Technical Director / Associate Director: Ground Engineering

Description

The Ground Engineering Practice works across energy, water, nuclear (decommissioning and new build), defence, aviation, ports, data centres, highways and rail.

Services cover 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, M54-M6 Link Road, water schemes for UK and Ireland utilities, the HMNB Devonport redevelopment and Eastlink in Sweden.

The business is growing across the UK, and the team is building high-performing groups through strong leadership.

The role is open to candidates based anywhere in the UK.

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

The company is a global infrastructure consulting firm with over 50,000 staff. Its Professional Services business reported revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025, and the company is a Fortune 500 firm.

Responsibilities

• Oversee input, peer review and checking of geotechnical data, analyses and design calculations, applying sound technical judgement and experience.
• Advise external partners at every project stage, from site selection and optioneering through design to 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 reach clients and internal partners on time and to quality expectations.
• Keep a strong industry profile and build relationships with past, current and prospective customers to sustain a steady pipeline of work.
• Take the Ground Engineering lead on multi-disciplinary projects for internal and external stakeholders.
• Work with colleagues in Ground Engineering and Tunnelling and in Transport, Water, Energy and Buildings and Places to provide input to project work and tenders.
• Mentor and develop junior team members, giving them suitable guidance and support.

Requirements

• A degree in Civil Engineering or Engineering Geology/Geology with a 2:1 classification (or equivalent) or higher.
• 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.
• A clear understanding of current geotechnical design codes, standards and best practice, with openness to new methods and innovation.
• Knowledge of typical ground interpretation, parametric assessment and correlation methods for common geotechnical design problems.
• Ability to work closely on project delivery, help win work and keep clients highly satisfied.
• Ability to build and maintain strong working relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Strong networking across local, regional and national markets to position the company as a preferred consulting partner.
• Good judgement in spotting opportunities and challenges and making sound decisions.
• A commitment to developing team members into the next generation of engineers and leaders.

Conditions

Hybrid working is offered, from a company office, remotely or at a client site.

All new hires must attend an in-person Day 1 onboarding at a company office as a condition of employment.

The company is an Equal Opportunity and Disability Confident employer, keeps applicant information confidential under EEO guidelines, and offers an interview to disabled applicants or those with a long-term condition who meet the essential criteria.

Benefits

• Access to industry-leading technology and thinking.
• Transformational work with big impact and flexibility.
• Compensation, benefits and well-being programmes for employees and their families.
• Being part of a global, publicly traded firm.