Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Horizontal Engineer

🎯 Role Definition

We are on the hunt for a dynamic and experienced Horizontal Engineer to join our growing team. As a key player in our operations, you will be the driving force behind the successful delivery of our most critical horizontal construction projects. This role is perfect for a technical expert with a passion for seeing plans on paper transform into tangible infrastructure that shapes communities. You will be responsible for the end-to-end management of projects involving site development, earthwork, utilities, and transportation systems. The ideal candidate is a proactive problem-solver, a strong leader, and a meticulous planner who thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. If you are ready to take ownership of complex projects and make a significant impact, we want to hear from you.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Civil Engineer / EIT
Field Engineer
Construction Project Coordinator

Advancement To:

Senior Project Manager
Construction Manager
Director of Engineering

Lateral Moves:

Geotechnical Specialist
Quality Control Manager

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Manage and oversee horizontal construction projects from conception through completion, including roadways, airfields, site grading, utility installation, and large-scale earthwork.
Develop comprehensive project plans, detailed schedules, and accurate budgets, ensuring strict adherence to project timelines and financial objectives.
Perform detailed design and analysis for site development projects, focusing on grading strategies, comprehensive drainage systems, stormwater management (SWPPP), and erosion control measures.
Utilize advanced CADD software, such as AutoCAD Civil 3D or MicroStation, to create, modify, and manage engineering plans, profiles, cross-sections, and final construction documents.
Conduct thorough site investigations, geotechnical reviews, and feasibility studies to assess project viability, identify potential risks, and develop mitigation strategies.
Prepare and review highly detailed quantity take-offs and cost estimates for earthwork, paving, underground utilities, and all other horizontal construction elements.
Coordinate and lead multi-disciplinary teams, including surveyors, geotechnical engineers, subcontractors, and various external stakeholders, to ensure seamless project execution and alignment.
Serve as the primary technical point of contact for clients, contractors, and regulatory agencies, expertly communicating project status and resolving complex technical inquiries.
Implement and enforce rigorous quality control and quality assurance (QA/QC) programs to guarantee all work meets or exceeds design specifications and industry best practices.
Manage the complete submittal, RFI (Request for Information), and change order processes, maintaining meticulous documentation and transparent tracking throughout the project lifecycle.
Interpret and apply complex engineering drawings, technical specifications, and geotechnical reports to effectively guide construction activities and resolve field discrepancies.
Ensure strict compliance with all applicable local, state, and federal regulations, including environmental permits and OSHA safety standards, to maintain a safe and compliant job site.
Supervise, mentor, and train junior engineers and field staff, providing critical technical guidance and fostering a culture of continuous professional development.
Conduct regular, in-depth site inspections to monitor construction progress, proactively identify potential issues, and verify that work is being performed safely and to the highest quality standards.
Prepare and present detailed progress reports, technical memorandums, and comprehensive project close-out documentation for internal leadership and external stakeholders.
Analyze topographic and survey data to perform precise earthwork volume calculations (cut/fill analysis) and create models that optimize site grading and material management.
Design and oversee the installation of complex underground utility networks, including water mains, sanitary sewers, and storm drainage systems, ensuring proper alignment, grade, and testing.
Collaborate with procurement and estimating teams to source materials and equipment, meticulously review vendor proposals, and ensure timely delivery to the job site.
Develop and implement comprehensive site logistics, phasing, and traffic control plans to maintain a safe, secure, and highly efficient work environment with minimal disruption.
Evaluate and approve contractor pay applications based on verified work-in-place and stored materials, ensuring alignment with the project budget and contract terms.
Troubleshoot and resolve unforeseen construction challenges, design conflicts, and field issues in a timely and cost-effective manner to minimize project delays.
Lead pre-construction and coordination meetings to establish clear project objectives, define roles and responsibilities, and set communication protocols with all involved parties.

Secondary Functions

Support ad-hoc data requests and exploratory data analysis related to project performance, cost tracking, and material usage.
Contribute to the organization's construction technology strategy and process improvement initiatives.
Collaborate with business development and estimating teams to provide technical input for proposals and project bids.
Participate in sprint planning and agile ceremonies if working within an Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) framework.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

High proficiency in CADD software, specifically AutoCAD Civil 3D and/or MicroStation, for design and modeling.
Expertise in civil site design including grading, drainage, stormwater management, and utility layout.
Deep knowledge of construction materials, heavy equipment, and modern construction methods.
Experience with project management and scheduling software (e.g., Primavera P6, Procore, Microsoft Project).
Proficiency in cost estimating, budget management, and performing detailed quantity take-offs.
Advanced ability to read, interpret, and redline complex blueprints, geotechnical reports, and technical specifications.
Strong understanding of land surveying principles and data analysis (GPS, Total Stations, Lidar).
Familiarity with the environmental regulations, permitting processes, and agency requirements (e.g., EPA, USACE).
Experience with stormwater modeling and analysis software (e.g., HydroCAD, SWMM, HEC-RAS).
In-depth knowledge of OSHA 1926 construction safety standards and creating site-specific safety plans.

Soft Skills

Exceptional leadership and team management capabilities with a proven ability to motivate teams.
Clear, concise, and professional communication skills (both verbal and written).
Advanced analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
Meticulous attention to detail and an unwavering commitment to quality and accuracy.
Strong negotiation and conflict resolution skills to manage stakeholder and contractor relationships.
Superior organizational and time-management skills to effectively handle multiple, concurrent projects.
High degree of adaptability and resilience in a fast-paced, and often unpredictable, construction environment.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in a relevant field of study.

Preferred Education:

Master of Science (M.S.) degree in a relevant field.
Professional Engineer (PE) License or the ability to obtain it.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Civil Engineering
Construction Management
Construction Engineering Technology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

5-10 years of progressive experience in civil engineering design, site development, or hands-on construction management.

Preferred:

Demonstrable experience managing large-scale ($10M+) site development, transportation, or public works projects from start to finish.
Experience in a design-build or other alternative delivery project environment is highly valued.