Project Manager (Water/ Wastewater)

Cochran Engineering; Union (MO); On-site; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Cochran is seeking an experienced, licensed Professional Engineer (PE) to join as a Water/Wastewater Project Manager in Missouri. The role leads planning, design, permitting, and construction administration for water and wastewater projects, with strong client relationships and regulatory coordination.

Ideal candidates bring 6+ years in water/wastewater engineering, at least 2 years in project management, and proficiency in AutoCAD and Civil 3D.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Civil or Environmental Engineering.
• Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) required.
• 6+ years in water/wastewater engineering, with at least 2 years in a PM role.
• Proven track record managing municipal or utility projects from concept through construction.
• Strong knowledge of permitting processes (DNR, EPA, MoDOT, etc.).
• Proficient in AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and engineering design software.
• Excellent organizational, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities.

Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, design, and execution of water distribution, wastewater collection, and treatment projects.
• Prepare engineering reports, design calculations, technical specifications, and construction documents.
• Oversee project schedules, budgets, and resources for successful delivery.
• Serve as primary contact with clients, regulatory agencies, and subconsultants.
• Conduct site visits, support construction oversight, and respond to RFIs/submittals.
• Mentor and supervise junior engineers and technical staff.
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations and engineering standards.

Skills

Project management

Water/wastewater engineering

Regulatory knowledge

AutoCAD

Civil 3D

Communication skills

Mentoring

Budgeting

Client relations

Education

Bachelor's degree in Civil or Environmental Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD

Civil 3D

Job description

Cochran is a growing civil engineering firm with 7 Missouri offices, offering services in construction administration, materials testing, architectural and geotechnical engineering, and land surveying. Serving both public and private sectors, Cochran's expertise spans municipal, commercial, residential, transportation, water/wastewater, site development, retail, planning, and interior design. With 120+ professionals, the firm delivers tailored solutions backed by deep expertise and is guided by core values of teamwork, excellence, quality, and trust- ensuring principal involvement and outstanding service throughout every project.

Position Overview

• We are seeking an experienced and licensed Professional Engineer (PE) to join our team as a Water/Wastewater Project Manager. This role is responsible for leading and managing a variety of water and wastewater projects, including planning, design, permitting, and construction administration. The ideal candidate will have strong technical expertise, excellent communication skills, and a proven ability to manage projects and client relationships.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, design, and execution of water distribution, wastewater collection, and treatment projects
• Prepare engineering reports, design calculations, technical specifications, and construction documents
• Oversee and coordinate project schedules, budgets, and resources to ensure successful project delivery
• Serve as the primary point of contact with clients, regulatory agencies, and subconsultants
• Conduct site visits, support construction oversight, and respond to RFIs and submittals
• Mentor and supervise junior engineers and technical staff
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations and engineering standards

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Civil or Environmental Engineering
• Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) required
• 6+ years of experience in water/wastewater engineering, with at least 2 years in a project management role
• Proven track record of managing municipal or utility projects from concept through construction
• Strong knowledge of regulatory requirements and permitting processes (e.g., DNR, EPA, MoDOT, etc.)
• Proficient in AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and engineering design software
• Excellent organizational, verbal, and written communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with municipalities and public utility clients
• Familiarity with funding mechanisms and grant applications for infrastructure projects
• Strong business development acumen and client relationship skills