Design Engineer - Land Development

BKF Engineers; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive base salary

End-of-year bonuses

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

Generous vacation and sick time

Flexible schedules

Education reimbursement

Job summary

A multi-service infrastructure consulting firm is seeking a Design Engineer in San Jose, CA. The candidate will support land development projects, collaborating with seasoned engineers. Responsibilities include assisting in site plan designs, preparing grading plans, and engaging in project management tasks. A Bachelor's in Civil Engineering is required, along with strong communication skills. The position offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits.

Qualifications

• 0–3 years of experience in site development and design.
• EIT or FE certification preferred.
• Familiarity with preparing documents and design plans.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the design of site plans for various projects.
• Prepare grading and drainage plans using AutoCAD/Civil 3D.
• Support preparation of engineering reports and feasibility studies.

Skills

Strong verbal and written communication

Collaboration skills

AutoCAD Civil 3D

Education

Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD/Civil 3D

Job description

Company Overview

BKF is a multi‑service infrastructure consulting firm providing civil engineering and surveying services across California, the Pacific Northwest, and beyond. With offices throughout California and the Portland area, BKF has served transportation, water resources, land development, government, and federal clients for over 110 years.

Base Pay Range

$70,000.00/yr - $100,000.00/yr

Job Summary

We are looking for a Design Engineer with a couple years of experience in civil infrastructure design to join our collaborative onsite team in the California Bay Area. In this role, you will support Land Development projects, working alongside seasoned engineers to prepare designs using standard techniques and sound judgment. You will contribute to a variety of assignments — from concept through construction documentation — while gaining hands‑on experience and growing within a supportive team.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the design and development of site plans for residential, commercial, mixed‑use, roadway, highway, and public works projects.
• Prepare grading and drainage plans and designs using AutoCAD/Civil 3D and standard engineering practices.
• Create designs and plans for land development projects, including potable water distribution and wastewater collection systems, in accordance with local standards and permitting requirements.
• Participate in internal design reviews and contribute to project scheduling and task prioritization.
• Support the preparation of engineering reports, feasibility studies, and master planning documents for various development projects.
• Develop technical specifications and detailed cost estimates to support project proposals and construction documentation.
• Collaborate daily with project engineers and stakeholders to coordinate design efforts and meet project milestones.
• Review plans and calculations for accuracy, completeness, and constructability, incorporating feedback from senior staff and clients.

Requirements

• Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering or related field from an ABET‑accredited curriculum.
• 0–3 years of experience in site development and design of residential/commercial subdivisions, utility systems, roadways, and public works.
• Strong verbal and written communication and collaboration skills.
• Experience with AutoCAD Civil 3D is a plus.
• EIT or FE certification preferred.
• Familiarity with preparing documents, specifications, and design plans.
• Exposure to public agency standards and permitting processes.
• Ability to apply standard engineering techniques and judgment to support projects.

Physical Demands
Must be able to regularly talk, hear and operate a computer, keyboard and mouse and occasionally lift, pull/push and carry up to 20 pounds with accommodations.

Work Conditions
Exposure to constant or intermittent sounds at a low or moderate level consistent with an office setting. Exposure to high‑stress, fast‑paced, deadline‑oriented environment. Travel to other BKF locations and client sites may be required.

Benefits

• Competitive base salary ($75,000.00 – $100,000.00/year), paid biweekly.
• End‑of‑year bonuses, profit sharing, and 401(k).
• BKF pays 100% of premiums for medical, dental, and vision coverage; 50% for dependents.
• Generous vacation and sick time packages.
• 8 paid holidays.
• Flexible schedules.
• Education reimbursement and paid annual dues for professional and societal organizations.

BKF Engineers provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by law.