Schnabel, 45240 Business Court, Sterling, VA (2026)

03/04/2021

Schnabel’s Patented Method for Underpinning Foundations

One of America’s premier specialty foundation contractors, Schnabel utilizes underpinning to ensure the structural stability and integrity of existing foundations. An industry leader in safety, we’ve streamlined the task with unique innovations that eliminate the need for manual labor, creating a safer, more efficient process.

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Improving the Foundation Underpinning Process

Underpinning is a very effective method used to repair existing foundations or increase foundation depth. It may be necessary for several different reasons, but generally, underpinning is used to lower the bearing level of a foundation to accommodate an adjacent excavation. It may also be necessary when adding an additional story or other weight to a building to improve the existing foundations capacity.

There are a variety of types of underpinning, depending on the goals and circumstances surrounding a project. Schnabel specializes in hand-dug piers, micropiles, bracket piles, jet grouting and other innovative processes for underpinning. As a leading-edge, design-build contractor, Schnabel has also elevated the underpinning process by creating a safer, more efficient way to install underpinning using soil mixing.

A Patented System

While it is a very effective process, underpinning requires expert knowledge and extensive field experience. It can be both time-consuming and dangerous in certain instances, due to the traditional reliance on manual excavation. Because we have always been at the forefront of safety and innovation, Schnabel has invested heavily in research and development to push the underpinning process into the 21st century by making it faster, safer and even more reliable.

We’ve accomplished our goal and exceeded industry expectations with a patented soil mix pier underpinning (SMPU) system (Patent 10,889,955). This development further sets us apart from other specialty foundation and soil retention companies and bolsters our reputation as an industry leader in safety and innovation.

How it Works

During the underpinning process, Schnabel designs and installs soil mix piers beneath existing structures to extend foundations to deeper stratums. This is a vast improvement on traditional hand-dug piers where workers excavate soil and construct concrete piers beneath a structure. Hand-dug piers are both time consuming and risky to the worker.

At Schnabel, we use a patented method of construction that eliminates the need to put workers under the existing structure. The innovative method utilizes specialized equipment to reach beneath a structure and create a rectangular soil mix pier. The pier is created by mechanically mixing the in-situ soil with cement grout. The mixing is performed with an articulating cutter head. The resulting soil-cement mixture then hardens in place and forms an underpinning pier that can resist vertical loads from the structure above. The soil mix piers can be installed rapidly and can be loaded as soon as 24 hours after installation. This has the potential to shorten project schedules considerably.

Investing in Innovative Underpinning Methods

Soil mix piers provide uniform bearing beneath sensitive structures. Our patented installation method creates rectangular-shaped piers that can be positioned to provide full support to existing footings. This contrasts with the cylindrical-shaped piers that result from conventional methods of creating soil-cement columns such as jet grouting or deep soil mixing.

Soil-cement is a proven and versatile building material with a long history of use in geo-structural applications. Typical unconfined compressive strengths range from 100 to 1,000 psi. Schnabel determines the appropriate ratios of cement and water to be combined with the soil to produce the required strength.

With decades of field experience and a diverse staff of skilled industry experts, Schnabel has the expertise to provide tailored underpinning solutions to strengthen and support existing foundations. We also stand at the forefront of safety and innovation, ensuring that we bring the latest techniques and technologies to every project.

Safety is a top priority at Schnabel. We take a complete systemic approach to safety because of the nature of the work we do. Our safety team is dedicated to reviewing all aspects of construction — prior to, during, and follow-up.”

At Schnabel, we work with unique equipment you may not find anywhere else. We also often modify equipment in a way that makes things faster, safer and more efficient. This allows us to eliminate any potential hazards and streamline operational efficiencies.

It also requires substantial, ongoing investment and a continuing commitment to hiring the very best the industry has to offer. This makes Schnabel a great place to work, while also positioning us as a thought leader and industry innovator that can provide unique solutions in a timely manner, regardless of the complex challenges and environmental complications surrounding a particular project.

At Schnabel, if there’s a safer, more efficient way to do something for a customer, we will always find a way to do it. To learn more about our innovative underpinning construction process, contact our office today.

RECENT
PROJECTS

Schnabel is the sector’s most operationally efficient Geostuctural Design & Construction contractor. We optimize efficiencies by leveraging decades of experience and design/build expertise, to innovate processes and approaches that are consistently proven to deliver optimal outcomes for our clients.

Excavation Support

Jet Grouting

Landslide Walls

Micropiles

Permanent Retaining Walls

Secant Wall

Shotcrete

Soil Mixing

Soil Nailing

Tiebacks

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The post Schnabel’s Patented Method for Underpinning Foundations appeared first on Schnabel.

