Civil Engineer - Project Technical Leader​/Conveyance; SME

Job Description

CDM Smith is seeking an experienced Civil Engineer / Project Technical Leader to support and lead water‑related projects for a diverse client base. The ideal candidate will be capable of working independently while also leading multidisciplinary teams of engineers and scientists locally and across the West Coast. This role will support a portfolio of large‑diameter water, water reuse, and wastewater conveyance projects within our Water Services Group.

While water‑sector experience will be evaluated individually, experience in the areas listed below is strongly preferred.

• Develop, review, and approve basic to highly complex engineering designs for: conveyance systems, hydraulics and hydrology calculations, water distribution systems, collection systems, site layout development, site grading and drainage, storage tanks and impoundments, foundation designs, and stormwater infrastructure, water and wastewater treatment facilities, water and sewer systems, pipelines and pump station engineering.
• Ensure all project designs comply with state and local regulations.
• Apply firm policies, procedures, and best practices across all engineering deliverables.
• Conduct site visits, field reviews, and technical studies to verify design requirements and site‑specific conditions.
• Update project design criteria as needed throughout project development.
• Contribute to CDM Smith’s technical leadership by preparing and submitting technical papers, abstracts, and conference presentations.
• Collaborate with sales and client service teams to prepare proposals in response to Requests for Proposals (RFPs).
• Meet with current and prospective clients to understand and support their evolving design and project needs.
• Represent CDM Smith at conferences and professional symposia to enhance visibility and foster client relationships.
• Provide technical guidance, mentorship, and training to junior staff; delegate tasks effectively and support staff development within the discipline.

Bachelor’s degree in Civil, Environmental, or Mechanical Engineering or related discipline. Professional engineering (PE) license. 7 years of related experience. Domestic and/or international travel may be required. The frequency of travel is contingent on specific duties, responsibilities, and the essential functions of the position, which may vary depending on workload and project demands. Equivalent additional directly related experience will be considered in lieu of a degree.

• Team player, excellent written and verbal skills.
• Client‑focused and ability to partner with clients.
• Negotiation and presentation skills.

10%

• Demonstrated experience leading water‑related engineering projects.
• Proven ability to guide teams of engineers and scientists.
• Strong technical expertise in water and wastewater infrastructure design.
• Commitment to high‑quality work, client service, and professional development.
• Knowledge of computer assisted design and drafting (CADD) 3D and 4D software and practices.
• Knowledge of engineering principles of design.
• Knowledge of Microsoft business software (Excel, Word, etc.).
• Knowledge of state and local regulations.

We attract the best people in the industry, supporting their efforts to learn and grow. We strive to create a challenging and progressive work environment. We provide career opportunities that span a variety of disciplines and geographic locations, with projects that our employees plan, design, build and operate as diverse as the needs of our clients. CDM Smith is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, related conditions, childbirth and related medical conditions, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression), national origin, age, marital status, disability, veteran status, citizenship status, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

$104,562

$182,…