Job Description

Job Description

Project Engineer – Heavy Civil

📍 Chicago, IL

We’re hiring an Engineer on behalf of a leading heavy civil contractor in Chicago. This role is ideal for a graduate or early-career engineer (1–5 years’ experience) who wants to gain exposure to all aspects of public works infrastructure and underground utilities.

About the Company

This contractor specializes in public works and underground construction , delivering projects such as:

• Water & sewer transmission pipelines
• Pump stations
• Water & wastewater treatment facilities
• Other underground utility infrastructure for municipalities across the Chicago Area

With a reputation for technical excellence and collaborative project delivery, they offer a career path that combines hands-on engineering with leadership development.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed cost estimates from conceptual through final design stages.
• Track bid progress, update takeoff quantities, and prepare pricing reports.
• Review and analyze drawings, specifications, and addenda for scope and constructability.
• Perform quantity takeoffs and pricing for sitework, utilities, structures, and civil components.
• Support value engineering efforts and identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Prepare and track subcontractor and supplier quotations.
• Review contract documents to ensure scope alignment and compliance.
• Maintain detailed estimate documentation and cost history databases.
• Order and manage bid documents, addenda, and plan sets.
• Coordinate with subcontractors and vendors to obtain accurate pricing and ensure timely bid submissions.
• Interface with owners, engineers, and municipal agencies to clarify scope and resolve pre-bid questions.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, and industry partners.
• Assist the Project Manager and field teams during project handoff, ensuring seamless transition from estimating to construction.
• Participate in bid reviews, scope meetings, and post-bid evaluations.
• Support risk assessments and develop contingencies for unique project conditions (e.g., dewatering, shoring, or geotechnical challenges).
• Assist the Project Manager in delivering projects on time and on budget
• Track progress, update schedules, and prepare project reports
• Review and process submittals, shop drawings, and RFIs
• Perform geotechnical reviews and analysis (trench stability, shoring, dewatering, etc.) for underground utility work
• Support quality control and testing requirements
• Prepare and track change orders
• Review contract documents and specifications to ensure compliance
• Maintain detailed project documentation
• Order and track project materials, equipment, and supplies
• Coordinate with subcontractors and suppliers to ensure timely delivery
• Interface directly with municipal owners, inspectors, and agencies throughout the Chicagoland area
• Maintain strong professional relationships with owners, engineers, subcontractors, and field teams

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or related field
• 1–5 years of relevant experience (internships or full-time) in construction preferred
• Strong understanding of civil principles and interest in underground construction
• Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to thrive in a public works contracting environment with multiple stakeholders

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary $70,000 - $120,000
• Company vehicle + fuel card
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Health & dental insurance
• Long-term career growth opportunities with a respected contractor

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