Civil Engineering Project Manager

About the role

KPFF's NorCal Civil team is seeking an experienced Civil Project Manager to join our San Franciso office. This role is ideal for a licensed engineer who enjoys leading projects, building client relationships, mentoring engineers, and helping drive the continued growth of a collaborative and entrepreneurial practice.

As a Project Manager, you will oversee the successful delivery of civil engineering projects from initial pursuit and planning through design, construction support, and project closeout. You will play a key role in managing client relationships, guiding project teams, and delivering high-quality solutions that serve our clients and communities.

What You'll Do

Project Leadership and Delivery

• Lead the planning, design, permitting, and execution of civil engineering and infrastructure projects.
• Manage project scope, schedules, budgets, and staffing to ensure successful project outcomes.
• Oversee project performance and proactively identify and resolve challenges throughout the project lifecycle.
• Coordinate with internal teams, clients, consultants, contractors, and public agencies to support effective project delivery.
• Provide technical leadership and direction for project teams.
• Review engineering calculations, plans, specifications, and technical reports for quality and accuracy.
• Ensure designs comply with applicable codes, regulations, and industry standards.
• Support innovative and practical engineering solutions that align with client goals and project objectives.

Client Relationships and Business Development

• Serve as a trusted advisor and primary point of contact for clients.
• Develop and maintain long-term client relationships through responsive service and successful project execution.
• Support proposal development, interviews, and project pursuits.
• Identify opportunities for repeat work, new services, and strategic growth.

Team Development and Mentorship

• Mentor and support engineers and designers as they develop their technical and project management skills.
• Foster a collaborative and inclusive team environment focused on continuous learning and professional growth.
• Delegate responsibilities effectively while maintaining accountability for project quality and performance.

Practice Growth and Innovation

• Contribute to office initiatives, process improvements, and operational excellence.
• Stay informed on emerging technologies, design tools, and industry trends.
• Support the continued growth and success of KPFF's NorCal Civil practice.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering
• Professional Engineer (PE) license required
• 10+ years of civil engineering experience, including project management responsibilities
• Demonstrated success managing civil engineering or infrastructure projects through all phases of delivery
• Proficiency with AutoCAD Civil 3D and standard project management tools
• Strong understanding of engineering design principles, permitting processes, and regulatory requirements
• Experience managing project budgets, schedules, contracts, and client expectations
• Excellent leadership, communication, and relationship-building skills
• Proven ability to mentor staff and lead multidisciplinary project teams

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in Civil Engineering or related field
• Experience supporting business development and client acquisition efforts
• Familiarity with sustainable design practices and frameworks such as LEED or Envision
• Established relationships within the Northern California engineering and development community

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while performing engineering and project management activities
• Ability to conduct occasional site visits and navigate active project sites
• Ability to lift and carry up to 15 pounds of equipment or materials as needed

Pay and benefits

The anticipated base salary range for this position is $94,000 - $150,000, depending on experience, qualifications, licensure, and overall alignment with the role.

In addition to base salary, employees are eligible for performance-based bonus opportunities and a comprehensive benefits package.

Why KPFF

At KPFF, you'll find the flexibility of a locally empowered office backed by the resources of a national firm. We believe great leaders are given the autonomy to build strong teams, develop lasting client relationships, and help shape the future of their practice.

• Our employees enjoy: Flexible schedules and work-life integration
• Generous paid time off and company holidays
• Two floating holidays each year
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with company contribution
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Company-paid life and disability insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan with a 3% company contribution
• Six weeks of paid family leave
• Professional development, mentorship, and leadership opportunities

Support for continuing education, professional licensure, and industry involvement