Geotechnical Unit Manager

Description

About the Role

Join one of the most diverse and innovative engineering design team with multiple specialties within the transportation sector. The Port Authority's airports, Port facilities, ferries, vehicular and rail tunnels, bridges, bus terminals and rail transportation systems are important transportation links in the region. The Geotechnical Unit within the Structural Engineering discipline is part of a multi-discipline group of engineers and other design professionals that form the Engineering Department of the Agency. The Geotechnical Unit of the Engineering Department Design Division provides subject matter expert engineering design and audit services for all Port Authority projects. Analysis and design services include preparation of preliminary and final designs, as well as construction support of various subgrade elements, including deep foundations, retaining walls, subgrade support, waterfront design, tunnels and shafts, as well as subject matter expert evaluations of geotechnical issues, development of subsurface investigation programs, pile load testing, geotechnical constructability evaluations, as well as construction support of geotechnical design considerations for all Port Authority facilities.

• Oversee all geotechnical engineering activities, ensuring high-quality, innovative, sustainable, resilient and cost-effective designs that comply with industry codes, standards, relevant guidelines and best practices.
• Develop, implement, and maintain geotechnical engineering standards, design guidelines, and technical specifications to ensure consistency and regulatory compliance across projects.
• Serve as the primary geotechnical engineering subject matter expert for the Engineering Department and communicate complex geotechnical concepts to senior executives, regulatory agencies, and clients, providing expert guidance and recommendations.
• Direct the planning, analysis, design, and construction of geotechnical solutions for large-scale transportation infrastructure construction projects within established scope, budget, and schedule.
• Identify geotechnical risks and develop mitigation strategies for slope stability, foundation design, ground improvement, tunneling, and excavation projects.
• Review and approve geotechnical reports, subsurface investigation programs, design calculations, and construction methodologies to ensure accuracy and reliability.
• Oversee site investigations, soil and rock testing programs, and advanced modeling to support project designs and decision-making.
• Maintain a centralized database of subsurface soil information.
• Collaborate with design and construction teams to integrate geotechnical solutions into multidisciplinary projects.
• Provide technical oversight and review of geotechnical work performed by in-house engineers, consultants and contractors within Capital, Aviation Redevelopment, Major Capital Programs, and tenant developments and alterations, ensuring alignment with project requirements and performance expectations.
• Stay updated on changes in geotechnical engineering regulations, industry codes, and best practices, ensuring all projects adhere to the latest requirements. Participate in Code Committees for code creation and updates.
• In collaboration with the Chief Structural Engineer, lead, mentor, and develop a team of geotechnical engineers, fostering professional growth, technical excellence, institutional knowledge, and a culture of continuous improvement.
• Assist in preparing and reviewing project budgets, schedules, and resource plans to ensure timely and cost-effective execution of geotechnical engineering tasks.
• Accountable for geotechnical design delivery within budget, on-time and free of error or omission.
• Explore emerging technologies, sustainable practices, and advanced geotechnical engineering techniques to enhance project outcomes and efficiency.
• Represent the organization in industry conferences, technical committees, and research initiatives to stay at the forefront of geotechnical advancements.
• Sign in-house developed geotechnical engineering contract drawings.
• Foster an inclusive environment where diversity is valued and leveraged to achieve the Port Authority's mission and vision.
• Manage single-disciplinary consultant agreements for geotechnical repairs, testing, studies, and assessments.

• Bachelor's Degree in Civil or Geotechnical Engineering from an accredited college or university
• Licensed Professional Engineer in the States of New York and New Jersey
• Must possess a valid driver's license.
• A minimum of 15 years of experience in progressively more responsible positions in the field of Geotechnical Engineering design including thorough knowledge of geotechnical design and construction methods, knowledge of applicable building codes, and superior problem solving and management skills, with a demonstrated ability to provide expert and executive level guidance on geotechnical matters for intra-agency and inter-agency needs.
• Proven ability to lead, manage, and prioritize multiple assignments with multiple disciplines.
• Demonstrated experience in problem solving, negotiations and conflict resolution skills to effectively reach sound conclusions and recommendations.
• Experience managing a large full-service staff of at least five (5) professionals and sub-professionals engaged in all Geotechnical Engineering design related tasks, for transportation/public utility/state/municipal facilities.
• Demonstrated and working knowledge of Local, State and Federal codes and standards.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to work efficiently, independently (with direct reports) and prioritize as required.
• Demonstrated experience in leading project teams in the preparation of engineering designs including preparation of proposals, design coordination, schedule reporting, budget reporting and briefing senior staff.
• Experience in preparing scope of work and design criteria for all projects involving consultants and auditing of consultant's design and progress.

• Master's Degree in Geotechnical Engineering
• Thorough understanding of codes, standards and construction specifications and requirements with active participation in industry-wide code and standards committees related to geotechnical design and construction for Port Authority facilities.