Schnabel’s Patented Method for Underpinning Foundations One of America’s premier specialty foundation contractors, Schnabel utilizes underpinning to ensure the structural stability and integrity of existing foundations. An industry leader in safety, we’ve streamlined the task with unique innov...

03/03/2021

Schnabel is proud to announce that the 2021 Harry Schnabel Jr. Award presented by the Geo-Institute of ASCE has been awarded to Ernie Brandl.

The Harry Schnabel Jr. Award was created in 2006 by the Geo-Institute of ASCE to recognize individuals that embody Harry Schnabel Jr.’s numerous achievements in the field of earth retaining structures.

The award recognizes an academic, builder, or practicing engineer/geologist who has demonstrated a commitment to service, excellence, and innovation in the field of earth retaining structures and has at least 20 years of experience.

Ernie began his career with Schnabel in 1979 as a Manager of Sales and Design in the newly opened regional office in Chicago. In 1982, he relocated to the Houston area and the rest is history. Ernie went on to serve for over 30 years as the Branch Manager and Regional Manager/Vice President of Schnabel’s Southwest Region and officially retired on April 1st, 2020 after more than 40 years of dedicated service.

Congratulations, Ernie!

The post ERNIE BRANDL WINS 2021 HARRY SCHNABEL JR. AWARD appeared first on Schnabel.

Schnabel is proud to announce that the 2021 Harry Schnabel Jr. Award presented by the Geo-Institute of ASCE has been awarded to Ernie Brandl. The Harry Schnabel Jr. Award was created in 2006 by the Geo-Institute of ASCE to recognize individuals that embody Harry Schnabel Jr.’s numerous achievement...

03/01/2021

Schnabel is a family oriented company

What do you do at Schnabel?

I make sure that our jobs run smoothly, safely, have all their equipment working properly, and have enough supplies to complete the project. I also attend weekly project meetings via Microsoft Teams with general contractors and key city/county personnel involved in our projects. Finally, spend time filing for permits and other important documents needed for our projects.

What does an average day look like for you?

In the morning, I make my way to the local store to purchase ice and fuel for the job site. Next, I take some time to take care of any office work and answer any outstanding emails. Afterward, I come up with a daily work plan to discuss with my crew and get them ready to work. Finally, I spend some time to communicate with my subs and coordinate the workday.

What is your biggest professional accomplishment at Schnabel?

My biggest accomplishment during my time with Schnabel is that I have been able to work around great knowable Crew members (Laborers, Operators, Pile Drivers, etc.) foreman, project engineers, and project managers. My recent promotion to A-Foreman which I wasn’t expecting, is also something that I would consider a big professional accomplishment.

What is your favorite part about working for Schnabel?

My favorite part about working for Schnabel is the camaraderie amongst all my peers.

How would you describe Schnabel?

Schnabel is a family-oriented company that cares about its employees not only on the work side but also on the family side. Also, Schnabel is a very resilient company that is always finding ways to stand out from our competitors

What is the most meaningful part of your job?

The most meaningful part of my job is that I enjoy what I do no matter how stressful or challenging it gets. I look forward to coming to work every day and giving my 100%.

How is Schnabel different from other companies?

At Schnabel, the personnel is always willing to teach you new techniques and strategies to help you improve at your job and develop as a professional. Here, you have a chance to grow professionally and given job stability compared to the two other companies that I worked for.

Other Employees

STAN WORST

Project Manager | Chicago Office

JEAN WEHBE

Project Manager | Houston Office

DAVID VEGA-SANCHEZ

A foreman | San Francisco Office

CAROLYN VALDEZ

Darftsperson | Denver Office

RENEE WALDRON

Administrative Assistant | Chicago Office

INDERJIT CHAWLA

Senior Accountant | Corporate Office

The post David Vega-Sanchez appeared first on Schnabel.

Schnabel is a family oriented company What do you do at Schnabel? I make sure that our jobs run smoothly, safely, have all their equipment working properly, and have enough supplies to complete the project. I also attend weekly project meetings via Microsoft

02/24/2021

You are recognized for your contributions, hard work, and accomplishments

What do you do at Schnabel?

I support our office and construction employees in whatever capacity they need. A big part of my job involves keeping paper moving through our office such as credit card backups, supplier invoices, and credit card statements. I also keep our office stocked with supplies, process credit apps, work on AIA contracts, take care of our office equipment, reconcile the petty cash bank statements, collect union wages and fringes, and schedule training for our Midwest Region employees.

What does an average day look like for you?

