Senior Resident Engineer ' Aviation

McFarland Johnson Inc.; Acton (MA); On-site; USD 125,000 - 165,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

ESOP ownership

401(k) match

Medical, dental & vision

Generous PTO

Professional development

Job summary

McFarland Johnson is seeking a Senior Resident Engineer with 12+ years of experience to oversee complex airport construction projects across the Northeast. The role involves leading field teams, coordinating with airport staff, and working with design and project management teams to ensure quality and schedule adherence.

The position offers opportunities on runway, taxiway, and apron improvements, with travel to multiple airports and a strong emphasis on field leadership and client relations.

Qualifications

• 12+ years in construction inspection or resident engineering.
• Experience leading field teams on complex civil projects.
• Airport construction experience preferred; highway experience valued.
• Ability to read/interpret drawings, specs, and contracts.
• FAA or state DOT knowledge preferred.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Willingness to travel across the Northeast.
• Bachelor's in Civil Engineering or related field; equivalent experience considered.
• PE registration or similar inspection certs are a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead onsite construction oversight to verify work complies with project plans and contract requirements.
• Serve as primary field contact for contractors, airport staff, inspection personnel, and MJ project teams.
• Direct and coordinate field inspection teams, providing mentorship and review of records.
• Oversee progress, workmanship, schedules, and material testing, resolving issues.
• Oversee daily field reports, photographs, and quantity measurements.
• Review contractor payment quantities and prepare payment recommendations.
• Lead RFIs, submittals, and change orders with project managers and design teams.

Skills

Field leadership

Construction oversight

Civil infrastructure

Read drawings

FAA knowledge

Communication

Mentoring

Travel readiness

PE license

Coordination

Contract administration

Education

Bachelors in Civil Eng

PE license desired

Job description

At McFarland Johnson (MJ), you'll own your future. We're a 100% employee-owned firm with 80 years of experience delivering innovative engineering, planning, environmental, technology, and construction solutions that make a lasting impact on the clients and communities we serve.

Certified as a Great Place to Work, our employee-owners describe MJ's culture as collaborative, people-focused, and supportive. Join us, and help shape the future of infrastructure, together.

MJ has successfully delivered airport projects for more than 80 years, with many clients returning through multi-year, open-end contracts-a testament to our service and lasting relationships. Our aviation practice serves dozens of airports, including general aviation, air-carrier, military, and dual-use facilities.

As our Aviation group continues to grow, we're seeking a Senior Resident Engineer with 12+ years of relevant experience to lead construction oversight for complex airport projects throughout the Northeast. This role offers the opportunity to serve as a primary field contact for airport clients and contractors, lead inspection teams, and work closely with MJ's project managers and design teams on runway, taxiway, apron, and other airport infrastructure improvements.

The position may be based in any of MJ's Northeast offices, with assignments at airports such as Boston Logan, Manchester-Boston Regional, Nantucket Memorial, and airports throughout Vermont and the surrounding region. Opportunities to support highway construction projects are also available through our One Company approach.

Responsibilities

• Lead onsite construction oversight to verify work complies with project plans, specifications, and contract requirements.
• Serve as a primary field contact for contractors, airport staff, inspection personnel, and MJ's project managers and design teams.
• Direct and coordinate field inspection teams, providing technical guidance, mentoring, and review of project documentation.
• Oversee construction progress, workmanship, schedules, and material testing, identifying potential issues and coordinating timely resolution.
• Oversee the preparation and review of daily field reports, photographs, quantity measurements, and other project records.
• Review contractor payment quantities and develop payment recommendations.
• Lead field coordination of RFIs, submittals, and change orders, working with project managers and design teams to evaluate technical, cost, and schedule impacts.
• Exercise sound judgment to resolve complex field issues, escalating matters as appropriate.
• Coordinate construction activities and phasing around ongoing airport operations to minimize disruptions.
• Lead construction progress meetings and coordinate punch lists, final inspections, and project closeout.

Qualifications

• 12+ years of experience in construction inspection, construction engineering, resident engineering, or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience leading field teams and overseeing complex civil infrastructure construction projects, including pavement, grading, drainage, utilities, or similar work.
• Airport construction experience strongly preferred; highway construction experience also valued.
• Strong ability to read, interpret, and apply engineering drawings, specifications, and construction contract documents.
• Familiarity with FAA or state DOT construction requirements preferred.
• Experience with construction contract administration, including payment reviews, RFIs, submittals, change orders, and project closeout.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills and the ability to build effective working relationships with clients, contractors, and project teams.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to make sound decisions independently in the field.
• Demonstrated ability to mentor inspection staff and coordinate multiple construction activities.
• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or a related discipline preferred. Candidates with equivalent relevant experience will also be considered.
• PE registration or applicable inspection certifications are a plus.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel to project sites throughout the Northeast.

Field Assignments

Assignments vary based on project needs and may require extended stays near project sites. Night and weekend work may be necessary to accommodate construction schedules and airport operations.

Transportation, lodging, and meal expenses are paid for project assignments. Overtime premium wages are provided.

MJ is committed to Equal Employment Opportunity and guided by our core values: Client Service, Sustainability, Entrepreneurial, Innovation, One Company, and Employee Engagement.

Why Join MJ?

• Be part of an award-winning, employee-owned firm that values innovation and client-focused service.
• Collaborate with a diverse team of experts committed to delivering sustainable infrastructure solutions.
• Enjoy a supportive, growth-oriented work environment with opportunities for professional development.
• Enjoy flexible schedules, generous PTO, and a culture that values balance so you can thrive both professionally and personally.
• Mentor emerging talent, share your expertise, and help shape the continued growth of MJ's aviation construction services.

What We Offer

• Compensation: $125,000'$165,000 annually, plus eligibility for a performance-based incentive/bonus plan.
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental & vision insurance.
• Generous paid time off, including paid parental leave.
• Fully contributed Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).
• 401(k) match.
• Technical training and professional development opportunities.