Principal Geotechnical Manager – Sacramento, California Sequence has been exclusively retained and is currently seeking a capable Principal Geotechnical Manager to lead the geotechnical division of a respected, privately held consulting organization in Northern California. This is among the most visible leadership opportunities of its kind in the region – a unique chance to step into executive oversight for a well-established, 25-year-old firm with no debt, significant resources, and a strategic plan to expand operations across multiple states and regions. Based in Sacramento, California, with regional operations across Northern California, the Principal Geotechnical Manager will be responsible for directing the performance, growth, and long-term vision of the geotechnical team. This includes oversight of technical excellence in foundation systems, slope stability, seismic evaluation, levee and dam safety, subsurface investigations, and related disciplines, while simultaneously leading a talented group of engineers and geologists in pursuit of continued innovation and quality service delivery. The ideal individual will be both a business leader and technical authority—equally capable of mentoring staff, guiding client engagements, and shaping the operational and financial performance of the division. This role requires a proven ability to function simultaneously as a technical leader, project director, and client-facing seller-doer. While the firm maintains dedicated marketing and business development resources, this position is highly visible to clients and represents a key leadership presence in building relationships, driving project opportunities, and ensuring overall customer satisfaction. The organization operates with the stability and capital of a large platform, yet with the nimbleness and close-knit culture of a family-owned consultancy. Leadership values collaboration, integrity, and a sense of balance—recognizing the importance of work-life integration while ensuring the delivery of critical infrastructure that protects California’s communities. Most projects are located within California and Nevada, allowing stability, minimal travel, and the ability to build a long-term career and life in one place. Corporate Culture The client is a privately held, family-owned firm with over 25 years of history serving California’s communities. Leadership is deeply committed to fostering an environment where collaboration, respect, and integrity are not just aspirations but everyday practice. With no debt and strong capitalization, the organization operates from a position of stability that allows it to prioritize people over bureaucracy. Decisions move quickly, ideas are valued at every level, and leaders are visible and accessible. The culture emphasizes balance—recognizing that professional success is inseparable from personal well-being. Staff are supported with flexibility, minimal travel requirements, and meaningful professional development opportunities. Many team members have spent decades with the firm, a testament to its emphasis on loyalty, mentorship, and building a true sense of belonging. This is an environment where talented professionals can build not just a career, but a legacy. Responsibilities Lead, manage, and grow the geotechnical team while driving revenue and client satisfaction. Provide leadership as both technical authority and project director, ensuring quality, efficiency, and profitability across all projects. Function as a seller-doer: maintain and strengthen client relationships, identify and pursue opportunities, and represent the firm as a trusted partner. Oversee technical programs including subsurface investigations, foundation design, seismic and slope stability evaluations, levee/dam studies, and forensic investigations. Mentor engineers and geologists, fostering a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performance team culture. Guide client engagement strategies, prepare estimates and schedules, and provide oversight throughout project execution. Serve as the senior technical and client-facing leader representing the firm with agencies, partners, and stakeholders. Qualifications California Geotechnical Engineer (GE) strongly preferred; California PE required (with GE obtained within 12 months if not currently held). 8–10+ years of progressively responsible geotechnical engineering experience, including senior management. Expertise in foundation systems, seismic analysis, dam and levee safety, slope stability, and complex infrastructure challenges. Demonstrated ability to lead teams, manage KPIs, and cultivate strong client relationships. Experience functioning as a seller-doer, combining technical excellence with client development and relationship management. Bachelor’s degree in Engineering required; Master’s in Geotechnical Engineering preferred. Candidate Profile This opportunity could be ideal for a seasoned senior professional seeking a long-term home within a stable, well-capitalized, and growing organization—one where their knowledge and abilities will be valued, recognized, and rewarded. At the same time, it may also be an excellent fit for a talented and dynamic mid-level leader who is poised to step into principal responsibility and lead the geotechnical group with the full backing and resources of an established firm. Compensation
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