Aviation Project Engineer (Mid to Senior level)

DOWL is a top-ranked, multi-disciplined consulting firm with over 60 years of experience in civil engineering and related services. Our in-house expertise spans Civil and Land Development, Construction-Related Services, Transportation and Structures, and Water and Environmental Services. We support your growth, offer great benefits, and foster a culture of integrity, professionalism, and teamwork.

About the role

Join our team and take your career to new heights in the exciting world of aviation infrastructure. Our aviation project capabilities span the full spectrum—from securing funding and early-stage planning for existing airports to the construction of brand-new facilities. We serve a diverse range of clients, including municipal and general aviation airports, small to medium hub airports, airlines, and airport tenants. With a comprehensive suite of planning, design, and construction services, we deliver seamless, cost-effective project coordination that drives real impact in the communities we serve.

As an Aviation Project Engineer, you’ll contribute to a wide range of airport and aviation projects, from layout and master plans to environmental assessments at airports of all sizes, including major commercial hubs. You’ll engage in hands-on design, plan production, AutoCAD Civil 3D work, research, analysis, and technical writing, while also supporting public involvement and broader transportation and community planning efforts. This role offers the opportunity to work on meaningful projects that adhere to rigorous FAA standards in a collaborative, forward-thinking environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead technical efforts on a variety of project types, sizes, and complexities.
• Mentor others on technical tasks and skills, and perform quality control on moderately complex deliverables.
• Produce the following independently and oversee others with less experience:
  • Engineer’s design reports
  • Construction quantity calculations and cost estimates
  • Project plans and specifications
  • Construction safety and phasing plans
  • Airport Layout Plan development
  • Other technical reports, memos, and design documents
• Develop and manage project budgets and schedules, breaking down complex projects into logical tasks and mentoring others on prioritization.
• Interpret, select, and employ design codes (FAA advisory circulars, FAA orders, engineering briefs, and state-specific standard specifications) with advanced skill, and mentor others on code interpretation.
• Engage in frequent direct client communications to resolve technical issues on moderate to complex projects, lead client project meetings, and manage messaging and legal risks.
• Oversee team operations, workflow, and staff development, including recruitment, training, performance evaluations, and goal-setting (if in a supervisory role).
• Perform advanced technical work on large, complex projects with a high level of autonomy, including reviewing the work of others and handling some project management tasks.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (required).
• 6 years of experience (5 years with an advanced degree).
• Professional Engineer (PE) license (required).
• Valid driver’s license (required for site visits and business purposes).
• Proficiency in:
  • Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel)
  • Market sector software (AutoCAD Civil 3D, AviPlan, FAARFIELD 2.0, ADIP/AGIS preferred)
• Strong understanding of scopes, schedules, and budgets, with the ability to deliver tasks within set effort levels and prioritize multiple assignments.
• Ability to lead small teams (1-2 people) and work independently with clear communication and direction.

Skills

• Advanced technical expertise in aviation infrastructure design and planning.
• Strong analytical, research, and technical writing skills.
• Experience with FAA standards, regulations, and design codes.
• Ability to mentor and provide constructive feedback to team members.
• Excellent client interaction and communication skills, including leading project meetings.
• High level of autonomy and accountability for project delivery.

Benefits

DOWL offers great benefits and supports professional growth in a culture of integrity, professionalism, and teamwork.