About the role
Senior Engineering Manager (LAND DEVELOPMENT) - Santa Clara, CA
What we're looking for?
The Senior Engineering Manager holds the highest level of responsibility and accountability. The success of a project is dependent on their expertise in project management, design and execution, client and employee relationships. This leadership role combines project responsibilities, internal operational responsibilities and marketing/business development responsibilities.
What you will do
Project Management
Expert level knowledge and experience in all phases of project management. Responsible for all project KPI’s.
* Project Initiation & Planning * Contract & Proposal Management * Budget & Cost Management * Schedule Management * Team & Resource Management * Client & Stakeholder Communication * Quality Assurance & Control * Permitting & Regulatory Compliance * Risk Management * Project Closeout
Technical
* Manages a large book of business - in excess of 1.5 million * Independently design site grading, drainage, utility systems, and stormwater infrastructure in accordance with jurisdictional standards and environmental regulations. * Prepare comprehensive civil engineering plans from concept through construction using AutoCAD Civil 3D and other relevant design tools. * Perform hydrologic and hydraulic calculations, develop SWPPPs, and prepare supporting engineering reports. * Use modeling software to analyze utility systems, stormwater behavior, and water quality performance. * Develop and maintain construction drawings, CAD models, and technical exhibits to support design development and permitting. * Lead construction cost estimating and assist in constructability reviews to ensure feasibility and alignment with project budgets. * Review technical drawings, reports, and deliverables for accuracy, completeness, and regulatory compliance. * Lead QA/QC procedures throughout the project lifecycle and provide peer review support across engineering teams. * Guide junior staff by preparing constraint drawings and offering design input, particularly in resolving complex site or utility design challenges. * Ensure all entitlement and permitting documentation is complete, coordinated, and aligned with agency requirements.
Coordination & Communication
* Act as primary point of contact for clients, agencies, and subconsultants. * Serve as primary point of contact for key clients and regulatory agencies. * Guide project staff in goal setting, accountability, and professional growth.
Leadership & Mentoring
* Manage internal task delegation, ensuring deadlines and quality expectations are met. * Perform employee evaluations and skill development plans * Mentor across the organization on best practices. * Contribute to internal initiatives and business planning. * May lead training initiatives on various technical topics * May participate in succession planning efforts.
Business Development & Marketing
* Build and maintain long term relationships with clients * Participate in industry events and/or client interviews * Identify opportunities for new clients and add-on services * Participate in strategy development to expand business * Highly sought after by clients
Other duties as assigned
What you have
Education + Experience
* Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or an equivalent level of experience * Additional Experience/License * 15+ years of experience land development w/ Professional Engineering License, * Additional certifications a plus, e.g QSP/QSD, PMP * General knowledge of computers, Microsoft office, Adobe, Internet, etc. * Experience with AutoCAD Civil 3D and Bluebeam, required. Additional software a plus, e.g. Agtek, StormCAD, Hydrology/hydraulic modeling software. * Proven record of successful project delivery and client satisfaction. * Strong client relationships with repeat business * High-level leadership and delegation * Proven ability to bring in new clients and projects; expand business opportunities
Physical Requirements and/or Working Conditions
* Prolonged periods of sitting (up to 8 hours a day for office staff) * Interacting with technology (computer, cellphone, etc.) * Ability to lift and/or carry items ( up to 20 lbs.) * Prolonged periods of standing/walking (field checks) * Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions (field checks) * Occasional travel e.g. driving to offices, jobsites, client meetings, etc.
Why Join Us?
* Great culture – Team Collaboration, Innovative problem solving, Responsive to clients, Passionate about work * Competitive Pay ($170,000 - $200,000/year DOE + location) * Paid Holidays * Free office snacks * Much more!
We welcome the opportunity to partner with recruitment agencies when additional support is needed. To ensure a consistent hiring process, all inquiries, including partnership opportunities and candidate submissions, must be directed to [email protected]. In addition, Kier + Wright does not accept unsolicited candidate submissions from agencies that do not have an executed agreement in place or have not been specifically engaged for a particular search. Any unsolicited candidate information submitted outside of this process may be considered the property of Kier + Wright, and no placement fee or other financial obligation will be incurred.
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Compensation: $170,000 - $200,000/year