Geotechnical Laboratory Technical Director

Cooperidge Consulting Firm is seeking a Geotechnical Laboratory Technical Director to lead a state-of-the-art, fully accredited laboratory in Tucker, GA.

This is a premier leadership opportunity for a technical expert who thrives on precision and quality. You will oversee daily operations for a lab that serves clients across 40+ states and maintains a prestigious two-decade streak of deficiency-free technical audits. This role is 100% laboratory-based—eliminating the need for fieldwork or constant travel—allowing you to focus entirely on staff mentorship, equipment calibration, and the sophisticated testing of soils and construction materials. If you are a high-detail leader ready to uphold a national reputation for excellence, this is your next career step.Job Responsibilities

• Operational Leadership: Direct all laboratory functions, including staff supervision, scheduling, resource planning, and equipment calibration cycles.
• Technical Oversight: Oversee a comprehensive suite of geotechnical tests, including Proctor, Atterberg Limits, Triaxial (CU/UU), Direct Shear, and Consolidation.
• Accreditation Management: Ensure 100% compliance with ASTM, AASHTO, and GDOT standards; maintain active certifications with USACE and AASHTO Resource.
• Audit Defense: Prepare for and lead both internal and external audits, continuing the laboratory's long-standing tradition of zero-deficiency results.
• QA/QC Stewardship: Drive safety and quality protocols, ensuring strict adherence to federally approved Quality Management System (QMS) manuals.
• Mentorship: Train and evaluate laboratory technicians, fostering an environment of technical growth and rigorous attention to detail.
• Client Consultation: Collaborate directly with clients to provide technical insights, project support, and troubleshooting for complex material behaviors.
• Business Support: Manage documentation and reporting; utilize QuickBooks for invoicing and financial tracking as needed.

Requirements

Education & Licensing

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil or Geotechnical Engineering is REQUIRED (Master’s preferred).
• PE License (Professional Engineer) is a significant advantage but not required.

Experience & Technical Skills

• Minimum of 8+ years of experience in geotechnical or construction materials testing.
• Proven Leadership: At least 3–5 years in a laboratory management or supervisory capacity.
• Standards Expertise: In-depth knowledge of ASTM and AASHTO testing procedures and state DOT requirements.
• Software Proficiency: Mastery of MS Office Suite; familiarity with QuickBooks is highly desirable.

Soft Skills

• Auditor's Eye: Exceptional attention to detail with a "quality-first" mindset.
• Communication: Ability to translate complex lab results into actionable technical reports for clients and stakeholders.
• Motivation: Proven ability to manage, develop, and retain a high-performing technical team.

Benefits

• Competitive pay with opportunities for overtime and weekend shifts.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Life insurance and disability coverage.
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer match.
• Paid time off — vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Continuing education and professional development opportunities.
• Supportive, team-oriented work environment.