On an average day, I normally open and answer all emails right away, follow up on unpaid invoices, code and distribute supplier invoices/credit statements to the appropriate person for approval and support the office and field staff as needed.

What is your biggest professional accomplishment at Schnabel?

I was involved in the implementation of our CLC program and now I am the administrator! Some of my other big professional accomplishments include learning how to use Bluebeam software, starting a book for EEO (equal employment opportunity) documentation, creating a system to organize safety training for field employees, and learning how to use AIA Contract software.

What is your favorite part about working for Schnabel?

Working as a team and the closeness we all share as a team is what I love the most about Schnabel. We all work very well together and have much respect for one another. I also enjoy that I get to help our field employees. It’s important that they know I am here for them because I know how hard it is to be away from their families.

How would you describe Schnabel?

Schnabel is a family-owned and family-run business with a great work ethic and an emphasis on safety.

What is the most meaningful part of your job?

Sharing accomplishments with our office, which might include selling a big job and knowing that I had a part in that.

How is Schnabel different from other companies?

At Schnabel, you don’t get lost in the corporate world. You are recognized for your contributions, hard work, and accomplishments.

Other Employees

The post Renee Waldron appeared first on Schnabel.

You are recognized for your contributions, hard work, and accomplishments What do you do at Schnabel? I support our office and construction employees in whatever capacity they need. A big part of my job involves keeping paper moving through our office such as

02/24/2021

The variety of work is my favorite part about working for Schnabel.

What do you do at Schnabel?

I am involved in the design and building of large earth retention system projects that our regional office in Houston takes on.

What does an average day look like for you?

On an average day, I first check our pipeline of upcoming and ongoing projects that are being designed. Next, I check in with our foremen on ongoing projects to inform myself about how our operations are going. Afterward, I plan the construction of the upcoming projects that are already designed, which involves a lot of coordination, material planning, equipment planning, and human resource planning.

What is your biggest professional accomplishment at Schnabel?

Working at Schnabel, I feel like there’s a new accomplishment every day whether it’s increased productivity on job sites, efficient design development, and especially when we complete a large job on schedule and on budget.

What is your favorite part about working for Schnabel?

The variety of work is my favorite part about working for Schnabel. I never just focus on one aspect of construction projects, but I am engaged in multiple aspects such as working with our field team and partially working in the office. I love how every day is different for me

How would you describe Schnabel?

Schnabel is a decentralized company that provides an environment that allows you to learn, try new things, and innovate without feeling micromanaged.

What is the most meaningful part of your job?

The safety aspect of my job is the most meaningful part of my job. I emphasize the word safety because finishing a job without any injury is alays my priority.

How is Schnabel different from other companies

Compared to other companies that I worked for, Schnabel’s management style allows you to work independently while getting support only when I need it.

Other Employees

The post Jean Wehbe appeared first on Schnabel.

The variety of work is my favorite part about working for Schnabel. What do you do at Schnabel? I am involved in the design and building of large earth retention system projects that our regional office in Houston takes on. What does an average

02/24/2021

Schnabel helps me achieve a work-life balance

What do you do at Schnabel?

As Schnabel’s Sr. Accountant, I mainly work on our company’s payroll taxes and handle our sale and use taxes. Since Schnabel is a nationwide contractor, I file taxes for almost all fifty states and do tax research for any changes in laws or tax requirements. In addition to taxes, I also do bank reconciliations, account receivables, report our daily cash position to our CFO, deposit daily checks we receive, prequalification for bids, and help our Project Managers obtain insurance certificates for their jobs.

What does an average day look like for you?

An average day for me is very exciting and filled with a lot of work. I start by checking our bank account to see if we received any payments online and then I interact with our Project Managers to get updates on A/R and job payments. Next, I take some time to handle the insurance certificate inquires that I receive and interact with our engineers and outside clients during this time.

What is your favorite part about working for Schnabel?

One of my favorite parts about working for Schnabel is the people that I get to work with. When I come to work, I feel like I am coming to my second home since we treat each other like family and work as a unit. In addition to working with amazing people, I also like how Schnabel takes care of their employees and helps me achieve a work-life balance.

How would you describe Schnabel?

Schnabel is a fun place to work where you can find the true meaning of family and longevity. At Schnabel, you will notice that a lot of employees who join the team end up retiring here.

What is the most meaningful part of your job?

Helping our Project Managers and nationwide branches with the necessary paperwork to start their jobs on time is the most meaningful part of my job. Handling our taxes and taking care of notices from our tax department is also a very meaningful part of my job.

How is Schnabel different from other companies?

Schnabel is different from other companies because they put a lot of trust in their employees. This is very important because trust is the first step of respect and when you feel respected, you truly enjoy coming to work.

