Director Subsurface Utility Engineering Jobs in Chicago, IL

HBK Engineering, LLC is a fully licensed, professional engineering design firm headquartered in Chicago, IL with a staff approaching 700 individuals. HBK provides civil, environmental, structural, electrical, subsurface utility, construction support services and permitting facilitation. Since our founding in 1998, we have earned a reputation for delivering outstanding, accurate services in extremely time-sensitive, multilayered environments. That "industry-recognized" performance has propelled our expansion and the ability to provide engineering services in all 50 states. With 25 offices nationwide, including concentrations in the Midwest and on the Coasts, HBK brings together a dedicated team whose main focus is the design and protection of utilities and utility networks. We have successfully performed engineering work for a complete spectrum of utility infrastructure projects providing solutions and construction support from Coast to Coast in areas ranging from complex urban city centers, to rural greenfields, to limited access rights-of-way. In July 2020, HBK Engineering was acquired by Quanta Services. Quanta Services provides infrastructure services for electric power, pipeline, and communications industries and employees over 50,000 people. Quanta’s focus on the utility industry and HBK’s focus on constructability in our designs has made our integration into the Quanta family of companies seamless.

HBK Engineering is seeking an experienced Structural Engineering Specialist to work in our Chicago or Oak Brook office. This is a position that combines advanced technical expertise with team leadership responsibilities. This role involves applying broad knowledge of engineering principles and practices while independently evaluating, selecting, and adapting standard techniques and procedures to address unique and complex electrical, structural, civil, and construction-related challenges. The position includes acting as a team lead in coordinating detailed design phases for all aspects of utility engineering work, with direct client interface responsibilities and quality control oversight. Work location: IL

• Design engineering systems in compliance with specifications, codes, and client requirements for overhead and subsurface utility projects
• Apply broad knowledge of engineering principles and practices to ensure design compliance with relevant specifications, codes, and client requirements
• Independently evaluate, select, and adapt standard techniques, procedures, and criteria to address unique and complex challenges
• Act as team lead in coordinating detailed design phases for all aspects of utility engineering work
• Train entry-level staff in their professional development
• Perform quality control reviews of engineering designs under the oversight of professional engineering staff
• Interface with clients to discuss engineering topics within their area of expertise and provide support to the engineering team
• Prepare detailed engineering and construction documents using AutoCAD, MicroStation, GIS systems, and client-specific enterprise asset management platforms
• Analyze information from topographical surveys, utility atlas information, field sketches, client records, and manufacturer equipment datasheets
• Prepare reports and studies that present technical information clearly and concisely to meet client requirements
• Work with project management and engineering leadership to manage project risk
• Communicate complex engineering matters to internal project management, engineering leadership, and field resources
• Independently manage time and schedule to achieve project milestones
• Perform field walkdowns with internal staff, clients, customers, governance authorities, and construction partners
• Travel as needed, typically less than 30%

• Bachelor of Science in Engineering or related degree from an ABET-accredited program
• PE licensed preferred
• Minimum 4 to 10 years of relevant structural engineering experience
• US driver's license and US work authorization
• Ability to work independently and in interdisciplinary teams
• Strong technology skills and understanding of the Office365 suite of tools
• In-depth knowledge of 2D CADD software (AutoCAD or similar) including generating layout drawings and project materials
• Experience reviewing drawings or engineering materials developed by others
• Training experience with entry- and mid-level staff
• Understanding of remote communication software
• Ability to quickly come up to speed on in-process projects and hit the ground running
• Experience collaborating with teams to complete larger projects
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills suited for both internal and external conversations
• Persistence to see projects through to completion
• Adaptability to change in a dynamic team environment.

• Leadership opportunities as team lead for detailed design coordination
• Direct client interface responsibilities within area of expertise
• Professional growth with broad application of engineering principles and practices
• Quality control review experience under professional engineering supervision
• Training and mentorship responsibilities for entry-level staff
• 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 including medical, dental, vision, disability and employer paid life insurance. In addition, all full-time roles are also eligible for 401(k) retirement plan with company match, paid time off and holidays. Tuition reimbursement and other role specific company paid professional development opportunities are also available.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex (including gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity), age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, and/or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.
We prohibit all types of discrimination and are committed to providing access and equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities. For additional information or if reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application, interview, or hiring processes or to perform the essential functions of a position, please contact us the Company’s Human Resources department.