Civil Design Manager - Site Design

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Civil Design Manager - Site Design

Company: Olsson

Location: Dallas, TX; Fort Worth, TX; Oklahoma City, OK; Tulsa, OK; Texas - Remote; Oklahoma - Remote

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Engineering & Design Operations

Date Posted: September 5, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: Hybrid/Remote Eligible

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage technical aspects of site design projects, ensuring high-quality deliverables and client satisfaction.

• Oversee quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) processes for civil design projects, implementing best practices.

• Provide senior-level design review and technical guidance to project staff, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

• Act as a key consultative resource for clients, addressing project resolutions and strengthening client relationships.

• Drive project efficiencies and promote the development of subject matter expertise within the site design team.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a leadership opportunity within Site Design, emphasizing technical expertise, project oversight, and client interaction. The "Manager" title, coupled with responsibilities like leading QA/QC and senior design review, indicates a senior individual contributor or team lead role focused on technical execution and mentorship rather than direct people management of a large team. The "Site Design" specialization highlights a focus on land development, commercial, residential, and industrial projects.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Direct and manage project staff on technical aspects, ensuring seamless coordination across all involved disciplines.

• Plan, oversee, and execute the quality review process for all project deliverables, adhering to company standards.

• Serve as a consultative resource to clients, offering expert advice for project resolution and strategic planning.

• Continuously strengthen and develop subject matter expertise in specialized design areas, contributing to the team's knowledge base.

• Provide senior-level design review for various projects, acting as a primary resource for complex technical challenges and solutions.

• Assist in the preparation of project studies by completing drawings, sketching, and acquiring critical data.

• Promote and implement efficiencies in design processes to ensure the production of high-quality, timely work.

• Supervise and review the assignments and development of less experienced design staff, providing mentorship and guidance.

• Conduct site visits to construction locations to monitor progress and address any on-site technical issues.

• Collaborate with project managers to ensure technical requirements align with project scope, budget, and schedule.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities listed highlight a blend of technical leadership, quality management, and client engagement. The emphasis on "directs and manages staff on technical aspects" and "supervises and reviews assignments" suggests a mentoring and oversight role, common for senior individual contributors or leads within engineering firms. The inclusion of "attending client meetings" and "consultative resource to clients" points to a client-facing component of the role, requiring strong communication and problem-solving skills.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Associate Degree in Drafting or a related technical field.

Experience: Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in Civil Design, with a strong emphasis on site development.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in AutoCAD Civil 3D for 10+ years, demonstrating advanced command of its design and drafting capabilities.

• Demonstrated project management skills for medium-sized land development projects, including scope, schedule, and resource allocation.

• Strong technical leadership abilities, including the capacity to guide and mentor junior designers.

• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, for effective client interaction and internal team collaboration.

• Proven ability to contribute effectively and work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team environment.

• Solid understanding of quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) principles in civil engineering design.

• Experience with site development design for mixed-use, commercial, and residential projects.

• Ability to travel to job sites and attend client meetings as required. Preferred Skills:

• Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering or a related field.

• Experience with other relevant CAD or design software (e.g., MicroStation, GIS software).

• Familiarity with local municipal regulations and permitting processes in Texas and Oklahoma.

• Experience in preparing project studies and technical reports.

• Knowledge of sustainable design principles and stormwater management best practices.

• Demonstrated ability to manage client relationships and contribute to business development efforts.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for an Associate Degree in Drafting combined with 10 years of AutoCAD Civil 3D experience suggests the role values practical, hands-on design expertise. Project management skills for "medium-sized projects" indicates a need for organizational and execution capabilities beyond pure design. The emphasis on communication and teamwork is critical for a role that bridges technical execution and client interaction.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase detailed examples of site design projects managed from concept through completion, highlighting your specific contributions.

• Include case studies demonstrating your application of AutoCAD Civil 3D for complex site layout, grading, drainage, and utility design.

• Present examples of your QA/QC process implementation, illustrating how you ensured design accuracy and compliance.

• Provide evidence of your project management approach for medium-sized projects, including scope definition, schedule adherence, and problem-solving.

• Demonstrate your ability to coordinate design elements across multiple disciplines (e.g., structural, architectural, environmental). Process Documentation:

• Document your approach to leading design review sessions and implementing feedback for design improvements.

• Illustrate your methods for establishing and maintaining quality control checkpoints throughout the design lifecycle.

• Outline your strategies for improving design efficiency and workflow optimization within a CAD environment.

