DC Civil Practice Lead — Lead Projects & Growth

• Compensation: USD 150,000 - USD 180,000 - yearly

Company Description

About KPFF

KPFF is a collaborative and creative team of civil and structural engineers and surveyors that thrive on designing innovative solutions for projects of all scales. KPFF is a leader in sustainable design, providing our clients with visionary, environmentally sensitive and technically advanced services. Our company islarge (1,500+ employees across 36 offices), but nimble and operates day-to-day with the flexibility of a small firm. We have a great group of collaborative and dedicated engineers in a family-friendly, businesscasual environment.

The Portland Civil + Survey office (including Eugene and Washington DC staff) consists of 108 employees including 46 PEs and 4 PLSs. Our core civil practice focuses on site development, public utility and roadway infrastructure, parks and trails, and innovative stormwater management. Our survey team focuses on boundary staking, topo surveying, construction layout, drone missions, and building inspections. We work on many different and exciting design projects including education and healthcare facilities, national parks, cultural centers, zoos and museums, as well as government and international facilities. We believe in encouraging personal and professional growth, and we work hard at providing a solid structure with minimal organizational restrictions.

KPFF is more than just the work we do, we are the relationships we build, both with our clients and with our co-workers. To foster those relationships and build up our employees, KPFF offers a number of growth opportunities and social events, with monthly lunchtime learning opportunities, outside speakers, and structured growth programs, employees are offered the opportunity to grow and expand their knowledge.

Job Description

KPFF is seeking a Senior Civil Engineer to lead and expand its Civil practice in the Washington, DC Metro Region, offering a path to ownership and entrepreneurial opportunities within a supportive and flexible design firm environment.

• Leadership opportunity for experienced engineer : The role targets senior civil engineers with 10-15 years of experience ready to lead the DC office and drive business development with autonomy and support.
• Ideal candidate profile : Candidates should have strong private civil consulting experience mainly in DC/MD/VA, client-facing skills, general site development expertise, and the ability to manage multiple projects while delivering excellent client service.
• Company culture and team : KPFF is a collaborative, creative firm of 1,500+ employees across 36 offices, known for sustainable design and a family-friendly, business casual environment with opportunities for professional growth and development.
• Compensation and application : The position offers a salary range of $150,000-$180,000 and encourages applicants who seek autonomy and growth in a non-bureaucratic setting to apply. Once a path to ownership has been achieved, the salary becomes part of a total compensation package with additional long-term bonuses and stock options.

Are you at a place in your career where you want to start your own business but are looking for financial stability at the same time? This is an opportunity for a path to ownership for the right person. We offer the opportunity to pursue your passions with the backing of a successful, creative group of professionals.

Are you experiencing any of the following circumstances?

• You feel stuck in an organization with a bureaucratic hierarchy that drives you nuts
• You have little autonomy and wish you could be doing more to positively impact your team
• You are excited to maybe start your own business but are looking for financial stability at the same time
• You want trust, autonomy, and support to lead projects and business development in the DC Metro region with the desire to help grow a sustainable presence in the area

If this describes you, we want to meet you!

Qualifications

• 10-15 years of experience primarily in the DC/MD/VA region
• Registered Professional Engineer (PE) with an active license
• Strong background in private civil consulting, with experience focusedon general site development
• Proven client-facing experience with solid local connections and contacts to generate new project opportunities
• Strong technical proficiency in AutoCAD Civil3D
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and competing priorities effectively
• Passionate about providing exceptional client service and building lasting client relationships
• Ability to lead, mentor, and develop staff while effectively managing and directing project resources

Additional Information

Compensation

The base pay for this role is competitive and will be determined based on the candidate's experience, education, and skills. The expected salary range for this Senior Civil Engineer Lead position is $150,000 - $180,000 . Additionally, we offer performance-based bonuses to recognize and reward outstanding contributions in each Reporting Center.

At KPFF, your career growth and well-being matter. We offer a supportive environment that values autonomy, innovation, and teamwork. Here, your contributions are celebrated, your ideas are welcomed, and your career has room to grow.

• Mentorship & Growth: Through KPFF’s Forefront Education Program, you’ll have access to continuous learning, leadership development, and opportunities to advance your career while helping others do the same
• Strong Connections: We believe in trust, collaboration, and long-term relationships, both with our clients and within our teams. Open communication and teamwork are at the heart of how we operate
• Supportive Culture: Your well-being matters. We encourage balance, provide resources for a healthy lifestyle, and create opportunities to connect through social activities and community events

We are passionate about supporting our employees through flexible and comprehensive Benefits:

• Medical Plan Options: PPO or HDHP with HSA, covering preventive care and prescriptions
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA): Tax-advantaged accounts for healthcare and dependent care
• Dental & Vision: Full preventive care plus coverage for major services
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Free, confidential support for personal, family, and work challenges
• Life & AD&D Insurance: Company-provided life insurance equal to one year’s salary
• 401(k) Retirement Plan: KPFF contributes 3% of salary, with no match required
• Disability Insurance: Short- and long-term coverage at 60% income, fully covered by KPFF
• Paid Time Off: Generous PTO, two floating holidays, and paid company holidays
• Paid Family Leave: Six weeks at 60% pay, with options to use PTO for full income
• Engineering License Support: Fee renewals, plus financial assistance for PE license applications and exams
• Professional Associations + Memberships: We cover the costs of membership in professional associations

Physical Demands

• Work is primarily performed in a standard office setting with long periods of work at a computer.
• Occasional lifting of items up to 15 pounds.
• Visits to construction sites may involve walking, standing, climbing stairs or ladders, navigating uneven surfaces, or exposure to weather.
• Local travel may be required for project meetings, observations, or client visits.

How To Apply:
Submit your application online, including a cover letter and resume.

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KPFF Consulting Engineers participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

KPFF Consulting Engineers is an equal opportunity employer and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, ethnicity, national origin, religion, marital status, sex/gender (including sexual orientation or gender identity), pregnancy, veteran status, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, or any other protected basis.

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