Geotechnical Unit Manager

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. 

Reporting to the Chief Structural Engineer and working closely with the Office of the Chief of Design, the Geotechnical Unit Manager, as a technical authority, strategic leader and key decision-maker, will be directing, advising, guiding, and leading geotechnical design services, managing resources and prioritizing work assignments to deliver preliminary and final design documents for capital and operating projects for the Port Authority. 

Responsibilities

• 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 advancemen