Principal Engineering Designer

Location: San Diego, CA
Compensation: $45.00 – $55.50 per hour (Approximately $93,600 – $115,440 annually)

About the Organization

A leading engineering consulting firm is seeking a Principal Engineering Designer to join its growing team in San Diego, California. The organization delivers innovative civil engineering and land development solutions for a diverse portfolio of public and private sector projects. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to impactful land development projects while collaborating with experienced multidisciplinary professionals in a dynamic and supportive environment.

Job Overview

The Principal Engineering Designer will play a key role in supporting land development projects throughout Southern California. This position is responsible for preparing engineering designs, grading plans, and construction documents while collaborating with project managers and engineering teams to deliver high-quality projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare grading plans from conceptual design through final construction plans.
  

• Support residential, commercial, and mixed-use land development projects.
  

• Design roadway alignments, drainage systems, and perform earthwork calculations.
  

• Prepare engineering drawings and construction documents using AutoCAD Civil 3D.
  

• Coordinate with engineers, planners, surveyors, and other project stakeholders.
  

• Ensure designs comply with applicable engineering standards and local jurisdictional requirements.
  

• Assist with project planning, design coordination, and technical documentation.
  

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering (BSCE) or equivalent experience (8 years).
  

• Minimum of 4 years of experience in land development engineering.
  

• Strong experience preparing grading plans from conceptual design through final plans.
  

• Experience with subdivision and land development projects, including roadway design, drainage, and earthwork calculations.
  

• Proficiency in AutoCAD Civil 3D.
  

• Strong communication, organizational, and teamwork skills.
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification.
  

• Ability to obtain a California Professional Engineer (PE) license within 12 months.
  

• Knowledge of California jurisdictional codes, standards, and permitting procedures.
  

Benefits

• Overtime and performance-based bonus opportunities.
  

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
  

• Profit sharing and 401(k) retirement plan.
  

• Life and disability insurance.
  

• Paid personal leave.
  

• Team-building activities, company events, and flexible work schedule options.