• Detail your process for technical coordination with internal teams, external consultants, and regulatory agencies.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Civil Design Manager role, a portfolio is crucial for showcasing practical application of skills. Emphasis should be on completed projects that demonstrate technical proficiency in site design using AutoCAD Civil 3D, project management capabilities, and a systematic approach to quality assurance. The ability to articulate and demonstrate design processes is key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for a Civil Design Manager with 10+ years of experience in the Dallas/Fort Worth and Oklahoma City/Tulsa metropolitan areas, the estimated salary range is $90,000 - $130,000 annually. This estimate considers the senior technical nature of the role, responsibilities in QA/QC and design review, and the cost of living in these major Texas and Oklahoma cities. Remote positions may be adjusted based on local market data.

Benefits:

• Competitive 401(k) match to support retirement savings.

• Comprehensive health care, vision, and dental insurance plans.

• Generous paid time off (PTO) for work-life balance and personal needs.

• Opportunity to participate in a performance-based bonus system.

• Robust wellness program designed to promote balanced and healthy lifestyles.

• Flexible work arrangements, including remote and hybrid options.

• Professional development opportunities and tailored career paths.

Working Hours: A standard 40-hour work week is typical, with flexibility often available for remote and hybrid employees. Some evening or weekend work may be required during peak project periods or for critical client meetings, with compensatory time off or flexible scheduling encouraged.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimation is based on publicly available compensation data for Civil Design Managers and Senior Civil Designers in Texas and Oklahoma, factoring in the specified experience level and the company's stated commitment to competitive compensation. Benefits are directly pulled from the provided text, emphasizing aspects attractive to professionals seeking stability and work-life balance.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering & Design Services, with specialties in civil engineering, land development, transportation, environmental, and architecture. Olsson focuses on improving the world through its engineering and design solutions.

Company Size: Olsson is a large, established firm, likely employing hundreds or thousands of professionals across multiple disciplines and locations. This size offers stability, diverse project opportunities, and structured career paths.

Founded: 1956. With a long history, Olsson has a well-established reputation, deep industry experience, and a proven track record of delivering impactful projects.

Team Structure:

• The Site Design group is a key division within Olsson's broader engineering services. This role is within the Site Design team, likely collaborating closely with other civil designers, project engineers, and project managers.

• The reporting structure will likely involve reporting to a Principal Engineer, Director of Site Design, or a Senior Project Manager overseeing multiple projects.

• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, involving coordination with other engineering disciplines (e.g., structural, environmental, transportation), surveyors, architects, and client representatives. Methodology:

• Data-driven design processes, utilizing advanced CAD software for precise modeling and analysis.

• Emphasis on quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) to ensure design integrity and compliance with standards.

• Workflow optimization strategies to enhance efficiency and deliver projects on time and within budget.

• Collaborative problem-solving approach to tackle complex design challenges.

Company Website: https://www.olsson.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company description emphasizes a people-centric approach, a commitment to improving the world, and a focus on results. This suggests a culture that values collaboration, innovation, and professional growth, which is attractive to experienced engineers and designers. The firm's long history (since 1956) indicates stability and a strong industry presence.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is at a senior individual contributor or technical lead level. It requires extensive technical expertise and the ability to oversee complex projects and guide junior staff. While not a direct management role, it demands leadership in technical execution and quality.

Reporting Structure: Typically reports to a Senior Project Manager, Director of Site Design, or a Principal Engineer. This position will likely supervise or mentor junior civil designers and drafters.

Operations Impact: The Civil Design Manager plays a critical role in shaping the physical environment through successful land development projects. Their work directly impacts community infrastructure, commercial viability, and residential quality, contributing significantly to Olsson's mission of improving the world. Their technical leadership ensures project success, client satisfaction, and the firm's reputation for quality engineering.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advancement to Project Manager roles, taking on broader responsibility for project financials, client relationships, and team leadership.

• Specialization in niche areas of civil engineering, such as stormwater management, transportation design, or sustainable development.

• Transition into a Principal Engineer or Technical Director role, becoming a key technical authority and thought leader within the firm.

• Opportunities to mentor and develop future generations of civil designers and engineers.

• Potential to contribute to business development initiatives by leveraging client relationships and technical expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Manager" title in this context likely signifies a senior technical leader rather than a people manager. Growth paths would typically involve moving into full project management, specialized technical leadership, or principal-level roles, reflecting a career progression within a technical discipline.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Olsson offers flexible work arrangements, including on-site, hybrid, and fully remote options. The on-site environment is likely professional and collaborative, designed to support design work and team interaction.

Office Location(s): Multiple offices in Texas (Dallas, Fort Worth) and Oklahoma (Oklahoma City, Tulsa), as well as remote opportunities within these states. This provides geographic flexibility for candidates.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is designed to facilitate collaborative design efforts, with access to advanced CAD software and necessary hardware.

• Opportunities for direct interaction with colleagues, fostering knowledge sharing and problem-solving through teamwork.

• On-site offices would offer dedicated workstations and meeting rooms for client presentations and internal reviews.

• Remote/hybrid work leverages technology for seamless communication and project collaboration, supported by company-provided tools.

