Project Engineer

McAdams is a full-service land planning, landscape architecture, civil engineering, transportation, and geomatics firm located in North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas, and Florida. We seek to partner with our clients to create meaningful experiences through inspired design. Our employees are what make McAdams different. We bring experiences to the forefront of everything we do, and to do that takes special people.

Position Overview

The Project Engineer plays a crucial role in the successful execution of civil engineering projects by leading preliminary designs and conducting thorough site analyses. This position involves creating detailed plans for roadways, utilities, storm drainage, and grading while ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal regulations. The Project Engineer collaborates with interdisciplinary teams, manages regulatory submittals, and oversees project progress from concept to completion.

The role demands strong problem-solving skills, technical proficiency in design software like AutoCAD Civil 3D, and effective time management to meet project deadlines and deliver high-quality results.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the initial design phase of projects by accurately applying local and federal mapping, assessing drainage areas, and determining buildable areas in line with design standards. Demonstrate a thorough understanding of comprehensive lot layouts, local and state buffer zones, zoning regulations, and ordinance requirements.
• Conduct detailed site analysis by interpreting topographic data, as-built surveys, and construction staking to inform preliminary design. Perform initial sizing of Best Management Practices (BMPs), rough grading plans, and basic utility design. Ensure comprehensive site due diligence to identify potential constraints and opportunities.
• Design horizontal layouts for roadways and parking areas while adhering to project specifications and standards. Utilize AutoCAD Civil 3D for precision in preliminary layouts and drafting.
• Execute storm drainage designs using advanced software tools like Hydraflow. Prepare detailed storm drainage plans, calculate culvert designs, and perform gutter spread analyses to ensure proper water flow management and compliance with regulations.
• Engineer channel flow systems and velocity dissipaters using robust engineering principles. Compile and present thorough engineering analyses and design reports that meet company and regulatory standards.
• Develop comprehensive erosion control designs, including the design of sediment basins suitable for various site conditions. Conduct detailed calculations and create clear, company-standard reports to support the plans.
• Design and layout water distribution systems that incorporate essential components such as water meters, backflow preventers, fire department connections, and post indicator valves. Perform detailed water distribution analyses under multiple scenarios to optimize functionality and compliance.
• Design and layout sanitary sewer systems with a focus on local compliance and utility conflict resolution.
• Analyze existing systems, design pump stations and force mains, and collaborate effectively to address underground utility conflicts.
• Produce accurate grading plans, assess earthwork volumes, and conduct spot grading with attention to company standards. Ensure that accessible routes are properly graded and free of obstacles by conducting thorough accessibility reviews. Visit project sites as needed to verify existing conditions and refine designs.
• Perform horizontal and vertical design of roadway alignments, incorporating detailed pavement marking, signage layouts, and traffic control plans. Apply appropriate superelevation criteria for horizontal curves and create detailed intersection designs with precise curb return elevations.
• Engage effectively with other departments to facilitate seamless design integration. Attend coordination meetings to gather essential project details and maintain open communication with team members, making necessary plan adjustments as needed.
• Prepare and submit plans, calculations, and supporting documentation that meet the requirements of local and state governmental agencies. Complete all submittal applications and lead the project team to produce high-quality deliverables that align with company standards for design and CAD practices.
• Manage work hours effectively with a proactive approach, especially when project timelines are strict.
• Demonstrate a sense of urgency and efficiency to meet project deadlines without compromising quality.
• Perform other duties as assigned
• Skills + Experience
• Four-year bachelor’s degree from an accredited program in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Biological and Agricultural Engineering, Civil Engineering Technology, or related field required
• EI required; PE or on track to obtaining PE strongly preferred
• Minimum of 5+ years’ experience in civil site design or related field required
• Demonstrated expertise in AutoCAD Civil 3D is essential
• Strong understanding of local, state, and federal regulations related to land development, zoning, stormwater management, and permitting processes
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects concurrently, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing project demands. Experience in developing and tracking project schedules and budgets
• Exceptional analytical abilities to assess complex engineering challenges and develop effective, innovative solutions. Ability to anticipate project risks and proactively address them verbal and written communication skills for effectively coordinating with internal teams, clients, subconsultants, and regulatory bodies.
• Experience in leading meetings and preparing comprehensive reports is a plus
• Experience providing guidance, support, and mentorship to junior staff, fostering skill development and teamwork
• Proven ability to build and maintain strong client relationships by providing high-quality service, maintaining client satisfaction, and managing expectations
• High level of accuracy in preparing design documents, plans, and reports to meet company and client quality standards
• Work Environment + Physical Demands
• The characteristics described below are representative of those encountered while performing the essential functions of this position. When properly requested and when feasible (without undue hardship to the company), reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.
• Work will primarily be in an office setting with limited opportunities to be exposed to adverse environmental conditions.
• Work will be primarily working with fingers by picking, pinching, typing, and grasping often with repetitive motion.
• Must have visual acuity for viewing a computer screen, the ability to talk, hear and sit for extended periods of time.
• Must be able to carry, lift and push/pull up to 5 pounds frequently and up to 30 pounds occasionally.
• Additional physical duties may be required as necessary.
• McAdams is an equal opportunity employer.  All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard for race, color, religion, gender (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran's status, or any other legally protected status.
• If you need assistance with our online application system process, please contact the Human Resources Team at 919.361.5000 or hrteam@mcadamsco.com.
• Please read these notices for important information regarding applying for work with McAdams.
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