Design Engineer

About this Role

A Design Engineer at HBK Engineering is a position for engineering professionals with increased independence, technical oversight, and leadership responsibilities across subsurface utility, roadway, grading, drainage, and stormwater design projects. Working with minimal oversight, this role applies sound engineering judgment and problem-solving skills to independently address complex site civil and construction challenges. Design Engineers own all phases of the project lifecycle from initial survey analysis and AutoCAD/GIS drafting to field walkdowns and project closeout. Additionally, this role serves as a key technical mentor by coaching entry-level staff, conducting peer reviews of engineering designs, and partnering with project leadership to manage risk, representing a significant step forward in professional development within HBK's Engineering Track. Location: Chicagoland or Greater Chicago Area.

What You'll Do

• 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, while supporting roadway, grading, drainage, utility, and stormwater design.
• Analyze topographical surveys, utility atlas information, field sketches, and client records to prepare reports and studies that present technical information clearly and concisely.
• Conduct field investigations, surveys, walkdowns, and construction phase services alongside internal staff, clients, governance authorities, and construction partners (travel typically <25%).
• Assist with scheduling, cost estimates, permitting, and plan reviews for code conformance, working closely with project management and engineering leadership to manage project risk.
• Perform peer reviews of engineering designs under professional engineering oversight, while coaching and mentoring entry-level staff.
• Communicate complex engineering matters effectively across internal project management, engineering leadership, and field resources while independently managing schedules to meet project milestones.

What You'll Bring

• Bachelor of Science in Engineering or a related degree from an ABET-accredited program; Engineer in Training (EIT) certification preferred.

• 2.5+ years of relevant engineering experience, with demonstrated capability to address site civil, subsurface utility, and construction-related challenges using sound engineering judgment.

• Technical & CADD Proficiency: In-depth knowledge of 2D CADD software (AutoCAD, MicroStation or similar) to generate layout drawings, strong GIS capabilities, and proficiency in the Office365 suite and remote communication tools.

• Hands-on experience reviewing drawings and engineering materials developed by others, paired with an ability to come up to speed quickly on in-process projects.

• Strong track record of working independently and across interdisciplinary teams, with practical experience mentoring entry-level staff.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, strong persistence to see projects through to completion, and the agility to adapt to evolving project priorities across multiple project types.

What You'll Get

• 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
• Comprehensive benefits package
• Continued preparation for Professional Engineer (PE) licensure.

Compensation RangeThe anticipated compensation for this position is USD $85,000.00/Yr. - depending on experience and qualifications.