Project Engineer - Land Development

McAdams; Charlotte (NC); On-site; USD 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading civil engineering firm is seeking a Project Engineer - Land Development in Charlotte, NC. This role involves leading civil engineering projects, creating detailed designs for roadways and utilities, and ensuring compliance with regulations. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in civil engineering, particularly in land development, and be proficient in design software like AutoCAD Civil 3D.

Qualifications

• Four-year bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or related field required.
• Minimum of 5+ years’ experience in civil site design or related field.
• Expertise in AutoCAD Civil 3D is essential.

Responsibilities

• Lead the initial design phase of projects and conduct detailed site analyses.
• Design horizontal layouts for roadways and parking areas using AutoCAD.
• Prepare and submit plans to agencies, ensuring compliance with regulations.

Skills

AutoCAD Civil 3D

Stormwater Management

Zoning Regulations

Analytical Skills

Communication Skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering

Job description

Join to apply for the Project Engineer - Land Development role at McAdams

McAdams is a full-service land planning, landscape architecture, civil engineering, transportation, and geomatics firm located in North Carolina, Texas, and Florida. We seek a partnership with our clients to create meaningful experiences through inspired design. Our employees are what make McAdams different. We bring experiences to the forefront of everything we do, and to do that, takes special people.

Position Overview

The Project Engineer plays a crucial role in the successful execution of civil engineering projects by leading preliminary designs and conducting thorough site analyses. This position involves creating detailed plans for roadways, utilities, storm drainage, and grading while ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal regulations. The Project Engineer collaborates with interdisciplinary teams, manages regulatory submittals, and oversees project progress from concept to completion. The role demands strong problem-solving skills, technical proficiency in design software like AutoCAD Civil 3D, and effective time management to meet project deadlines and deliver high-quality results.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the initial design phase of projects by accurately applying local and federal mapping, assessing drainage areas, and determining buildable areas in line with design standards. Demonstrate a thorough understanding of comprehensive lot layouts, buffer zones, zoning regulations, and ordinance requirements.
• Conduct detailed site analysis by interpreting topographic data, as-built surveys, and construction staking. Perform initial sizing of BMPs, rough grading plans, and utility design, ensuring comprehensive site due diligence.
• Design horizontal layouts for roadways and parking areas using AutoCAD Civil 3D, adhering to project specifications and standards.
• Execute storm drainage designs with software like Hydraflow, preparing detailed plans, calculating culvert designs, and performing gutter spread analyses.
• Engineer channel flow systems and velocity dissipaters, compiling engineering analyses and reports that meet standards.
• Develop erosion control designs, including sediment basins, with detailed calculations and clear reports.
• Design water distribution systems with components such as meters, backflow preventers, and fire department connections, performing detailed analyses.
• Design sanitary sewer systems, resolving utility conflicts, and collaborating on pump stations and force mains.
• Produce grading plans, assess earthwork volumes, and conduct spot grading and accessibility reviews, verifying conditions on-site as needed.
• Perform horizontal and vertical roadway alignments, including pavement markings, signage, traffic control, and intersection design.
• Coordinate with other departments, attend meetings, and adjust plans as necessary.
• Prepare and submit plans, calculations, and documentation to agencies, ensuring compliance and quality standards.
• Manage work hours efficiently, demonstrating urgency and quality to meet deadlines.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills + Experience

• Four-year bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or related field from an accredited program.
• EI required; PE or on track to obtain PE preferred.
• Minimum of 5+ years’ experience in civil site design or related field.
• Expertise in AutoCAD Civil 3D is essential.
• Strong understanding of land development regulations, zoning, stormwater management, and permitting.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing demands.
• Exceptional analytical, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Experience in leading meetings, preparing reports, and mentoring junior staff is a plus.
• Ability to build and maintain client relationships.
• High accuracy in preparing design documents, plans, and reports.

Work Environment + Physical Demands

Work is primarily in an office setting with limited environmental exposure. Must have visual acuity, ability to sit, talk, hear, and perform repetitive motions. Capable of lifting up to 30 pounds and performing additional physical duties as necessary. Reasonable accommodations will be provided for individuals with disabilities.

McAdams is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration regardless of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or other protected status.

For assistance with the application process, contact Human Resources at 919.361.5000 or [e-mail].

Additional Information

• Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal
• E-Verify (English/Spanish)
• Right to Work (English/Spanish)

Seniority level

• Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Engineering and Information Technology

Industries

• Civil Engineering