Design Engineer

HBK Engineering, LLC•Geneva, IL

19d

About The Position

HBK Engineering is hiring a Design Engineer for the Chicagoland or Greater Chicago Area. This engineering role involves increased independence, technical oversight, and leadership responsibilities across subsurface utility, roadway, grading, drainage, and stormwater design projects. The Design Engineer works with minimal oversight, applying engineering judgment and problem-solving skills to address complex site civil and construction challenges. The position owns projects through the full lifecycle, from initial survey analysis and design through construction completion and closeout. It also provides technical mentorship to entry-level staff, conducts peer reviews of engineering designs under professional engineering oversight, and partners with project leadership to help manage risk. The role involves preparing engineering and construction documents, field investigations and construction-phase services, project coordination, and communication with internal teams, clients, authorities, and construction partners. Travel is typically less than 25%.

Requirements

Bachelor of Science in Engineering or a related degree from an ABET-accredited program.
At least 2.5 years of relevant engineering experience.
Demonstrated ability to address site civil, subsurface utility, and construction-related challenges using sound engineering judgment.
In-depth knowledge of 2D CADD software such as AutoCAD, MicroStation, or similar for generating layout drawings.
Strong GIS capabilities.
Proficiency in the Office365 suite and remote communication tools.
Hands-on experience reviewing drawings and engineering materials developed by others, and ability to quickly come up to speed on in-process projects.
Ability to work independently and across interdisciplinary teams, with practical experience mentoring entry-level staff.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, persistence to see projects through to completion, and agility to adapt to changing priorities across multiple project types.

Nice To Haves

Engineer in Training (EIT) certification.

Responsibilities

Own all phases of the design lifecycle, from initiation through construction completion and project closeout, designing subsurface utility systems in compliance with relevant specifications, codes, and client requirements.
Prepare detailed engineering and construction documents using AutoCAD, MicroStation, and GIS systems, supporting roadway, grading, drainage, utility, and stormwater design.
Analyze topographical surveys, utility atlas information, field sketches, and client records to prepare clear and concise reports and studies.
Conduct field investigations, surveys, walkdowns, and construction-phase services with internal staff, clients, governance authorities, and construction partners.
Assist with scheduling, cost estimates, permitting, and plan reviews for code conformance, working with project management and engineering leadership to manage project risk.
Perform peer reviews of engineering designs under professional engineering oversight and coach and mentor entry-level staff.
Communicate complex engineering matters across project management, engineering leadership, and field resources.
Independently manage schedules to meet project milestones.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits package.
Leadership opportunities through coaching and mentoring responsibilities.
Professional growth with increased independence and minimal oversight.
Experience in peer review processes under professional engineering supervision.
Advanced project management and risk management experience.
Enhanced client communication and technical reporting responsibilities.
Field experience through walkdowns and stakeholder interactions.
Travel opportunities for project work and professional development.
Collaborative work environment with project management and engineering leadership.
Clear career progression pathway within the HBK Organization's Engineering Track.
Continued preparation for Professional Engineer (PE) licensure.