Other Employees

The post Inderjit Chawla appeared first on Schnabel.

Schnabel helps me achieve a work-life balance What do you do at Schnabel? As Schnabel’s Sr. Accountant, I mainly work on our company’s payroll taxes and handle our sale and use taxes. Since Schnabel is a nationwide contractor, I file taxes for almost

02/24/2021

Schnabel is a family oriented company

What do you do at Schnabel?

I make sure that our jobs run smoothly, safely, have all their equipment working properly, and have enough supplies to complete the project. I also attend weekly project meetings via Microsoft Teams with general contractors and key city/county personnel involved in our projects. Finally, spend time filing for permits and other important documents needed for our projects.

What does an average day look like for you?

In the morning, I make my way to the local store to purchase ice and fuel for the job site. Next, I take some time to take care of any office work and answer any outstanding emails. Afterward, I come up with a daily work plan to discuss with my crew and get them ready to work. Finally, I spend some time to communicate with my subs and coordinate the workday.

What is your biggest professional accomplishment at Schnabel?

My biggest accomplishment during my time with Schnabel is that I have been able to work around great knowable Crew members (Laborers, Operators, Pile Drivers, etc.) foreman, project engineers, and project managers. My recent promotion to A-Foreman which I wasn’t expecting, is also something that I would consider a big professional accomplishment.

What is your favorite part about working for Schnabel?

My favorite part about working for Schnabel is the camaraderie amongst all my peers.

How would you describe Schnabel?

Schnabel is a family-oriented company that cares about its employees not only on the work side but also on the family side. Also, Schnabel is a very resilient company that is always finding ways to stand out from our competitors

What is the most meaningful part of your job?

The most meaningful part of my job is that I enjoy what I do no matter how stressful or challenging it gets. I look forward to coming to work every day and giving my 100%.

How is Schnabel different from other companies?

At Schnabel, the personnel is always willing to teach you new techniques and strategies to help you improve at your job and develop as a professional. Here, you have a chance to grow professionally and given job stability compared to the two other companies that I worked for.

Other Employees

The post David Vega-Sanchez appeared first on Schnabel.

Schnabel is a family oriented company What do you do at Schnabel? I make sure that our jobs run smoothly, safely, have all their equipment working properly, and have enough supplies to complete the project. I also attend weekly project meetings via Microsoft

02/24/2021

A company that promotes growth from within

What do you do at Schnabel?

I am a draftsperson for the Schnabel Regional Office in Denver who makes all the drawing plans and revisions for the jobs that we design and build for our region. When other Schnabel offices are busy, I will also assist them with their drawing needs. In addition to drafting, I manage the basic office operations such as office supplies, filing, keeping Corporate updated with the necessary files, and arranging meetings/conferences when needed.

What is your favorite part about working for Schnabel?

My favorite part about working for Schnabel is the employees that I work with. We are a tight-knit group, including people in the field and the office that is always willing to help each other out.

How would you describe Schnabel?

Schnabel is a corporation with a family business atmosphere. It has offices in larger cities that design and build work for the states near them, allowing them to be well versed in the particular work of those regions. Each office operates autonomously, yet collaboratively.

How is Schnabel different from other companies?

Schnabel is unique in that it designs the work and constructs it. You get to be a part of the whole process for the work that we do. It is a company that promotes growth from within and celebrates the employee’s good work and commitment to the company. Each Schnabel office operates autonomously, yet collaboratively.

Other Employees

The post Carolyn Valdez appeared first on Schnabel.

A company that promotes growth from within What do you do at Schnabel? I am a draftsperson for the Schnabel Regional Office in Denver who makes all the drawing plans and revisions for the jobs that we design and build for our region.

02/04/2021

With a national footprint and six decades of field experience, Schnabel is a leading-edge earth-retention contractor and foundation construction company. A design-build enterprise, we prioritize innovation and operational efficiency as a proven pathway to success. We also prioritize our people, because we know they are the reason we advance and thrive.

At Schnabel, we employ more than 200 skilled professionals who all play invaluable roles in our geostructural projects. To ensure that we attract the right talent, we offer competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits and uniquely rewarding career opportunities in engineering and construction management. These include:

Construction Operating Engineer

Operating engineers install piling and tiebacks, for excavation support. Main required skills include safely and productively operating drills, along with cranes and excavation equipment as necessary for the installation of sheeting and shoring.

In addition to operating machinery, operating engineers may be responsible for handling, hoisting or moving objects, repairing and maintaining mechanical equipment, or running large pumps or air compressors.

