Technical Director / Associate Director: Ground Engineering

Description

Our ground engineering practice works across energy, water, nuclear decommissioning and new build, defence, aviation, ports, data centres, highways and rail. It covers feasibility and desktop studies, ground investigation, interpretation, detailed design, contract administration, technical advisory and construction supervision for geotechnical work.

Clients include National Grid, BP, Sellafield, Associated British Ports, Transport Scotland, National Highways, Transport Infrastructure Ireland, Network Rail and local authorities, along with major contractors and developers. Projects include the Great Grid Upgrade, STEP Fusion, pumped storage hydro schemes in the Scottish Highlands, Snowdonia VIP, A83 Rest and be Thankful, the M54-M6 Link Road, water schemes for several UK and Ireland utilities, the HMNB Devonport redevelopment and, overseas, Eastlink in Sweden.

The business is growing across the UK. The team is building high-performing groups in every sector through leadership.

This senior role leads the technical development of the Ground Engineering team, strengthens its capability and supports growth by building and managing strong client relationships.

The company is a global infrastructure consulting firm with over 50,000 staff, working across transport, buildings, water, new energy and the environment. It is a Fortune 500 firm, and its Professional Services business reported revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025.

Responsibilities

• Review and verify geotechnical data, analyses and design calculations, drawing on sound technical judgement and experience.
• Advise external partners at every project stage, from site selection and optioneering through design and construction.
• Manage or oversee geotechnical projects, planning schedules and coordinating work to meet objectives, programme and budget.
• Lead and support the Ground Engineering team so projects are delivered to clients and internal partners on time and to the expected quality.
• Build a strong industry presence and relationships with past, current and prospective customers to sustain a steady pipeline of work. Lead the Ground Engineering side of multi-disciplinary projects for internal and external stakeholders.
• Work with colleagues in the Ground Engineering and Tunnelling team and in the Transport, Water, Energy and Buildings and Places teams, contributing to project work and tenders.
• Mentor and develop junior team members, giving them suitable guidance and support.

Requirements

• A degree in Civil Engineering or in Engineering Geology or Geology, at 2:1 or higher, or an equivalent qualification.
• Chartered status.
• An MSc or MEng in Soil Mechanics, Geotechnical Engineering or Engineering Geology is advantageous.
• Strong knowledge of UK ground conditions and ground investigation practice.
• Clear understanding of current geotechnical design codes, standards and best practice, and openness to new methods and innovations.
• Knowledge of ground condition interpretation, parametric assessment and correlation methods for common geotechnical design problems.
• Ability to work closely with others in project delivery, win work and keep clients highly satisfied.
• Ability to build and keep strong working relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Effective networking in local, regional and national markets, promoting the company as a preferred consulting partner.
• Sound judgement in spotting opportunities and challenges and making well-informed decisions.
• Commitment to developing team members into the next generation of capable engineers and leaders.

Conditions

Open to candidates based anywhere in the UK.

Hybrid working is available, from an office, a remote location or a client site.

All newly hired employees must attend an in-person Day 1 onboarding at a company office as a condition of employment.

Equal opportunity applies, and applicant information is kept confidential under EEO guidelines.

The company is a Disability Confident Employer and will interview applicants with a disability or long-term condition who meet the minimum essential criteria for the role, through the Disability Confident Interview Scheme.

Benefits

• A wide range of compensation, benefits and well-being programmes is offered to suit employees and their families.
• Access to industry-leading technology and thinking.
• Work on transformational projects with high impact and flexible working.
• Membership of a global, publicly traded firm.