Design Manager Jobs in Kent, OH (NOW HIRING)

We Make Everything Around Us Better

At PRIME AE, that’s not a slogan, it’s how we work.

Every bridge, building, campus, park, and roadway we design exists to improve how people live, move, learn, and connect. Through architecture, engineering, planning, and consulting, we partner with clients to create thoughtful, practical solutions that leave communities stronger than we found them.

If you want your work to matter, and to be surrounded by smart, collaborative people who care about doing things the right way, you’ll feel at home here.

Who We Are:

PRIME AE Group, Inc. (www.primeeng.com) is a nationally ranked, full-service architecture and engineering firm driven by collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to strengthening the communities we serve. With a growing footprint of offices across the country and a diverse team of more than 550 professionals, we partner with public and private sector clients to deliver thoughtful, high-impact solutions across transportation, education, healthcare, municipal, federal, commercial, and recreational markets.

Our culture blends entrepreneurial energy with the resources of a scaled, multidisciplinary platform—giving our people the opportunity to shape meaningful projects while influencing the future direction of the firm. As PRIME AE continues to expand its capabilities, geographic reach, and leadership bench, this is an exciting time to join a team that is building momentum, investing in growth, and empowering leaders to make a lasting impact.

The Opportunity:

We are currently seeking a Project Manager – Water / Wastewater to join our growing team in our Columbus or Akron, Ohio offices.

In this role, you will lead the design and management of complex water and wastewater treatment and infrastructure projects from initial planning and regulatory coordination through detailed design and project delivery. This position combines technical leadership, project management, and client engagement, offering the opportunity to play a key role in supporting critical water infrastructure improvements for municipal and public-sector clients.

The ideal candidate is a licensed Professional Engineer with strong experience in water and wastewater systems, proven project leadership capabilities, and a passion for mentoring junior staff and building client relationships.

PRIME AE offers a hybrid work environment, allowing employees to work part-time remotely and part-time in the office. Our culture is centered on putting people first, providing mentorship, training, and clearly defined career paths that support long-term professional growth.

What You’ll Do:
 As a Project Manager, you will lead the planning, design, and delivery of water and wastewater infrastructure projects while providing technical guidance and mentorship to project teams. You will collaborate with clients, regulatory agencies, and internal teams to ensure projects are delivered efficiently, meet regulatory requirements, and support the long-term needs of the communities we serve.

Key Responsibilities:

• Serve as Project Manager and/or Design Manager on water and wastewater infrastructure and treatment projects.
• Plan, schedule, and coordinate project activities across multiple phases of design and delivery.
• Develop and evaluate project plans, schedules, and budgets to ensure successful project execution.
• Provide technical leadership and guidance on water and wastewater system design and infrastructure improvements.
• Assess feasibility and technical soundness of engineering evaluations and design solutions.
• Ensure quality control and quality assurance procedures are implemented throughout project delivery.
• Conduct peer reviews, technical presentations, and design evaluations.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients and stakeholders.
• Identify potential clients and project opportunities and support business development efforts.
• Collaborate with the Marketing team on proposal preparation, statements of qualifications, and contract development.
• Mentor and support the development of junior engineers and technical staff.

What You’ll Bring:

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, or related field.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license or ability to obtain reciprocity.
• 6+ years of experience in water and wastewater engineering.
• Experience with projects involving:
  • Water and wastewater system studies and master planning
  • Water quality analyses
  • Pump station design
  • Water distribution and storage systems
  • Water treatment and wastewater treatment facilities
  • Wastewater collection systems
• Experience with NPDES permitting, regulatory compliance, and infrastructure improvement projects.
• Experience working with municipal clients and utility operators, including start-up support and commissioning activities.
• Demonstrated project management and leadership experience; experience serving as Design Manager is a strong plus.
• Experience supporting business development and client relationship management.
• Strong communication, organizational, and leadership skills.

Why PRIME AE:

We don’t just fill positions; we invest in people.

At PRIME AE, you’ll find a supportive, flexible environment where careers are built intentionally, not accidentally. You’ll work on projects that improve everyday life, alongside colleagues who challenge and respect one another.

What sets us apart:

• Career Growth: Flexible career paths across disciplines, from technical expertise to project and people leadership.
• People-First Culture: We value trust, integrity, and collaboration, and we mean it.
• Meaningful Work: Projects that strengthen communities, infrastructure, and public spaces.
• Growth with Purpose: Strategic expansion backed by strong leadership and investment.
• National Reach, Local Feel: Big-firm resources with the agility and relationships of local offices.

Our Commitment:

PRIME AE Group is committed to creating an inclusive environment where differences are respected, voices are heard, and everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

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