GeoStructural Design Engineer

The geo-structural design engineer works with project managers and estimators to develop solutions to our clients’ needs. The ideal design engineer has both academic and field experience. The design engineer works closely with others and communicates with a variety of people.

Field Engineer

This position will allow you to learn how to direct and coordinate a project in accordance with plans, specifications, and agreed-upon construction procedures, within budget and on schedule. The field engineer works closely with our foremen, field superintendents, and project managers across all disciplines of the project they are assigned.

Project Manager, Pre-Construction

Senior project managers, pre-construction work within the sales/pre-construction group to develop solutions to clients’ needs. The senior project manager has extensive field and estimating experience. They analyze drawings and specifications, develop a scope of work, and prepare detailed estimates for specialty geotechnical projects, including cost and schedules. They work closely with the pre-construction team and communicate with developers, contractors, consultants and other outside team members.

Project Manager, Operations

Project managers are responsible for supervising and managing all aspects of the projects they are assigned to, so construction work is completed in accordance with plans, specifications, and corporate standards. They plan, organize, direct, and coordinate all activities concerning the project, so the work is performed safely and completed on schedule and within budget.

Project managers participate in regional planning, personnel development, and product improvement. They should understand the needs of all stakeholders in the project and bring people together to accomplish objectives and solve problems. They should also develop new ideas for improving our processes and cultivate relationships with customers to develop future business opportunities.

Geotechnical Construction Project Manager

Geotechnical construction project managers specialize in geotechnical and structural analysis and design. They work primarily within the local region, but also provide support and partake in other project opportunities throughout the country for learning and development. A geotechnical construction project manager’s duties include estimating, budgeting, procurement, equipment coordination, managing schedules, and project coordination.

If you have a passion for working in the construction industry and a desire to further your career, we’d love to talk to you about joining our team.

The post Engineering and Construction Management Jobs appeared first on Schnabel.

With a national footprint and six decades of field experience, Schnabel is a leading-edge earth-retention contractor and foundation construction company. A design-build enterprise, we prioritize innovation and operational efficiency as a proven pathway to success. We also prioritize our people, beca...

01/26/2021

Civil engineering can be dated to the very first time someone placed a roof over their head. These days, it encompasses every critical part of the built environment from roads and bridges to canals, airports, dams, sewerage systems, railways, pipelines and much, much more.

If you have a career in civil engineering, you’re a part of a critical and honorable profession that gives you the opportunity to help design and construct the world around us. At Schnabel, our civil engineers have even greater opportunities, because we are a design-build company with a nationwide footprint.

What Makes Schnabel Different?

At Schnabel, our civil engineering recruiters are always looking for talented individuals to help design, build and supervise the geostructural projects we’re known for. Balancing design, construction, field and office work experience, this exciting position exposes you to different facets of our business while allowing you to grow your career.

A longstanding family-run organization, Schnabel takes pride in offering employees uniquely rewarding opportunities. Our civil engineers have the chance to work autonomously in their role in many respects, while also gaining the chance to work in the field.

Whether they’re working around a fine-tuned plan or providing tailored solutions for clients with unique problems, our civil engineers enjoy the freedom to devise and apply their methods as part of a diverse and cohesive team.

Taking Your Career to Another Level

A nationwide design-build company, Schnabel has more than 200 skilled employees who all play critical roles in our geostructural construction projects. To attract the right construction professional, we offer competitive salaries, superior benefits and opportunities for career advancement.

Because we have multiple locations throughout the U.S., our team gets to see the rest of the country and do work outside their local backyard. Combined with great benefits, invaluable mentoring and an encouraging, comfortable work environment, these characteristics make Schnabel an ideal place to practice and perfect your civil engineering talents.

What Does it Take to Work at Schnabel?

To qualify for a civil engineering position at Schnabel, you’ll need a minimum level of education and experience, including:

B.S. Degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Engineering, or Construction Management or equivalent experience

You should also have a passion for working in the construction industry and a desire to further your career through new opportunities, continuing education and field experience.

In addition to all this, there are some other important things we look for when choosing new engineers for our team. We like our employees to be forward-thinking problem solvers with entrepreneurial spirits. They are also expected to place an unyielding emphasis on safety and uphold the dignity of the Schnabel name.

If you meet these standards, we’d love to talk to you about joining our team.

The post Schnabel’s Civil Engineering Recruiters Seeking New Talent appeared first on Schnabel.

Civil engineering can be dated to the very first time someone placed a roof over their head. These days, it encompasses every critical part of the built environment from roads and bridges to canals, airports, dams, sewerage systems, railways, pipelines and much, much more. If you have a career in ci...

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