Project Engineer, Civil Engineering

Salary Range: $50,000 - $80,000 annually (based on experience)

Bonus Eligible: This position is eligible for Curran Contracting's incentive bonus program.

Established in 1936, Curran Contracting has grown into one of the region's premier heavy civil contractors, specializing in site development, excavation, mass grading, paving, and asphalt production. Serving commercial, industrial, and government clients, Curran operates from six strategic locations throughout Illinois and Indiana, including Crystal Lake, DeKalb, Island Lake, Sycamore, Oswego, and Merrillville.

For nearly 90 years, Curran has built a reputation for excellence through a commitment to delivering high-quality work, fostering strong partnerships, and investing in its people. Our success is rooted in five core values—Family, Improvement, Integrity, Partnership, and Respect—which guide every decision we make and every relationship we build.

The Project Engineer plays a vital role in the successful delivery of heavy highway and site development projects by supporting project planning, coordination, documentation, and field operations. This position serves as a foundational step within Curran's Project Management career path, providing hands‑on experience and professional development opportunities while contributing to the successful execution of complex construction projects.

Working closely with Project Managers, Senior Project Managers, field leadership, subcontractors, and clients, the Project Engineer gains exposure to the full project lifecycle while developing the technical, financial, operational, and leadership skills necessary for long‑term career growth within the organization.

• Support project startup activities, including project setup, documentation management, and tracking systems.
• Assist with the preparation, distribution, and tracking of Requests for Information (RFIs), submittals, project correspondence, and other project documentation.
• Support Project Managers in the development and maintenance of project schedules.
• Monitor and update weekly site schedules as directed by project leadership.
• Assist with project communications between field teams, subcontractors, suppliers, and management.
• Participate in weekly project meetings and contribute to coordination efforts that support project success.

• Conduct regular jobsite visits to observe project progress, verify compliance, and gain practical construction experience.
• Support field personnel by facilitating communication, documentation, and issue resolution.
• Develop an understanding of construction means and methods, project sequencing, and operational planning.
• Ensure project records and documentation are maintained accurately and consistently.
• Assist with cost code tracking, labor reporting, and project-related data entry.
• Learn the fundamentals of project budgeting, cost forecasting, and financial reporting.
• Support subcontractor onboarding, documentation collection, and purchase order processing.
• Assist project teams in tracking subcontractor compliance and contract requirements.
• Gain exposure to project financial management practices and reporting processes.

• Learn to identify potential changes in project scope and contract requirements.
• Assist in the preparation and documentation of change requests and supporting materials.
• Support project correspondence and client communications under the guidance of Project Managers.
• Gain experience with project contracts, specifications, and owner requirements.

• Actively participate in mentorship, coaching, and development opportunities provided by Project Managers and Senior Project Managers.
• Develop an understanding of project management principles, leadership expectations, and construction industry best practices.
• Continuously expand technical knowledge, problem‑solving abilities, and leadership capabilities.
• Demonstrate a commitment to personal growth, continuous improvement, and Curran's core values.

• Strong organizational…