S&ME · 4 hours ago
Chief Administrative Officer
S&ME, Inc. is seeking a Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) to be a key member of their executive leadership team, responsible for driving operational excellence across a growing AEC professional services organization. The CAO will oversee administrative operations, including Human Resources, Information Technology, Legal/Risk, Facilities, Fleet, and Procurement, ensuring efficiency, compliance, and long-term sustainability.
Civil EngineeringConsulting
Responsibilities
Collaborate with executive leadership to define organizational goals, set strategies, and implement annual operational plans
Ensure compliance with all legal, regulatory, and ethical standards
Direct key administrative functions, including Human Resources, Information Technology, Facilities, Procurement, and Fleet Management
Streamline processes, monitor KPIs, and drive efficiency across the organization
Build a strong HR infrastructure to support recruitment, retention, development, and competitive total rewards
Foster an environment where talent can thrive
Set and execute S&ME's technology vision, ensuring systems evolve to improve productivity, collaboration, and client experience
Oversee legal strategy in collaboration with Chief Counsel regarding contracts, regulatory compliance, and enterprise risk management
Provide counsel on complex business decisions as needed
Ensure these areas support operational goals, cost control, risk mitigation, and sustainability
Oversee vendor relationships, space utilization, and asset management
Lead, mentor, and grow high-performing teams, building a collaborative and innovative workplace culture
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree required
10+ years of progressive leadership experience in strategic planning, administration, and executive roles with oversight in either HR, Fleet, Facilities, IT, and/or Legal departments
7+ years of experience in Professional Services, with the engineering or construction industry preferred
Ability to be based in the Raleigh, NC area with regular in-person presence to support executive collaboration, team leadership, and strategic initiatives
Strategic, decisive leader with strong business and financial acumen
Experience partnering closely with a CFO on budgeting and forecasting
Proven ability to lead HR, IT, and operational functions at scale
Strong understanding of legal, compliance, and risk considerations in professional services environments
Effective cross-functional communicator who leads through influence and trust
Preferred
Master's degree in Business Administration, Human Resources, or related field preferred
7+ years of experience in Professional Services, with the engineering or construction industry preferred
Benefits
Comprehensive Health & Wellness Programs
Medical, Dental & Vision Plans with HSA and FSA options
Wellness Program offering $50 off per month on 2027 premiums
Pet Insurance for your furry family members
100% Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) with a 5% company contribution
401(k) Retirement Plan to help you plan ahead
Term Life & Long-Term Care Coverage - available Spring 2026
Paid Holidays, PTO with rollover options, and Paid Maternity & Paternity Leave
Mentorship & Career Development Programs, Tuition Reimbursement, and Credential Incentive Program
Employee Recognition Program, $2,000 Referral Bonuses, and a company vehicle & fuel card for project-based roles
Company
S&ME
S&Me is a local geotechnical engineering firm which offers diverse engineering, design, environmental sciences, and construction services.