Senior Distributed Systems Engineer Jobs in Yelm, WA

At David Evans and Associates, Inc. (DEA), our Water and Environment team offers comprehensive solutions in natural resources management and environmental permitting, water resources, and water/wastewater infrastructure. Our approach brings planning, analysis, and design together in stewardship of the built and natural environments. We deliver practical results that address pressing environmental and water infrastructure challenges. From designing water, wastewater, or stormwater systems to evaluating, permitting, and restoring sensitive habitats, our services support sustainable development and resilient infrastructure.

The Water/Wastewater Infrastructure Practice is seeking a Senior Project Manager in Seattle, Bellevue, Woodinville, Olympia, Everett, or Tacoma, WA.

The ideal candidate will lead large, complex municipal (special purpose district and/or city) water and wastewater programs and projects and help drive strategic growth. This is a senior role suited for an experienced engineer who can independently manage major programs, projects, and/or design tasks, mentor the next generation of leaders, and focus on delivering high-quality projects while managing and building client relationships, financial performance, and team coordination.

• Lead large, complex infrastructure programs with multiple stakeholders and phased delivery
• Oversee planning, design, and execution of major water/wastewater systems
• Ensure strong financial performance across project portfolios
• Manage contracts, subconsultants, and regulatory coordination
• Lead planning and design for municipal (special purpose district and/or city) water and wastewater systems, including:
  • Conveyance and pumping systems
  • Storage and distribution systems
  • Collection systems and treatment facilities
• Manage scope, schedule, budget, and quality
• Coordinate multidisciplinary teams and subconsultants
• Oversee project financials including forecasting, invoicing, and profitability
• Ensure successful project closeout and client satisfaction
• Manage complex design tasks and coordinate multidisciplinary teams
• Prepare and oversee engineering deliverables including plans, specifications, reports, and cost estimates
• Ensure compliance with applicable regulatory requirements and design standards
• Serve as Engineer of Record or technical lead on projects

• Serve as a strategic advisor and/or primary point of contact for key municipal (special purpose district and/or city) water/wastewater clients
• Actively lead business development initiatives, including identifying opportunities, securing new work, and expanding DEA’s footprint.
• Represent DEA at industry events, professional organizations, and community initiatives to strengthen relationships and market presence.

• Build and develop high-performing, cross-disciplinary project teams.
• Provide mentorship and guidance to mid-level project managers, ensuring knowledge transfer and leadership development.
• Establish clear expectations, accountability, and a collaborative team culture to successfully deliver project outcomes.

• Bachelor's degree in civil engineering (or related field); PE license required or ability to obtain
• 15+ years of progressive experience in civil engineering, with a focus on water and wastewater systems
• Demonstrated experience delivering municipal (city and/or special purpose district) water/wastewater programs and infrastructure projects
• Proven success managing complex, multi-phase projects, including coordination with stakeholders, subconsultants, and funding partners
• Experience leading design efforts and guiding multidisciplinary teams through all phases of project delivery
• Strong understanding of public agency processes, permitting requirements, and funding mechanisms
• Experience supporting full project lifecycle, from planning and design through construction and closeout
• Proficiency with standard engineering tools (e.g., hydraulic modeling, drafting/design software, Bluebeam, spreadsheets)
• Excellent communication and technical writing skills, with experience mentoring and developing staff
• Demonstrated ability to build client relationships and contribute to business development, including pursuit support and contract acquisition

We foster an environment where talented professionals have the freedom and support to do their most meaningful work. Our values and company culture form the foundation of our success, creating a positive and collaborative work environment. These guiding principles are vital to our continued achievements and unwavering commitment to improving the world around us.

As a member of our team, you will have the opportunity to cultivate and develop your skills and work alongside talented colleagues who are committed to improving the quality of life while demonstrating stewardship of the built and natural environments.

• Comprehensive health coverage:Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, and Life Insurance
• Financial wellness:Health Savings Account (HSA) and Lifestyle Spending Account with employer contributions
• Professional development: Support for continuing education and training opportunities.
• Work-life balance:Paid Time Off (PTO) and Holiday Pay
• Work Schedule:Flexible 9/80 schedule—every other Friday off!
• Retirement:401k plan
• Wellbeing focus:Holistic Wellbeing Program centered on physical, emotional, financial, career, and community health
• Growth opportunities:Access to mentorship, professional support, and pathways for career advancement
• Potential salary range:$170,000/annually - $200,000/annually

The posted salary range represents the typical range for this position and is provided in accordance with applicable state and local pay transparency laws. Actual compensation will be commensurate with experience, qualifications, and geographic location.

Potential office locations include: Seattle, WA; Bellevue, WA; Woodinville, WA; Olympia,WA; Everett, WA; Tacoma, WA.