Office Principal
Requisition Number: 2026-1178-07
S&ME is a 100% employee-owned civil engineering and consulting firm looking for our next Office Principal to lead the Cincinnati, Ohio office with a focus on operational excellence, financial performance, and strategic growth. If you have experience in the civil engineering and consulting industry and looking for an opportunity to lead an established operation, shape strategy and the long-term success of a high performing office, we want to talk to you.
Why Work at S&ME?
- Employee Ownership: As a 100% employee-owned company, our ESOP gives you a personal stake in our success and the opportunity to build long-term wealth while helping shape our future.
- Office Expansion: The Cincinnati office is experiencing strong growth.
- Career Growth: We invest in your success with mentorship, training, and leadership opportunities.
- Exciting Projects: Big or small, simple or complex, we do it all. Our projects are as diverse as they are exciting, so every day brings something new.
- Supportive Culture: Collaboration, respect, and positivity fuel our team environment.
- Flexibility: Work-life balance matters to us, helping you thrive inside and outside the office.
- Community Impact: Your work will directly improve the communities where we live, work, and play.
About The Role:
As the Office Principal, you will lead an established and growing 30+ person operation with a multidisciplinary team of engineers, scientists, technicians, client developers and administrative staff supporting geotechnical, construction materials testing, and environmental projects throughout Ohio and surrounding states.
You will oversee all aspects of office operations from project delivery and client satisfaction to staff and business development, ensuring alignment with corporate goals and regional strategies. Your leadership will directly impact the success of the Cincinnati office by fostering a culture of safety, collaboration, and innovation, while driving profitability and expanding market presence. This role is essential in shaping the office's future and reinforcing its value as a key contributor to the company's overall success.
- Oversee daily office operations, including staffing, scheduling, project oversight, and facility management to ensure efficient and effective workflows.
- Drive financial performance by managing project profitability, developing and monitoring budgets, forecasting revenue, and ensuring accurate financial reporting.
- Promote a culture of safety and technical excellence, ensuring compliance with safety protocols and delivering high-quality client service.
- Collaborate with regional and corporate leadership to align local strategies with broader business goals and support cross-functional initiatives.
- Lead talent management efforts, including recruitment, onboarding, performance management, mentoring, and professional development of staff.
About You:
You are an experienced leader with a background in engineering and consulting who thrives on building strong teams, delivering exceptional client service, and driving operational success. With a solid foundation in project and people management, you bring both strategic vision and hands-on leadership to every challenge. You're passionate about mentoring others, growing business opportunities, and making a meaningful impact in your community.
- You have a Bachelor's degree in an engineering, geology, construction or an industry related field; or an equivalent combination of education and experience
- You have at least 10 years of engineering, construction and/or consulting related experience, including 5 years of experience, in leading, coaching, and inspiring high-performing teams, projects, and office operations
- You have a professional license or registration in your practice area in the AEC industry (if applicable) is a plus
- You have strong business and financial acumen, with experience in budgeting, forecasting, and driving profitability
- You have excellent communication and relationship-building skills, with a collaborative mindset and a client-first approach
We Are S&ME:
At S&ME, we're committed to your growth, professionally and personally. With over 50 years of experience delivering innovative solutions in geotechnical, civil, environmental, and construction materials engineering, we've built a strong foundation for long-term careers. Our team of 1,000+ employee-owners across 10+ states works together to create meaningful impact for our clients and communities. When you join S&ME, you become part of a collaborative, honest, and people-focused culture that invests in your success. We offer exciting project opportunities, ongoing training, and a comprehensive benefits package to support you and your family. This is more than a job; it's a place to grow, thrive, and build a future.
Here's what you can look forward to:
- Medical, Dental & Vision Plans with HSA and FSA options
- Wellness Program - $50 off per month on your 2027 premiums!
- Pet Insurance
- 100% Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) with a 5% company contribution
- 401(k) Retirement Plan
- Paid Holidays and Paid Time Off (PTO) - with rollover options
- Paid Maternity & Parental Leave
- Mentorship & Career Development Programs
- Credential Incentive Program - get rewarded for advancing your skills
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Employee Recognition Program
- Company Vehicle & Fuel Card - for project-based roles
- $2,000 Employee Referral Bonuses - and more!
If you are seeking a challenging and rewarding career with a firm committed to our employees and providing quality service to our clients, join our team!
This full-time role offers competitive pay based on experience. Candidates must comply with our Fleet Management, Substance Policy, and Reference Check requirements. Only candidates with valid employment eligibility (I-9) will be considered. Visa assistance is not available. S&ME reserves the right to hire internally or externally at any time. No candidate/recruiter calls, personal calls, or walk-ins are accepted.
