Principal Engineer

Principal Engineer
Our client is seeking a Principal Engineer to lead the planning, design, and delivery of complex water conveyance and wastewater infrastructure projects. This role is responsible for ensuring compliance with environmental regulations, guiding multidisciplinary teams, and providing technical expertise to support capital improvement programs. The Principal Engineer will serve as a trusted resource across departments, external agencies, and community stakeholders to ensure high-quality, sustainable outcomes.

This role is onsite around the Hillsboro, Oregon area.

• Oversee the planning, design, and execution of capital improvement projects related to wastewater and surface water conveyance systems.
• Manage budgets, schedules, and resources to ensure projects are delivered on time, within scope, and compliant with regulatory requirements.
• Provide technical guidance and serve as Engineer of Record for sanitary and surface water conveyance projects.
• Lead procurement processes, including consultant selection, contracting, and oversight of design and construction services.
• Collaborate with internal teams, government agencies, and external partners to resolve project issues and maintain positive stakeholder relationships.
• Apply engineering expertise to assess infrastructure needs, develop rehabilitation programs, and implement innovative solutions for system operations.
• Supervise, mentor, and evaluate staff performance while promoting a culture of safety and continuous improvement.
• Contribute to policy development, regulatory interpretation, and long-term strategic planning for water and wastewater management systems.

Principal Engineer Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in civil, environmental, or sanitary engineering, or a related discipline.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license in Oregon, or ability to obtain within six months of hire.
• 5+ years of progressive experience managing capital improvement programs in wastewater, stormwater, or water utilities.
• 5+ years of supervisory or managerial experience leading engineering staff and contractors.
• Strong knowledge of conveyance system design, construction practices, permitting, and regulatory standards.
• Proven ability to manage multiple large-scale projects simultaneously while meeting technical, budgetary, and compliance requirements.
• Skilled in stakeholder communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution with government agencies, consultants, and community members.
• Proficiency with engineering software, project management tools, and Microsoft Office applications.
• Valid driver’s license required.

Compensation and Benefits
Compensation is dependent on experience. Benefits are available to eligible full-time employees and include coverage for medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short and long term disability, and matching 401k.

Vander Houwen is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in E-Verify. Vander Houwen does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable local, state, or federal civil rights laws.