Construction Project Engineer – Akron, OH

Celebrating 100 years of building community, Higley Construction is a 100% employee-owned firm and one of the most experienced and respected construction companies in the region. Founded in 1925, Higley has partnered with clients to bring their goals and visions to life, guided by core values of people, ethics, respect, commitment, and excellence. The company builds more than structures—it builds trust, relationships, and communities, creating environments where people live, work, and thrive. As an employee-owned company through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), Higley fosters a culture of shared success, job stability, and long-term financial growth.

About the role

The Project Engineer (PE) is an entry-level position designed to expose candidates to various career paths within the firm over 3-5 years. Through rotations in operations, safety, project controls, estimating, and business development, the PE develops foundational skills and determines a career path aligned with their interests. The role involves reporting to different departmental and project leaders, rotating between office and field assignments, and providing exceptional customer service to colleagues, owners, architects, engineers, subcontractors, and other stakeholders. This is an evergreen opportunity to build a talent pipeline for future full-time openings in Akron, Ohio.

Responsibilities

• Demonstrate an understanding of Higley Construction’s values and ethics.
• Read and interpret construction drawings and documents, and understand industry terminology.
• Commit to problem-solving, process improvement, and contributing to initiatives beyond the scope of the position.
• Build a professional network of industry and community relationships.
• Manage project engineering duties, including RFIs, submittals, drawing coordination, meeting minutes, and project correspondence.
• Play an active role in maintaining a safe and secure job site.
• Assist the Project Manager with change management and the Superintendent with field coordination and subcontractor management.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Skills and Abilities

• Competency in business writing and public presentation skills; motivated to become a compelling presenter and team leader.
• Excellence in personal work habits and dedication to becoming a project leader.
• Competency or willingness to learn multiple construction software programs.
• Strong problem-solving skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or a construction-related field, or relevant experience.
• 1-2 years of experience in engineering, construction management, or a related field is beneficial but not required.
• Engineering certifications, such as an EIT, are a plus.
• Completion of co-op work rotations or similar experience is advantageous.

Benefits

• 100% Employee-Owned through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).
• 25 days of Paid Time Off.
• 9 Paid Holidays.
• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance.
• Pet Insurance.
• Health/Dependent Care Reimbursement Accounts.
• 401k Contributions/Match.
• Life Insurance/AD&D.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Volunteer Time Off & Gift Match Program.
• Paid Birthday Leave.
• Paid Family Leave.
• Paid Military Leave.
• Short & Long Term Disability.
• Years of Service Awards.
• $1,500 Referral Bonus.
• Mentorship Program.
• Tuition/Certification Reimbursement.
• Up to 16 hours/week of remote work.
• Casual Friday Policy.
• Cell Phone Reimbursement.
• Apparel Allowance.
• Enterprise/National Rental Benefits.

Job Requirements

The following outlines the essential functions of this role. Reasonable accommodations will be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions. This position is classified as safety-sensitive as defined by the U.S. Department of Labor.

• Physical Activities: Driving to and from office, jobsites, meetings, and other work-related locations. Climbing ladders and scaffolding, working at heights up to 80 feet, and entering confined or tight spaces. Standing or sitting for extended periods, walking on varied surfaces (including snow or ice), and lifting or adjusting objects weighing 30-50 pounds. Frequent use of hands and arms to handle tools, equipment, and materials, including operating power tools, machinery, and heavy equipment. Ability to wear fall protection gear and respiratory protection.
• Environmental Conditions: Exposure to high and low temperatures, inclement weather (rain, wind, snow), wet conditions, dusty environments, extreme noise, poor ventilation, and small or enclosed spaces. Some tasks may involve no adverse environmental conditions.

This position requires pre-employment and ongoing annual/random drug and alcohol testing. Higley Construction prohibits employees from being under the influence of substances during work hours.