Field Engineer IV (Professional Engineer)

At KLJ, we believe great projects start with great people. We're looking for a Field Engineer IV to play a key role in delivering complex construction and infrastructure projects from concept through completion.

In this role, you'll combine technical expertise, field leadership, and project coordination to support successful project delivery across a variety of transportation, municipal, utility, and infrastructure projects. You'll serve as a trusted advisor to project teams, contractors, clients, and stakeholders while helping ensure projects are completed safely, efficiently, and according to design and contract requirements.

This opportunity is ideal for an experienced Professional Engineer who enjoys being in the field, solving real-world challenges, mentoring others, and contributing directly to projects that improve communities and infrastructure.

What You'll Do

Lead Construction Observation & Project Execution

• Perform professional field engineering services supporting construction observation, inspections, investigations, and documentation activities.
• Evaluate existing and proposed site conditions, construction activities, materials, infrastructure, and transportation systems to verify compliance with plans, specifications, permits, and applicable regulations.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret data from construction sites, surveys, plans, GIS information, maps, and contract documents.
• Assist with project planning, scheduling, phasing, and construction oversight activities.
• Monitor contractor performance and construction progress to help ensure quality, safety, and compliance objectives are achieved.

Drive Quality and Technical Excellence

• Develop and implement quality control procedures and documentation practices to support accurate observations, reporting, and project delivery.
• Review construction plans, specifications, schedules, cost estimates, and project documentation.
• Prepare technical reports, calculations, charts, visualizations, presentations, and construction documentation.
• Analyze field observations and investigation findings to identify risks, develop solutions, and support project decision-making.
• Support contract administration activities and provide technical recommendations regarding project issues and opportunities.

Coordinate and Lead in the Field

• Serve as a key liaison between project managers, engineers, contractors, vendors, clients, and regulatory agencies.
• Coordinate field activities and work groups to support efficient project execution.
• Establish project reference points, elevations, grades, and layout controls during construction.
• Evaluate contractor schedules and resource needs while monitoring ongoing project progress.
• Assist with managing small to mid-sized projects, including tracking budgets, schedules, hours, and expenses.

Promote Safety and Risk Management

• Prepare and implement Job Hazard Analyses (JHAs) and Health and Safety Plans (HASPs).
• Promote a strong safety culture across project teams and job sites.
• Ensure compliance with company standards, regulatory requirements, permits, documentation requirements, and record retention policies.
• Identify project risks and contribute to mitigation strategies and corrective actions when needed.

Mentor and Develop Others

• Provide technical guidance, training, and mentorship to entry-level and junior field engineering staff.
• Share best practices and contribute to continuous improvement efforts across project teams.
• Support a collaborative team environment focused on quality, safety, professional development, and client service.

Additional Responsibilities

• Remain current on industry trends, field engineering practices, construction methods, and regulatory requirements.
• Exercise sound judgment and ethical decision-making in all business activities.
• Uphold KLJ's values, Code of Conduct, and commitment to excellence.
• Perform additional responsibilities as needed to support business objectives.

What We're Looking For

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or closely related field.
• 5+ years of professional field engineering experience supporting construction projects.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license required.
• Strong knowledge of field engineering principles, construction observation, project delivery, and quality management practices.
• Working knowledge of applicable construction laws, regulations, permitting requirements, and industry standards.
• Ability to interpret plans, specifications, contracts, regulatory requirements, and engineering documentation.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building abilities.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively with multidisciplinary teams.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and relevant engineering and construction software.
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel as required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting transportation, municipal, water, utility, or infrastructure construction projects.
• Experience managing small to medium-sized projects and coordinating field operations.
• Experience working directly with contractors, regulatory agencies, and public-sector clients.
• Demonstrated leadership experience mentoring junior staff and field personnel.

Why KLJ?

At KLJ, you'll join a team that believes infrastructure projects change communities for the better. We invest in our people by providing opportunities to grow professionally, take on meaningful responsibilities, and contribute to projects that have a lasting impact.

When you join KLJ, you'll find:

• Diverse and challenging infrastructure projects
• Opportunities for career advancement and leadership development
• A collaborative and supportive team environment
• Exposure to projects that improve communities and quality of life
• A culture centered on safety, innovation, integrity, and excellence

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here represent those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made for qualified individuals with disabilities.

Employees in this position regularly:

• Sit, stand, walk, stoop, kneel, crouch, and crawl
• Use hands to handle equipment, tools, and materials
• Reach with hands and arms
• Communicate clearly through speaking and hearing

Employees in this position must be able to:

• Walk on uneven terrain up to three miles per day
• Frequently lift and move up to 50 pounds
• Occasionally lift and move up to 75 pounds
• Utilize close vision, color vision, depth perception, and focus adjustment

Hours & Travel

• This position typically requires 40+ hours per week.
• Approximately 50% of time will be spent in the office and 50% in the field.
• During active construction seasons, field time may increase based on project requirements.
• Travel may be required depending on project assignments and client needs.

Compensation & Benefits

At KLJ, we recognize that attracting and retaining exceptional talent requires a competitive total rewards package.

Colorado Salary Range: $95,000 - $135,000 annually

Actual compensation will be based on experience, qualifications, Professional Engineer licensure status, technical expertise, geographic location, and overall fit for the role.

Benefits Include:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off and paid holidays
• Company-paid life and disability insurance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Professional development and continuing education support
• Professional licensing and certification assistance
• Wellness programs and employee engagement initiatives

KLJ is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating a workplace where all employees have the opportunity to grow, contribute, and succeed.