Design Leader - Land Development (Residential)

Pape-Dawson Engineers; Orlando (FL); On-site; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Pape-Dawson Engineers in Orlando is seeking an experienced civil engineer to lead the design of complex infrastructure projects across all phases. The role offers mentorship to engineers and production staff, with emphasis on technical leadership and quality.

The position requires a BS in Civil Engineering, a PE license, and 10+ years of progressive experience. You will engage clients and agencies, oversee proposals and budgets, and help set internal design standards, while coordinating with

Qualifications

• BS in Civil Engineering or related field.
• Licensed Professional Engineer (P.E.).
• 10+ years of progressive engineering experience.
• Proven ability to mentor and lead complex infrastructure projects.
• Excellent written and verbal communication; engage clients and agencies.
• Overtime as needed; Mon-Fri 8am-5pm standard.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee the design process for complex engineering projects across all phases.
• Provide advanced technical leadership and mentorship to engineers, designers, and production staff.
• Review design approaches, engineering calculations, technical reports, and project deliverables for quality and compliance with standards.
• Coordinate with project managers to support scope development, schedules, budgets, and resource planning for multiple concurrent projects.
• Review proposals, budgets, and client agreements for technical alignment with project objectives and firm capabilities.
• Contribute to the development, refinement, and implementation of internal design standards, tools, and best practices.
• Promote innovation by evaluating and implementing new design ideas, technologies, and methodologies.
• Represent the firm in meetings with clients, agencies, and stakeholders, supporting business development and long-term client relationships.
• Actively participate in professional associations and community/civic organizations to advance industry leadership.
• Set the tone for a strong design culture that balances creativity, precision, accountability, and the firm's core values.

Skills

Technical Leadership

Mentorship

Design Leadership

Client Engagement

Communication

Education

Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering

Job description

Join Pape-Dawson's Orlando team in the heart of the vibrant Milk District, one of the city's most creative and energetic neighborhoods. Established through the acquisition of Poulos & Bennett, our Orlando office brings together a close-knit, team-focused culture with deep technical expertise and a strong reputation for guiding complex projects from initial vision and site selection through design, permitting, and final delivery. Team members have the opportunity to collaborate with experienced professionals while enjoying an office location surrounded by local restaurants, coffee shops, entertainment, and everything that makes Central Orlando an exciting place to live and work.

Overview

Our Orlando team supports an impressive range of projects across one of the country's fastest-growing regions, including large-scale master-planned and mixed-use communities, single-family developments, retail centers, industrial facilities, institutional campuses, and power-sector projects. With meaningful work, strong mentorship, and the opportunity to help shape communities throughout Central Florida, this office offers an ideal environment for professionals looking to grow their careers and make a visible impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee the design process for complex engineering projects across all phases, ensuring technical accuracy, constructability, and consistency with company standards.
• Provide advanced technical leadership, mentorship, and on-the-job training to elevate the capabilities of engineers, designers, and production staff.
• Review and guide design approaches, engineering calculations, technical reports, and project deliverables to ensure quality and compliance with applicable standards.
• Coordinate with project managers to support scope development, schedules, budgets, and resource planning for multiple concurrent projects.
• Review proposals, budgets, and client agreements for technical alignment with project objectives and firm capabilities.
• Contribute to the development, refinement, and implementation of internal design standards, tools, and best practices.
• Promote innovation by evaluating and implementing new design ideas, technologies, and methodologies.
• Represent the firm in meetings with clients, agencies, and stakeholders, supporting business development and long-term client relationships.
• Actively participate in professional associations and community or civic organizations to advance industry leadership and company visibility.
• Set the tone for a strong design culture that balances creativity, precision, accountability, and the firm's core values.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering or related field.
• Licensed Professional Engineer (P.E.).
• Minimum 10 years of progressive engineering experience managing and leading complex infrastructure projects.
• Demonstrated expertise in advanced technical design and multidisciplinary team leadership.
• Proven ability to mentor and develop technical staff while maintaining high standards of quality and accountability.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively engage clients, agencies, and internal teams.
• Active involvement in professional organizations and industry or community initiatives.
• Ability to work Monday - Friday, 8am - 5pm with overtime as needed.

If you need an accommodation or assistance with completing your application due to a disability or special need, please contact our team at [e-mail] or call [phone].

EEO Statement: All qualified applicants for Pape-Dawson Engineers will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.