Lead Capital Projects Engineer – Water Systems

Construction Association of Michigan; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

The Construction Association of Michigan is seeking a seasoned civil engineer to lead complex water system projects in Grand Rapids. You will supervise design, bid preparation, and construction activities, coordinating with city departments and external consultants to ensure timely, compliant project delivery.

Ideal candidates hold a PE license, have 4 years of professional engineering experience (2 in water systems), and can develop long-term capital plans while mentoring junior staff.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in civil, electrical, or mechanical engineering.
• Professional Engineer license required.
• Four (4) years of professional engineering experience, with two (2) years in city water systems.
• Any equivalent combination of training and experience.

Responsibilities

• Manage complex water system capital projects, including planning, design and construction.
• Collaborate with Engineering and city departments to oversee consultants, contractors, and vendors.
• Provide technical support and information as needed.
• Oversee operations and maintenance of water distribution facilities (pump stations, storage tanks, transmission mains).
• Manage maintenance of pumps, motors, valves, communications, and electrical systems.
• Coordinate engineering studies and data collection for cost estimates and scope development.
• Develop long-term capital and maintenance plans (5–20+ years).
• Create detailed workplans for outages involving transmission mains, pump stations, and storage facilities.
• Coordinate teams and develop alternative operation plans during system shutdowns.
• Prepare and manage the water distribution budget.
• Maintain asset inventory and develop maintenance plans for asset reliability.
• Assist Utility Engineering with planning, design, and review of water system improvements.
• Prepare requests for proposals and establish timelines for project completion.
• Review plans and specifications for compliance with city specs and strategic plans.
• Prioritize and mentor staff, provide training and leadership.

Education

Bachelor's degree in civil, electrical, or mechanical engineering

Job description

The Construction Association of Michigan is seeking a seasoned civil engineer to lead complex water system projects in Grand Rapids. You will supervise design, bid preparation, and construction activities, coordinating with city departments and external consultants to ensure timely, compliant project delivery.

Ideal candidates hold a PE license, have 4 years of professional engineering experience (2 in water systems), and can develop long-term capital plans while mentoring junior staff.