Civil Engineer

About the role

The Mannik & Smith Group (MSG) is a people-focused, award-winning, full-service consulting firm offering civil and geotechnical engineering, environmental consulting, planning, landscape architecture, agriculture, surveying, and construction support. Our talented team of 650+ professionals delivers integrated planning, design, engineering, and construction solutions.

MSG is seeking an Associate Civil Engineer to join our team in Detroit and get real, hands-on experience across land development, municipal, and infrastructure projects. No fetching coffee, no shadowing from a distance — you'll be involved in every stage of a project, from design and permitting through field support and construction documentation, with experienced engineers who are genuinely invested in helping you grow (and eventually get licensed).

This role comes with a guaranteed seat in Blueprint, our new early career leadership program for engineers looking to grow beyond the typical entry-level experience. Over six months, you'll take part in a hands-on curriculum covering professional development, business acumen, and project delivery — including case studies, simulations, and role-play exercises — covering topics like project economics, communication, and leadership fundamentals. It all wraps up with an in-person capstone event where you'll present your work and map out your goals for the year ahead.

What You'll Do

• Develop civil engineering designs and drawings — site layouts, grading, drainage, utilities, and roadways — using AutoCAD Civil 3D
• Help navigate the permitting maze, preparing applications for local, state, and federal agencies (yes, it's a lot of acronyms — you'll get the hang of it)
• Prepare engineering calculations, feasibility studies, and technical reports that actually inform design decisions
• Collaborate with project managers, surveyors, and other engineering disciplines to deliver coordinated solutions
• Support stormwater management and drainage design (prior software experience a plus, not a requirement)
• Get out of the office for site visits and field inspections to see your designs come to life — and troubleshoot when they don't quite go as planned

What You Bring

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or a related field
• 0–3 years of civil engineering design experience (land development or municipal projects preferred, but we know everyone starts somewhere)
• Proficiency in AutoCAD Civil 3D and related engineering software
• Genuine interest in stormwater management and site development design
• EIT certification preferred (or a willingness to get there)
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills
• Comfort working in a team-oriented, multidisciplinary environment
• Motivation to grow professionally and pursue licensure (PE a plus)

Why MSG?

• 401(k) with company match
• Health insurance with HSA option, Vision, Dental, Life
• Flexible schedule
• Paid time off
• Referral program
• Tuition reimbursement
• Catalytic Coaching — a personalized development plan built to grow your contributions today and your opportunities tomorrow. At MSG, bringing out the best in our people isn't a slogan — it's how we operate.

Location: Detroit, MI  |  Compensation: $27.00 - $30.00 / hour