Trenchless Engineer

HDR; Vienna (VA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

HDR is seeking a Trenchless Engineer to provide support for trenchless design and construction across various sectors. The role includes project management, analysis, and client communication, requiring extensive travel for field assignments.

The ideal candidate will have at least 10 years of experience with technologies such as Horizontal Directional Drilling and a professional engineering license. Strong communication, project management skills, and proficiency in AutoCAD are crucial for success in this role.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of professional engineering experience with trenchless techniques.
• PMP Certification preferred for project management roles.
• Strong writing skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel.

Responsibilities

• Support design and construction oversight for trenchless projects.
• Perform route selection and feasibility analysis for trenchless construction.
• Communicate project status and technical discussions with clients.

Skills

Project Management

Trenchless construction methods

Client communication

Software modeling

Data management

Technical writing

Accountability

Autonomous work

Interpersonal skills

Education

Bachelor's degree

Professional engineering license (PE or equivalent)

Tools

AutoCAD Civil 3D

Microsoft Office

MicroStation

Bentley suite of geotechnical software

GeoStudio/Ensoft

Job description

Trenchless Engineer

The Trenchless Engineer will report to the Trenchless Services Engineering Lead and will support the design, construction, and field operations of trenchless projects across a variety of sectors. Responsibilities include analysis, design, construction oversight, data management, client communication, and project management. Extensive travel may be required to support field-based assignments.

Responsibilities

• Perform desktop route selection and evaluate feasibility for trenchless design and construction.
• Carry out site reconnaissance visits and develop subsurface investigation programs.
• Evaluate surface and subsurface conditions to determine feasibility and preferred construction techniques.
• Interface with discipline leads and production staff to support development of trenchless design deliverables.
• Communicate regularly with clients regarding project status and technical discussions.
• Estimate quantities of materials used and disposed of, and estimate installation loading and stress for trenchless pipeline installations.
• Assess and select appropriate trenchless technologies such as Horizontal Directional Drilling, microtunneling, and Direct Pipe®.
• Perform calculations for carrier pipe and coating specifications.
• Define workspace requirements for construction equipment at trenchless crossing locations.
• Prepare or review project documentation including specifications, bid packages, drawings, reports, and data sets.
• Build and use software models for trenchless pipeline design.
• Develop permit application documents and drawings.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards and governing codes.
• Prepare field engineering and as-built documents.
• Contribute to department standards and procedures and provide lessons learned.
• Apply HDR’s PMO processes and work in alignment with client delivery goals.
• Establish and execute workflow for all trenchless engineering, design, subcontracted services, and construction applications.
• Procure and coordinate with subconsultants providing services to trenchless projects.
• Perform construction oversight and monitoring of daily construction activities, identifying issues and proposing solutions.

Preferred Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of professional engineering experience, preferably with Horizontal Directional Drilling, microtunneling, and/or Direct Pipe®.
• Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification.
• Experience with AutoCAD Civil 3D.
• Experience in a remote work environment.
• Knowledge of trenchless construction methods.
• Team-oriented with strong accountability and reliability.
• Strong writing and computer skills, including Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Ability to handle multiple assignments, manage time, and prioritize tasks independently to meet deadlines.
• Self‑motivated and able to work autonomously while maintaining frequent communication across offices.
• Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Travel is required; frequency and duration may be extensive.
• Subject to a pre‑employment drug test.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree.
• Professional engineering license (PE or equivalent) recognized in the location of the position.
• Experience with Microsoft Office, MicroStation, or similar software.
• Experience with GeoStudio/Ensoft slope stability, settlement, seepage, and deep foundation response software.
• Experience with Bentley suite of geotechnical data management and visualization software (gINT/OpenGround/LeapFrog).
• Commitment to being an active participant in an employee‑owned culture.

HDR is an affirmative‑action and equal‑opportunity employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.