rise structures and complex commercial site developments.
• Previous experience in an office leadership or "start-up" branch environment, helping to build a local team and client base.

What Sets This Role Apart

• Influence across both project and operational levels
• Leadership opportunities in technical mentoring and training
• High degree of autonomy with enterprise-level visibility
• Deep involvement in client development and community engagement

About Us

ECS Group of Companies (ECS) was founded in 1988 with the goal to raise the standards of professional engineering consulting. Today, we are a leader in geotechnical, construction materials, environmental, and facilities consulting services. We are employee-owned with more than 3,000 employees in 100+ offices and testing facilities coast to coast. ECS is currently ranked #60 in Engineering News-Record's Top 500 Design Firms (April 2026), #148 in Engineering News-Record's Top 200 Environmental Firms (October 2025) and #50 in Zweig Group's Hot Firm List (May 2025). For additional information about ECS, visit:

ECS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. To learn more, click here.