Senior Engineering Manager

Kier & Wright; Irvine (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Kier & Wright in Irvine, California, is seeking a Senior Engineering Manager responsible for overseeing project management and civil engineering tasks. The ideal candidate will manage relationships with clients, ensure project compliance, and lead project teams to success.

Applicants should possess a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, have 15+ years of experience, and demonstrate strong leadership and communication skills. This position requires expertise in AutoCAD Civil 3D and other relevant tools.

Qualifications

• Expertise in project management with 15+ years experience in land development.
• Professional Engineering License required.
• Strong client relations and proven project delivery.

Responsibilities

• Oversee project management duties ensuring KPIs are met.
• Design site grading and drainage systems.
• Communicate with clients and lead project teams.

Skills

Project Management

Site Grading Design

Client Communication

Risk Management

Team Leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering

15+ years of experience

Tools

AutoCAD Civil 3D

Microsoft Office

Bluebeam

Job description

Summary

The Senior Engineering Manager holds the highest level of responsibility and accountability. The success of a project is dependent on their expertise in project management, design and execution, client and employee relationships. This leadership role combines project responsibilities, internal operational responsibilities and marketing/business development responsibilities.

Responsibilities

Project Management

• Expert level knowledge and experience in all phases of project management. Responsible for all project KPIs.
• Project Initiation & Planning
• Contract & Proposal Management
• Budget & Cost Management
• Schedule Management
• Team & Resource Management
• Client & Stakeholder Communication
• Quality Assurance & Control
• Permitting & Regulatory Compliance
• Risk Management
• Project Closeout

Technical

• Manages a large book of business in excess of 1.5 million
• Independently designs site grading, drainage, utility systems, and stormwater infrastructure in accordance with jurisdictional standards and environmental regulations
• Prepares comprehensive civil engineering plans from concept through construction using AutoCAD Civil 3D and other relevant design tools
• Performs hydrologic and hydraulic calculations, develops SWPPPs, and prepares supporting engineering reports
• Uses modeling software to analyze utility systems, stormwater behavior, and water quality performance
• Develops and maintains construction drawings, CAD models, and technical exhibits to support design development and permitting
• Leads construction cost estimating and assists in constructability reviews to ensure feasibility and alignment with project budgets
• Reviews technical drawings, reports, and deliverables for accuracy, completeness, and regulatory compliance
• Leads QA/QC procedures throughout the project lifecycle and provides peer review support across engineering teams
• Guides junior staff by preparing constraint drawings and offering design input, particularly in resolving complex site or utility design challenges
• Ensures all entitlement and permitting documentation is complete, coordinated, and aligned with agency requirements

Coordination & Communication

• Act as primary point of contact for clients, agencies, and subconsultants
• Serves as primary point of contact for key clients and regulatory agencies
• Guides project staff in goal setting, accountability, and professional growth

Leadership & Mentoring

• Manages internal task delegation, ensuring deadlines and quality expectations are met
• Performs employee evaluations and skill development plans
• Mentors across the organization on best practices
• Contributes to internal initiatives and business planning
• May lead training initiatives on various technical topics
• May participate in succession planning efforts

Business Development & Marketing

• Builds and maintains long‑term relationships with clients
• Participates in industry events and/or client interviews
• Identifies opportunities for new clients and add‑on services
• Participates in strategy development to expand business
• Highly sought after by clients

Other duties as assigned

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or an equivalent level of experience
• Additional Experience/License
  • 15+ years of experience in land development with a Professional Engineering License
• Additional certifications are a plus, e.g. QSP, QSD, PMP
• General knowledge of computers, Microsoft Office, Adobe, Internet, etc.
• Experience with AutoCAD Civil 3D and Bluebeam, required. Additional software a plus, e.g. Agtek, StormCAD, Hydrology/hydraulic modeling software
• Proven record of successful project delivery and client satisfaction
• Strong client relationships with repeat business
• High‑level leadership and delegation
• Proven ability to bring in new clients and projects; expand business opportunities