Project Engineer

Kitchell; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading construction management firm is seeking multiple experienced Project Engineers for positions in Southern California, specifically Los Angeles. The role includes providing technical and administrative support for construction activities, assisting in coordination and change order processes. Candidates should have 2–5 years of relevant experience, a high school diploma or equivalent, and preferably have experience with DSA projects. The position offers a salary range of $75,000 – $95,000 annually.

Qualifications

• 2–5 years of recent professional work experience in a similar position.
• Experience on Division of State Architect (DSA) projects preferred.
• Valid driver's license with an acceptable motor vehicle record.

Responsibilities

• Provide on‑site technical and administrative support for construction activities.
• Assist in field coordination, documentation, and construction tracking.
• Review and process construction change orders and field orders.

Skills

Fast-paced decision making

Construction management

Building Information Modeling (BIM)

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Associate degree in Construction Technology or related field

Job description

Brief Description

Kitchell seeks multiple experienced and dedicated Project Engineer positions to join our Southern California region in Los Angeles.

Overview

Assist with PM/CM services under Division of State Architect (DSA) guidelines in the Community College Construction Market Sector, from pre‑construction through closeout.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide on‑site technical and administrative support for construction activities at district facilities.
• Assist Project Managers and Admin Staff with field coordination, documentation, inspections, and tracking of construction progress.
• Support monitoring of contractor performance, safety compliance, and quality standards.
• Assist with closeout documentation, punch lists, and coordination with school sites and district staff to minimize operational impacts during construction.
• Read and interpret construction plans and shop drawings.
• Assist in preparing written materials including correspondence, reports, procedures, and guidelines.
• Review, estimate, negotiate, and process construction change orders and field orders.
• Review and enforce construction and professional services contracts.
• Manage and direct contractors and outside consultants, including reviewing and approving invoices.
• Assess project risks and develop risk registers with mitigation strategies.
• Facilitate resolution of construction and design issues.
• Coordinate with architects for timely and accurate responses to requests for information, submittals, and construction change documents.
• Generate and distribute meeting minutes (construction meetings, design meetings, etc.).
• Confirm contractor’s maintenance of record drawings prior to monthly progress payments.
• Maintain project files in both electronic and paper format.
• Review submittals for conformance to plans and specifications.
• Prepare project status reports.
• Perform other related duties or projects as assigned.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent required (associate degree or coursework in Construction Technology, Facilities Management, or related field is preferred).
• 2–5 years of recent professional work experience in a similar or equivalent position involved in project or construction management.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced environment and take initiative, making sound decisions.
• Experience on Division of State Architect (DSA) projects strongly preferred.
• Experience utilizing Building Information Modeling (BIM) preferred.
• Experience with alternative delivery methods preferred.

Knowledge and Skills

Knowledge of all parts of the project life cycle, including master planning, design, and closeout is preferred.

License and Certifications

• Valid driver’s license with an acceptable motor vehicle record, free from suspensions or restrictions.
• OSHA 30 certified preferred.

Work Environment

The employee will regularly work in an office and/or construction environment, with exposure to outdoor elements, temperature extremes, wet conditions, noise, and cramped quarters. The noise level is occasionally loud.

Physical Requirements

The employee must frequently sit, stand, walk, talk, or hear with use of hands; frequently reach with hands and arms; occasionally climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. Specific vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. Must frequently lift and/or move 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

Travel Requirements

Work will be performed at campus locations within the Los Angeles area.

Equal Opportunity Statement & Salary

Kitchell is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and will consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability status.

The annual base salary range for this role is currently $75,000 – $95,000 and may vary based on factors such as level, location, and market data.