Senior Resident Engineer ' Aviation

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

Benefits offered by this job

ESOP

Job summary

McFarland Johnson is seeking a Senior Resident Engineer to lead construction oversight for complex airport projects across the Northeast. You will act as primary field contact for clients and contractors, guide inspection teams, and collaborate with project managers and design teams on runway, taxiway, and other airport infrastructure improvements.

Field assignments may require extended stays near sites; travel across the Northeast is expected.

Qualifications

• 12+ years in construction inspection or related field.
• Experience leading field teams on complex civil infra projects.
• Airport construction experience preferred; highway construction experience valued.
• Ability to read and apply engineering drawings and specifications.
• Familiarity with FAA or state DOT construction requirements preferred.
• Experience with construction contract administration (payments, RFIs, submittals, change orders).
• Strong verbal and written communication and teamwork skills.
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience; Civil Engineering/Construction Management preferred.
• PE registration or inspection certifications a plus.
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel to Northeast sites.

Responsibilities

• Lead onsite construction oversight to verify work complies with project plans, specifications, and contract requirements.
• Serve as 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 and review of project documentation.
• Oversee construction progress, schedules, and material testing; identify issues and coordinate resolution.
• Oversee daily field reports, photos, quantity measurements, and project records.
• Review contractor payment quantities and develop payment recommendations.
• Lead RFIs, submittals, and change orders; evaluate technical, cost, and schedule impacts.
• Resolve complex field issues; escalate when needed.
• Coordinate construction activities and phasing around airport operations to minimize disruptions.
• Lead progress meetings and coordinate punch lists, final inspections, and closeout.

Skills

Experience leading field teams

Airport construction experience

Read/interpret engineering drawings

Contract administration

Strong communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or Construction Management

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.

Join Us and Make a Difference

Join a team where your work has purpose, your ideas are valued, and your growth is personal. #ownyourfuture.