Field Engineer – Norfolk Naval Shipyard – Mid-Level

Moffatt & Nichol specializes in large complex waterfront infrastructure projects and is recognized as a worldwide leader in this field. We are a leading U.S.-based global infrastructure advisor specializing in the planning and design of facilities that shape and serve our coastlines, harbors, and rivers, as well as transportation innovation. Ranked #1 in Engineering News-Record for Marine & Port Facilities in the U.S. for five consecutive years, our firm consistently ranks in the Top 100 Pure Designers in the U.S. and the Top 50 Designers in International Markets. Our professional staff includes engineers, planners, scientists, and architects serving clients worldwide.

About the role

We are seeking an Onsite Project Engineer / Site Engineer to join us in December 2026 for a major Dry Dock 3 modernization project at Norfolk Naval Shipyard in Portsmouth, Virginia. This highly visible U.S. Navy construction project supports updated submarine classes and is expected to last through 2030. The role involves providing on-site consultation, technical solutions, and design post-construction administration services.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a field project engineer working on-site in Portsmouth, VA, five days per week to provide design post-construction administration services.
• Assist the Designer of Record (DOR) in providing technical solutions to unforeseen conditions and facilitate communication between the DOR and other stakeholders.
• Attend coordination meetings, safety meetings, and other stakeholder meetings on behalf of the DOR.
• Monitor construction progress and perform Quality Assurance (QA) to ensure adherence to plans and specifications; report any quality issues to NAVFAC and the DOR.
• Assist in reviewing submittals and requests for information; track progress and coordinate with stakeholders for timely completion.
• Provide a digital field consultation report for each site visit.
• Perform other related engineering duties as needed.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or a related field; concentration in Civil or Structural Engineering preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of structural/civil engineering design or construction experience.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license required.
• Availability to commence employment in December 2026.
• Field responsibilities will be 5 days per week in Portsmouth, VA, with planned hours of 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday; hours may vary due to construction requirements, weather, or daylight.
• Willingness to work from Moffatt & Nichol’s Norfolk, VA office on non-field days is preferred.
• Excellent communication and documentation skills with the ability to work independently and within a team.
• Valid driver’s license in good standing; a company vehicle will be provided.
• Possession of or eligibility to obtain a Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC).
• Possess a DBIDS card or eligibility to successfully pass a background check to secure a Department of Defense DBIDS card and an unescorted NAVSEA Badge or other security clearances as required by the client.
• Post-offer proof of U.S. citizenship and clear results of a thorough background check (credit and criminal history) are required.
• All new hires must successfully complete and pass a pre-employment background check in compliance with NIST 800-171.
• Employment is contingent upon the legal ability to work in the U.S. and required documentation at hire; Moffatt & Nichol uses E-Verify.

Working Conditions

• Work takes place primarily in the field, including during inclement weather.
• Field hours are typically 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM; office hours on non-field days are 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Flexible hours may be required to accommodate construction schedules.
• Travel to other job locations or offices may be required.
• Majority of work is field-based, requiring navigation of unpaved or natural terrain while carrying equipment.

Pay

Base salary range: $120,000 - $180,000, based on years of experience, level of education, professional registration, and meeting the required qualifications. Applicable for candidates hired and working in the Virginia market.

Benefits

• Low-cost employee healthcare with company-paid high-deductible medical, dental, and vision plans; family coverage and low-deductible plan options available.
• Generous HSA match to help manage healthcare expenses.
• Wellness Program with financial incentives, including monthly one-on-one sessions with nutritionists, access to a Healthwise Pharmacist, mindfulness apps (Calm and BetterHelp), and more.
• Free and confidential Employee Assistance Programs for counseling and support.
• Generous paid time off (15 to 25 days based on experience), 7 paid holidays, and a floating holiday.
• 401(k) match to support financial goals.
• Excellent life insurance coverage, fully paid by the company.
• Tuition Reimbursement Program for further education.
• Training opportunities, Leadership Development Program, formal Mentoring program, and an active Young Professionals (YP) group.
• Pet Insurance for furry family members.