Design Lead

About this Role A Design Lead at HBK Engineering is a position responsible for leading the coordination of detailed design phases for all aspects of utility engineering work. This senior‑level role involves applying broad knowledge of engineering principles and practices while directly overseeing a team of up to 6 entry‑ and mid‑level engineering staff. The position requires independently evaluating, selecting, and adapting standard techniques and procedures to address unique and complex electrical, structural, civil, and construction‑related challenges while interfacing directly with clients on technical design considerations. A key component of this role includes driving utility/roadway conflict analysis, right‑of‑way (ROW) engineering corridors, and managing design packages that interface with municipal and state DOT frameworks. This position can be seated in one of the following office locations: Chicago, IL; Oak Brook, IL; Geneva, IL; Spring, TX; or Denver, CO. What You'll Do 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. Evaluate utility impacts on roadway profiles, perform utility conflict matrix tracking, and design distribution reroutes around complex municipal and DOT roadway expansion corridors. Coordinate directly with public works departments, utility asset owners, and state/local DOT permitting agencies to secure necessary Right‑of‑Way (ROW), maintenance of traffic (MOT), and utility occupancy permits. 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. Directly oversee a team of up to 6 entry‑ and mid‑level engineering staff, approve timesheets, and conduct annual reviews. Work with project management to load balance engineering resources across projects. Coach and mentor entry‑level and mid‑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 including project scope, technical design considerations, and material selection. Own all phases of the design lifecycle from project initiation through construction completion and closeout. 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. Develop utility pole loading models using structural software. Generate material and equipment purchase order requests. 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 25%. What You'll Bring 5+ years of relevant experience in utility engineering, civil site development, or roadway infrastructure design. Proven familiarity with utility coordination standards, roadway construction specification manuals (e.g., DOT/IDOT/TxDOT/CDOT standard specifications), and public right‑of‑way permitting protocols. In‑depth knowledge of 2D CADD software (AutoCAD, MicroStation, or similar) including generating layout drawings and project materials. Experience reviewing drawings or engineering materials developed by others. Staff management and team oversight experience, with a track record of training and mentoring entry‑and mid‑level staff. Associate degree in a related technical field (preferred). Related technical certificates in CADD and related software platforms (preferred). 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. Understanding of remote communication software for cross‑office collaboration. 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. What You'll Get Leadership opportunities overseeing up to 6 engineering staff members Direct client interface and relationship management responsibilities Professional growth within the HBK Organization's senior Design Track Opportunity to lead coordination of complex utility engineering projects Team management experience with timesheet approval and annual review responsibilities Collaborative work environment with project management and engineering leadership Travel opportunities for field work and client engagement Career advancement opportunities in senior design leadership roles. 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. Compensation Range The anticipated compensation for this position is - depending on experience and qualifications. Equal Opportunity Employer 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr