Underground Pipeline Project Engineer

BBSI; La Palma (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Company vehicle

Phone + Laptop

Paid time off

401(k) match

Career growth

Job summary

BBSI is seeking an Underground Pipeline Project Engineer to deliver critical water infrastructure projects across Southern California. This role combines field execution with coordination of design, procurement, and documentation to ensure safe, efficient project delivery.

The candidate should have 5–10+ years in heavy civil or underground utilities, experience with large-diameter pipelines and vaults, and strong familiarity with public agency standards and cost control practices.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or related field.
• 5–10+ years of experience in heavy civil construction or underground utility infrastructure.
• Proven experience with large-diameter pipelines (steel, cast/ductile iron).
• Experience with large underground concrete vaults and water utility structures.
• Strong knowledge of RFIs, submittals, change orders, and cost control.

Responsibilities

• Support construction of large-diameter pipelines (steel and cast/ductile iron).
• Coordinate installation of underground vaults, valve structures, and utilities.
• Manage field operations with Superintendents and Foremen; maintain schedules.
• Prepare RFIs, submittals, change orders, and project docs.
• Review drawings, specs, utility plans and shop drawings for constructability.

Skills

Field & office experience

Public works contracting knowledge

Cost control

Reading civil drawings

Education

Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or related field

Tools

Procore

Bluebeam

Primavera P6

Microsoft Project

AutoCAD

Job description

Full-Time | Direct Hire | Onsite & On the Field

Location: La Palma, CA (Project-Based Throughout Southern California)

BBSI is partnering with a well-established heavy civil contractor specializing in large-scale underground utility infrastructure and public works projects throughout Southern California. We are seeking an experienced Underground Pipeline Project Engineer to support the successful delivery of critical water infrastructure projects.

This is a hands-on opportunity for an engineer who thrives in the field and has direct experience with large-diameter steel and cast/ductile iron pipeline installations, underground concrete vaults, and complex utility infrastructure. You'll work closely with Project Managers, Superintendents, and Foremen to ensure projects are executed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with public agency standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the construction of large-diameter steel and cast/ductile iron water transmission pipelines
• Coordinate installation of large underground reinforced concrete vaults, valve structures, and utility infrastructure
• Work closely with Superintendents and Foremen to manage daily field operations and maintain project schedules
• Prepare and manage RFIs, submittals, change orders, and project documentation
• Review construction drawings, specifications, utility plans, and shop drawings for constructability
• Coordinate subcontractors, vendors, inspectors, surveyors, and utility agencies
• Track project costs, production quantities, and progress while identifying opportunities for cost savings
• Verify invoices, subcontractor pay applications, and material quantities
• Support QA/QC inspections and ensure compliance with contract documents and agency standards
• Assist with project planning, scheduling, procurement, and closeout activities
• Maintain strong communication with project stakeholders, owners, and engineering teams

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or related field (preferred)
• 5–10+ years of experience in heavy civil construction or underground utility infrastructure
• Proven experience installing large-diameter steel and cast/ductile iron pipelines
• Experience constructing large underground concrete vaults and water utility structures
• Strong background in public works and water infrastructure projects
• Experience with agencies such as California Department of Water Resources (DWR), Metropolitan Water District (MWD), municipal water districts, or similar public agencies is highly preferred
• Strong understanding of RFIs, submittals, change orders, cost control, and project documentation
• Experience working in both field and office environments
• Ability to read and interpret civil drawings, utility plans, and construction specifications

Preferred Experience

• Water transmission mains
• Pump stations
• Water treatment facilities
• Deep excavation and trenching
• Utility relocations
• Reinforced concrete structures
• Design-Build and CM/GC delivery methods

Knowledge & Skills

• Strong understanding of California Public Works contracting
• Experience with prevailing wage requirements, certified payroll, and union labor agreements
• Working knowledge of Caltrans, DWR, and public agency specifications
• Proficiency with Procore, Bluebeam, Primavera P6, Microsoft Project, AutoCAD, or similar construction software
• Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills
• Competitive base salary ($120,000–$150,000+ DOE)
• Company vehicle or vehicle allowance
• Company-issued phone and laptop
• Tools and technology needed to perform the job
• Paid Time Off and Holidays
• 401(k) with company match
• Long-term career growth with a respected heavy civil contractor