Geotechnical & Materials Discipline Lead

Job Description

Ready to build your career? We want to hear from you.

As the Head of Discipline – Geotechnical and Materials within Pomerleau’s Technical Department, you will lead the geotechnical aspect of projects. Involved from the early stages of major construction and infrastructure projects – ranging from several tens of millions to over a billion dollars – you and your team will contribute to the commercial and technical success of proposals, and later to design follow‑up and construction support. In this role, you will ensure not only the well‑being and development of your team members, but also oversee the strategy for growth and advancement within your areas of expertise.

What you will do

• Act as a recognized technical expert within the organization on complex projects.
• Identify project needs and participate in the selection of consultants and specialized contractors.
• Manage resource assignment requests, identify recruitment needs, and report monthly resource forecasts.
• Collaborate with the Director – Technical Expertise and/or proposal and project leads to define potential scopes of work.
• Assign team resources to projects and ensure regular, rigorous follow‑up.
• Develop and implement continuous training programs to maintain and enhance technical skills within the team.
• Regularly assess team members’ competencies and identify professional development needs.
• Monitor technological developments and emerging trends in geotechnics and materials.
• Participate in working groups and technical committees to influence industry standards and practices.
• Promote the adoption of innovative and efficient technologies and work methods within the team, projects, and organization.

Pre‑Construction Phase

• Review and analyze client‑provided tender documents.
• Collaborate with consultants to define geotechnical and materials design strategies (constructability, execution alternatives, investigation scope, cost reduction, optimization, etc.).
• Participate in design development meetings with the project team and stakeholders.
• Lead discipline‑specific meetings with consultants and specialized subcontractors.
• Ensure communication and information transfer between consultants, the construction team, and specialized subcontractors.
• Oversee design review procedures, ensure compliance with client requirements, and contribute to risk identification and mitigation.

Execution Phase

• Identify and assign expert resources based on project needs.
• Serve as an expert resource and point of contact for resolving geotechnical, geological, and materials‑related issues.
• Conduct site visits and advise technical and construction teams on execution methods.
• Prepare detailed technical analysis reports as needed.

This role could be for you if you have

• Eligibility to get a reliability clearance is essential.
• Hold at least a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering with a specialization in geotechnics.
• Graduate studies in geotechnics (M.Sc. or Ph.D.) are considered an asset.
• Recognized expertise in the field.
• Member of a professional regulatory body (e.g., OIQ).
• Minimum 10 years of professional experience, including at least 10 years in design roles and managing specialist teams.
• Experience in civil engineering projects (e.g., roads, bridges, marine works, transportation systems) and/or building construction projects with complex foundations or material challenges, including those delivered through alternative models such as design‑build or public‑private partnerships (P3s).
• Experience developing design concepts and working with multidisciplinary teams.
• Experience in design (consulting firms) and/or construction (general or specialized contractors) is an asset.
• Demonstrate initiative, innovation, discipline, and leadership in planning and concept development.
• Strong analytical skills, ability to synthesize information, sound judgment, and excellent interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with team members, partners, and clients.
• Comfortable working in high‑pressure, fast‑paced environments.
• Solution‑oriented mindset with strong people mobilization skills.
• Proficiency in both French and English.

Benefits

• RRSP with up to 5% employer matching
• Hybrid work model for corporate roles
• Employee stock ownership program
• Career growth through real development opportunities
• Transit pass reimbursement — get to work for free
• Minimum 4 weeks of vacation from day one

For the past six years, we've proudly held the distinction of being one of Canada's Top 100 Employers.

The expected compensation range posted for this role applies to available work locations in Ontario and/or British Columbia. Offered compensation may vary from the posted range based on a candidate’s relevant skills, experience, qualifications, geographic location, and the final job for which they are hired.

Please view this job on Pomerleau’s official Career Site if the posted compensation range is unavailable on a third‑party job board.

Pomerleau is a national leader in construction, delivering major projects across Canada. We believe in creating a workplace where people feel respected, supported, and empowered to grow. Our culture is built on collaboration, trust, and a shared commitment to doing great work. If this speaks to you, apply for this role or connect with one of our recruiters to learn how we can support you throughout the process.

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