Manager - Geotechnics, Brisbane

Create futures worth inheriting with SMEC and the SJ Group 

About SJ Group

At SJ, we’re building identity into infrastructure, character into skylines and peace of mind into everyday life.

A global urban and infrastructure consultancy firm with over 75 years of project delivery success, SJ and its member companies continue a collective legacy that delivers global expertise with local precision.

Become part of our 16,000 client-centric specialists in more than 120 offices in over 40 countries who shape spaces across the world to meet the needs of today and the aspirations of generations to come.

About SMEC

We unlock the potential of our people to look at infrastructure differently, creating better outcomes for the future.

We are committed to positively impact the people, the environment and the clients and communities we serve.

About the Role

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Manager – Geotechnics to lead our Brisbane-based team. This is a key leadership role responsible for driving operational excellence, team performance, and business growth within the Geotechnics sub-sector at a local level.

As Manager – Geotechnics, you will oversee the coordination and performance of the Brisbane team while contributing to State and National business strategies. You will play a pivotal role in ensuring technical excellence, strong project delivery, and the continued growth of the geotechnical function through effective leadership, client engagement, and business development.

Key accountabilities include, but are not limited to:

• Lead the planning and performance of the local Geotechnics team in alignment with State and sub-sector business plans
• Drive business development and actively manage client relationships to support growth
• Provide project governance and oversight to ensure delivery excellence in quality, timeliness, and technical sophistication
• Lead, mentor, and develop team members to enhance capability, cohesion, and retention
• Collaborate with senior leadership to support the transition to a national service delivery model
• Manage team resourcing, performance, and professional development to achieve optimal outcomes

About You

You are a proven leader within the geotechnical engineering field, with strong commercial acumen and a passion for developing high-performing teams. You bring a balance of technical expertise, project delivery success, and the ability to build lasting client relationships.

Suitable applicants will be/have:

• Tertiary qualifications in a relevant discipline (essential)
• Postgraduate qualifications (highly regarded)
• Project Management qualification (desirable)
• 10–15+ years’ industry experience in geotechnics or a related field
• Demonstrated success in managing multi-disciplinary projects to budget and client requirements
• Recognised as a local industry authority with a strong professional profile
• Strong leadership and people management capability with a focus on performance and development
• Excellent client relationship management and business development skills
• Proven ability to prepare high-quality tenders and proposals
• In-depth knowledge of relevant industry standards and legislation
• Strong commercial awareness and ability to translate market insights into business outcomes
• High-level communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to lead and coordinate multi-disciplinary teams effectively
• Analytical, conceptual, and strategic thinking combined with a customer-focused mindset
• Active participation in industry forums and professional networks

Why Join?
This is an opportunity to step into a senior leadership position where you can influence strategy, shape a growing team, and contribute to impactful projects across Queensland and beyond. You’ll be part of a collaborative, forward-thinking organisation that values innovation, leadership, and professional development.

To find out more about SMEC, please visit our careers page at www.smec.com/careers

For a confidential discussion reach out to Ami: [email protected]

Link to benefits: http://www.smec.com/en_au/careers/your-career-with-SMEC

All recruitment activities go through our Recruitment & Talent function and currently, this role doesn’t require agency input. Please do not forward resume directly to SMEC employees/managers; we do not accept unsolicited resumes and are not responsible for any associated fees.

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At Surbana Jurong, we put talent, hard work, teamwork and a fun workplace together to approach problems and solve them creatively and collaboratively. Join us in making a positive impact on the world!