Pipeline Client Service Manager/Project Manager

Kennedy Jenks; Chesapeake (VA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k)

Bonus opportunities

Tuition reimbursement

Competitive PTO and holidays

Job summary

Kennedy Jenks is seeking an experienced Senior Pipeline Project Manager in Chesapeake, Virginia to oversee water and wastewater pipeline projects. The ideal candidate will lead multidisciplinary teams, manage relationships with clients, and ensure project success from planning to delivery.

This role requires strong technical knowledge and at least 10 years of experience in pipeline management. Benefits include comprehensive insurance packages, a hybrid work model, and a commitment to employee well-being.

Qualifications

• 10–15+ years of experience in managing pipeline and conveyance projects.
• Strong technical knowledge of water and wastewater pipeline systems.
• Experience managing project budgets and schedules.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage water and wastewater pipeline projects from planning to closeout.
• Oversee multidisciplinary project teams and project management responsibilities.
• Act as a trusted advisor to clients and support business development.

Skills

Project Management

Leadership

Water and Wastewater Systems

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Civil, Environmental, or Mechanical Engineering

Professional Engineer (PE) license

Tools

Hydraulic Modeling Software

Pipeline Design Tools

Job description

Founded in 1919, KJ has always looked to the future. With a talented team of professionals and a culture of continuous improvement, we deliver exceptional engineering, environmental consulting, and construction management services, with a focus on innovation and sustainability. Using advanced analytics, technology, and tools, KJ improves designs, reduces risk, and finds better ways to deliver projects from planning through construction. KJ is at the forefront of developing sustainable solutions for clients, including green infrastructure design, strategies to reduce energy use and environmental impacts, award‑winning water reuse projects, and efficient construction management practices that ensure quality, safety, and on‑time delivery. We are known for our dedication to industry‑leading client service and tailored solutions.

Kennedy Jenks is seeking an experienced Senior Pipeline Project Manager to join our growing water and wastewater practice. This role is ideal for a technically strong leader who enjoys balancing project delivery, client relationships, business growth, and team development. You will play a key role in advancing complex pipeline projects while helping grow our market presence and mentoring the next generation of engineers.

This position offers the opportunity to lead high‑impact conveyance and pipeline infrastructure projects—including water transmission, wastewater collection, rehabilitation, and pump station‑related systems—while working closely with clients, internal technical teams, and stakeholders. We are looking for someone who brings both technical credibility and strategic leadership, and who values collaboration, inclusion, and building strong teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as Project Manager and technical leader for small to large water and wastewater pipeline projects, from planning and design through construction and closeout.
• Lead and coordinate multidisciplinary project teams delivering conveyance infrastructure including water transmission pipelines, sanitary sewer systems, rehabilitation projects, and related facilities.
• Oversee pipeline planning, alignment studies, hydraulic analyses, condition assessments, rehabilitation strategies, and new pipeline design, ensuring compliance with applicable codes, standards, and regulations.
• Perform and oversee project management responsibilities including scope development, fee proposals, contract negotiation, budget and schedule management, quality control, and risk mitigation.
• Provide construction phase services, including review of submittals, responses to RFIs, coordination with contractors, and support through commissioning and closeout.
• Act as a trusted advisor to clients, maintaining strong relationships and delivering high‑quality, responsive service.
• Support and lead business development efforts, including client positioning, proposal development, interviews, and participation in industry conferences and stakeholder meetings.
• Mentor, supervise, and develop junior and mid‑level engineers, fostering technical growth, leadership skills, and a collaborative team culture.
• Contribute to internal standards, best practices, and continuous improvement in pipeline design, project delivery, and asset management approaches.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil, Environmental, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field (Master’s preferred).
• Professional Engineer (PE) license required (ability to obtain additional state licensure as needed).
• 10–15+ years of experience in water and wastewater infrastructure, with significant experience managing pipeline and conveyance projects.
• Strong technical knowledge of water and wastewater pipeline systems, including design, analysis, rehabilitation, and construction support.
• Experience with hydraulic modeling and pipeline design tools preferred.
• Demonstrated success managing project budgets, schedules, and multidisciplinary teams.
• Proven ability to support or lead business development and maintain strong client relationships.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical concepts clearly.
• Collaborative leadership style with a commitment to mentoring, inclusion, and team development.
• Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.

Kennedy Jenks supports a healthy work‑life balance and utilizes a hybrid work model to empower our people to thrive. You’ll have the opportunity to work on meaningful infrastructure projects that directly impact communities, while growing your career in a firm that values technical excellence, leadership, and people‑first culture.

Benefits Summary

Medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, 401(k), bonus opportunities, tuition reimbursement, professional registration support, competitive PTO and holidays, and more.

Kennedy Jenks is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, pregnancy and pregnancy‑related conditions, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, marital status, disability, citizenship status, genetics, protected veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by applicable law.