Design Specialist

A Design Specialist at HBK Engineering is a position that combines advanced technical expertise with comprehensive project management responsibilities. This senior-level role requires applying broad knowledge of engineering principles and practices while acting as a team lead in coordinating detailed design phases for all aspects of utility engineering work. Crucially, candidates must possess direct experience with BG&E (Baltimore Gas and Electric) standards and systems to ensure project compliance and technical accuracy.

The position involves extensive client interface on engineering and project management topics, including project scope, schedule, budget, and invoices. The Design Specialist is responsible for managing project finances to ensure completion within budget and on time, representing a critical leadership anchor within the regional engineering team.

• Apply broad knowledge of engineering principles and practices to ensure design compliance with relevant specifications, codes, and client requirements
• Independently evaluate, select, and adapt standard techniques, procedures, and criteria to address unique and complex electrical, structural, civil, and construction-related challenges
• Act as team lead in coordinating detailed design phases for all aspects of utility engineering work
• Coach and mentor entry-level staff in their professional development
• Perform quality control reviews of engineering designs under the oversight of professional engineering staff
• Interface with clients to discuss engineering and project management topics including project scope, schedule, budget, and invoices
• Assist in the development of project scope for proposals, contracts, and cost estimates
• Schedule and coordinate design work including relevant field support to ensure projects are completed on time
• Develop and track project finances to ensure projects are completed within budget
• Own all phases of the design lifecycle from project initiation through construction completion and closeout
• Prepare reports and studies that present technical information clearly and concisely to meet client requirements
• Work with project management and engineering leadership to manage project risk
• Communicate complex engineering matters to internal project management, engineering leadership, and field resources
• Independently manage time and schedule to achieve project milestones
• Perform field walkdowns with internal staff, clients, customers, governance authorities, and construction partners
• Travel as needed, typically less than 25%

• Associate degree in a related technical field (preferred)
• Related technical certificates in CADD and related software platforms (preferred)
• 10+ years of relevant experience
• US driver's license and US work authorization
• Ability to work independently and in interdisciplinary teams
• Strong technology skills and understanding of the Office
  365 suite of tools
• In-depth knowledge of 2D CADD software (AutoCAD or similar) including generating layout drawings and project materials
• Experience reviewing drawings or engineering materials developed by others
• Staff management and team oversight experience
• Training and mentoring experience with entry- and mid-level staff
• Understanding of remote communication software
• Ability to quickly come up to speed on in-process projects and hit the ground running
• Experience collaborating with teams to complete larger projects
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills suited for both internal and external conversations
• Active management experience with project scope, schedule, and budget
• Persistence to see projects through to completion
• Adaptability to change in a dynamic team environment.

• Senior leadership opportunities combining technical expertise with project management
• Direct client interface responsibilities including budget and schedule discussions
• Professional growth within the HBK Organization's senior Design Track
• Opportunity to lead coordination of complex utility engineering projects with full lifecycle ownership
• Project financial management and proposal development experience
• Team leadership and mentoring responsibilities
• Collaborative work environment with project management and engineering leadership
• Travel opportunities for field work and client engagement
• Career advancement opportunities in senior design and project management roles.