Construction Observer/Engineering Technician

Civil-Design-Inc.; Effingham (IL); On-site; USD 33,062 - 52,348; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) match

HSA coverage

Annual HSA contributions

Competitive PTO

Volunteer time off

Job summary

Civil Design, Inc. (CDI) invites qualified candidates to join our team as a Construction Observer/Engineering Technician in Illinois. You will monitor construction activities, perform field testing, and prepare daily reports, ensuring compliance with IDOT standards and project specifications.

The role emphasizes accuracy, safety, and timely communication with project teams. We seek candidates with an Associate degree or equivalent experience, strong communication skills, and proficiency in field

Qualifications

• Associate degree or equivalent experience in civil engineering technology, construction management, or related field.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills required.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and specifications.

Responsibilities

• Observe and document construction activities ensuring compliance with IDOT standards and project plans.
• Conduct field inspections, material testing, and quality control checks.
• Prepare daily site reports detailing conditions, contractor activities, and progress.
• Assist in measuring quantities for contractor payments and documentation.
• Communicate with contractors, project managers, and stakeholders to resolve issues and maintain schedules.
• Interpret drawings, specifications, and IDOT policies.
• Monitor safety and report concerns to relevant personnel.
• Support punch list creation and project closeout activities.

Skills

Reading engineering plans

Verbal & written communication

Travel flexibility

Education

Associate degree in Civil Engineering Technology or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

IDOT ICORS

Site Manager

Job description

Description

Civil Design, Inc. (CDI) is a multi-disciplined civil engineering firm offering civil site, structural, land surveying, and GIS services. Since its founding in 1996, our team has grown to over 150 team members with six locations. We operate in three states serving our six service lines - Infrastructure + Analytics, Site, Structures, Survey, Transportation, and Water Resources. We have office locations in Missouri – St. Louis and Jefferson City, Illinois – Collinsville and Effingham and Kentucky – Louisville and Prestonsburg.

We are looking for a Construction Observer/Engineering Technician to support our CDI mission in Building Stronger Communities. By contributing to projects and engaging with the team, you will support our mission and developing a better tomorrow.

Be a part of the CDI Mission:

The ideal candidate brings both project expertise and a people-first mindset—committed to collaboration and making a meaningful difference. CDI values a people-first culture and encourages flexible scheduling to help each team member reach their ideal work-life balance.

Job Description:

We are seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Engineering Technician/Construction Observer to join our team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for monitoring and documenting construction activities to ensure compliance with Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) standards, contract specifications, and engineering drawings. This position requires a strong understanding of roadway and infrastructure construction, materials testing, and quality assurance procedures.

Key Responsibilities:

• Observe and document construction activities, ensuring compliance with IDOT standards, project plans, and specifications.
• Conduct field inspections, material testing, and quality control checks.
• Prepare daily reports, including site conditions, contractor activities, and project progress.
• Assist in measuring and calculating quantities for contractor payments and project documentation.
• Communicate effectively with contractors, project managers, and stakeholders to resolve issues and maintain project schedules.
• Interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and IDOT policies and procedures.
• Monitor safety compliance and report any concerns to the appropriate personnel.
• Assist in punch list preparation and project closeout documentation.

Requirements

• Associate degree in Civil Engineering Technology, Construction Management, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Prior experience in construction observation, inspection, or materials testing, preferably with IDOT projects is preferred.
• Knowledge of IDOT Standard Specifications for Road and Bridge Construction and IDOT documentation procedures.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and field reporting software (e.g., IDOT ICORS, Site Manager).
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering plans and specifications.
• IDOT Documentation Certification, PCC Level I, HMA Level I, or other relevant certifications preferred.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to project sites as needed.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with surveying, CAD, or GIS applications.
• Knowledge of erosion control and stormwater management regulations.
• Familiarity with municipal or state construction projects.

Why Join CDI?

• Shared Ownership: As an ESOP, we offer our Team Members a direct stake in CDI’s success, empowering them to take initiative and contribute meaningfully.
• Enjoy Flexibility: We know life doesn’t follow a 9-5 schedule, so we offer flexible work options to help you balance your career and life.
• Work with Purpose: You'll engage in meaningful projects aligned with your passions and career goals, ensuring your work has a lasting impact.
• Collaboration and Celebration: We host frequent company-wide events, giving you the chance to connect and have fun with Team Members across our offices.
• People-First Culture: We prioritize your growth, well-being, and success, ensuring you have the support and opportunities to thrive both professionally and personally.

Our Culture and Beyond:

CDI’s culture remains foundational to our success as an organization. We believe mutual trust and respect comes first to ensure Team Members feel valued, heard and supported. We strive to unlock a Team Members full potential through continuous learning and growth, where you are empowered to embrace new challenge and thrive in a collaborative environment. Beyond the office, we’re committed to living out our mission of Building Stronger Communities. We offer volunteer time off to encourage team members to give back and make a lasting impact in the community.

Check out more about who we are here: https://www.civildesigninc.com/culture/

Below is a brief highlight of our benefits:

• 401(k) match for up to 4.5%
• 100% coverage on HSA and PPO plan options
• Annual HSA contributions
• Competitive PTO
• 8 hours of VTO (volunteer time off) annually

The anticipated base hourly rate for this position is $24.00-$38.40/hour. Compensation will vary based upon relevant experience, education, skill level, and other compensable factors.