Resident Engineer

Founded in 1919, KJ has always looked to the future. With a talented team of professionals and a culture of continuous improvement, we deliver exceptional engineering, environmental consulting, and construction management services, with a focus on innovation and sustainability. Using advanced analytics, technology, and tools, KJ improves designs, reduces risk, and finds better ways to deliver projects from planning through construction.

KJ is at the forefront of developing sustainable solutions for clients, including green infrastructure design, strategies to reduce energy use and environmental impacts, award-winning water reuse projects, and efficient construction management practices that ensure quality, safety, and on-time delivery. We are known for our dedication to industry-leading client service and tailored solutions.

Kennedy Jenks is seeking a skilled and experienced Resident Engineer in California to join our team. The Resident Engineer will primarily provide oversight and construction management activities for major water and wastewater infrastructure projects, including pipelines and pump stations.

This role involves ensuring compliance with plans and specifications, preparing work according to company standards, and meeting established deadlines.

What You'll Do

As a Resident Engineer , you'll operate at the intersection of engineering, construction management, contract administration, and client coordination, helping guide complex water and wastewater projects from construction through completion.

• Lead construction execution : Review RFIs (Requests for Information) and submittals for compliance with specifications. Review technical plans and specifications for compliance with owner and contractor requirements. Review as-built contractor drawings monthly. Prepare daily reports, track schedule compliance, manage material testing, and special inspection activities. Manage startup activities and commissioning processes. Support the Project Manager with technical reviews and project delivery activities.

• Drive schedule, budget & contract performance : Review and manage contractors' schedules, providing recommendations to the owner. Review and recommend approval of monthly pay applications. Comprehend contract laws associated with construction management, including the Public Contract Code. Manage construction management budgets and construction budgets, including reviewing and recommending approval of contractors' monthly pay applications and contract change orders. Understand overall project construction budgets, review and approve daily extra work tags, and understand their impact on contract project budgets.
• Monitor regulatory compliance & stakeholder alignment : Interface with the public, regulatory agencies, and permitting authorities. Maintain compliance with SWPPP requirements and project documentation standards. Understand construction management activities, risks, and the importance of documentation.

• Lead and mentor project teams: Lead the project construction team to successful project completion. Supervise Inspectors. Conduct performance reviews and provide developmental feedback. Model best practices in construction management and professional conduct.
• Grow the business and build talent: Support business development by attending pre-proposal meetings and interviews. Contact peers and colleagues for potential hires.

What Makes This Role Different

• Immediate impact: Step into active, long-term infrastructure projects already underway.
• Leadership opportunity: Lead critical construction work while helping shape how KJ grows locally.
• Stability and momentum: Join a respected, employee-owned firm with a strong national presence and meaningful infrastructure work.

What You Bring

• Professionalism : Ability to interact professionally both internally and externally at all levels of an organization.
• Communication and collaboration : Strong writing, editing, and research skills.
• Construction knowledge : Working knowledge of construction administration, Division I specifications and their application, safety, and contracts.
• Work Style : Ability to work independently or as a valuable team member.

• Tools, systems, or methods : Proficiency with Microsoft Office products and engineering and inspection-related software.

• Leadership approach : Field-oriented leadership style with a focus on accountability, mentorship, ownership, and practical decision-making.

Qualifications

• Education : Bachelor's degree in engineering from an accredited four-year college or university required.
• Experience : 5+ years of relevant experience in construction management or engineering.

This role requires full-time presence on project sites and in the office as needed. KJ offers relocation support if needed.

Salary range for this position is anticipated to be $126,000 to $158,000, and may vary based upon education, experience, qualifications, licensure/certifications and geographic location.

Benefits summary: Medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance; a health savings account; a 401(k); bonus programs; tuition reimbursement; employee ownership opportunity; professional registration support; business travel assistance; competitive paid time off and holidays; an employee assistance program; and additional programs that support your wellbeing and professional growth.

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Kennedy Jenks is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, marital status, disability, citizenship status, genetics, protected veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by applicable law.