Principal Project Engineer

Job description:

Are you an experienced civil engineer whos ready to step into a principal-level leadership role? Were seeking a Principal Project Engineer/Manager to join a dynamic, multi-disciplinary team in San Diego, CA.

This is your chance to be at the forefront of landmark infrastructure and land development projects across Southern Californiaguiding both technical delivery and project leadership. Youll manage complex engineering assignments, mentor talented staff, and build lasting client relationships while shaping the future of the region.

If youre looking for a role that blends hands-on technical expertise, project management, and leadership, this is the perfect opportunity to take your career to the next level.

• As a Principal Project Engineer, you will:
• Lead and manage the preparation of construction documents, contracts, schedules, and budgets.
• Provide construction support and field coordination.
• Develop comprehensive contracts, fee proposals, and scopes of work.
• Supervise design and technical staff, ensuring high-quality project outcomes.
• Direct and review conceptual and preliminary engineering designs, including land use, zoning, site constraints, infrastructure, and regulatory requirements.
• Oversee regulatory processing and the preparation of public improvement plans.
• Conduct constructability reviews and support construction services.
• Manage strong client and public-agency interactions.
• Mentor and train junior engineers and technical staff.
• Foster collaborative internal and external relationships to ensure project success.

Qualifications:

• BSCE degree with CA Professional Civil Engineer license (or ability to obtain within 6 months).
• 812 years relevant experience (or 1215 years of equivalent industry experience).
• Minimum 3 years of management experience supervising technical staff.
• Strong leadership, supervisory, and project management skills.
• Proficiency with AutoCAD Civil 3D and CAD-based design.
• Excellent communication, decision-making, and problem-solving abilities.

Preferred Qualifications:

• In-depth knowledge of California jurisdictional codes, standards, and regional processes.
• Strong negotiation skills and business acumen.
• Experience with both private land development and public agency projects.
• Demonstrated ability to balance technical oversight with client and business development responsibilities.

Why is This a Great Opportunity:

This isnt just a jobits a career-defining opportunity. As a Principal Project Engineer, youll gain influence over significant projects, shape future leaders, and help bring meaningful community developments to life.

Youll benefit from:

• Competitive Salary $125,000 to $160,000 annually (DOE).
• Generous Benefits Medical, Dental, Vision, Life & Disability Insurance.
• 401K & Profit Sharing invest in your long-term success.
• Paid Time Off & Work-Life Balance with flexible schedules.
• Career Growth & Mentorship lead, train, and inspire the next generation.
• Team-Oriented Culture holiday parties, team-building activities, and a collaborative environment.

This role is ideal for a strategic engineering leader who thrives on managing people, projects, and partnerships, while delivering exceptional results for the San Diego community.