Work Schedule: Standard 40-hour work week, with flexibility for remote and hybrid employees. The nature of design projects may occasionally require extended hours to meet deadlines, but the company culture supports work-life balance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on flexible work options (remote, hybrid) is a significant aspect of the work environment, catering to modern professional preferences and promoting work-life balance. This flexibility, combined with the company's commitment to community impact, suggests a supportive and forward-thinking work culture.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess qualifications against the job requirements.

• Technical Interview: Likely involves a deep dive into your experience with AutoCAD Civil 3D, site design principles, project management methodologies, and QA/QC processes. Be prepared to discuss specific project challenges and how you resolved them.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session to walk through your submitted portfolio. Focus on clearly articulating your role, the technical solutions implemented, and the outcomes achieved for each project.

• Behavioral/Cultural Fit Interview: Questions assessing your collaboration style, problem-solving approach, passion for community impact, and alignment with Olsson's values.

• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership or a hiring manager to discuss overall fit and long-term career aspirations within Olsson.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 representative projects that best showcase your site design expertise, AutoCAD Civil 3D proficiency, and project management capabilities.

• Highlight Your Role: Clearly define your specific contributions, responsibilities, and technical decisions within each project.

• Quantify Results: Whenever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the impact of your work (e.g., efficiency gains, cost savings, successful permit approvals).

• Showcase QA/QC: Include examples that illustrate your systematic approach to quality assurance and control.

• Design Process Clarity: Be prepared to explain your design methodologies, problem-solving techniques, and how you collaborate with teams.

• Visual Appeal: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually appealing, and easy to navigate.

Challenge Preparation:

• Technical Scenarios: Be ready to discuss hypothetical site design challenges (e.g., complex grading issues, stormwater management solutions, site constraints) and how you would approach them technically.

• Process Improvement: Prepare examples of how you have improved design workflows, implemented new CAD techniques, or enhanced QA/QC processes in previous roles.

• Collaboration & Communication: Practice articulating how you would coordinate with different disciplines, resolve conflicts, and communicate technical information to non-technical stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely focus on validating technical skills through portfolio review and discussing how candidates apply their expertise to solve real-world site design challenges. Demonstrating a structured approach to QA/QC and project management will be key.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• AutoCAD Civil 3D: Essential for all aspects of site design, including grading, earthwork calculations, utility design, road design, and plan production. Advanced proficiency is a must.

• Microsoft Office Suite: For project documentation, reporting, client communications, and administrative tasks (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).

• Project Management Software: While not explicitly listed, experience with common PM tools (e.g., Microsoft Project, Asana, Monday.com) may be beneficial for managing project timelines and resources.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Civil 3D Functionality: Utilized for generating reports on earthwork quantities, drainage calculations, and design parameters.

• Excel: For data analysis, financial tracking, and creating custom reports related to project performance and efficiency.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly stated for this role, familiarity with CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot) might be beneficial for understanding client interactions within the broader company context.

• Automation within Civil 3D itself (e.g., LISP routines, templates) could be a plus for improving design efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: AutoCAD Civil 3D is the core technical tool for this role. Proficiency in its advanced features for site design is paramount. Standard office productivity tools are also expected.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Improving the World: A core value driving the company's mission; candidates should demonstrate a passion for creating positive community impact through their work.

• Responsiveness, Transparency, and Results: Olsson promises these to its people, clients, and company. Expect a culture that values clear communication, accountability, and achieving project goals.

• People-Centric: A focus on employee growth, creativity, and talent development, fostering a supportive and engaging work environment.

• Collaboration and Ownership: Encouraging teamwork, shared responsibility, and individual initiative in project execution.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Strong emphasis on working effectively with other engineering disciplines, architects, surveyors, and project managers to achieve holistic project solutions.

• Mentorship and Knowledge Sharing: A culture that supports the transfer of expertise from senior staff to junior team members, fostering continuous learning.

• Open Communication: Encouraging direct and transparent communication to resolve issues, share feedback, and ensure project alignment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company values emphasize impact, integrity, and people development. Candidates should be prepared to articulate how their professional approach aligns with these principles, particularly the "improving the world" mission and the commitment to responsiveness and results.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Technical Expertise with Project Oversight: Effectively managing multiple projects or complex technical aspects while ensuring quality and efficiency.

• Navigating Diverse Project Requirements: Adapting design solutions to meet the unique needs of various project types (mixed-use, commercial, residential, industrial).

• Coordinating Stakeholders: Effectively managing communication and expectations among internal teams, clients, and regulatory bodies.

• Staying Ahead of Technology: Continuously learning and adapting to new features in AutoCAD Civil 3D and emerging design technologies.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas like stormwater management, site grading optimization, or sustainable design practices.

• Project Management Skills: Develop advanced project management capabilities through hands-on experience and potential training.

• Leadership Development: Opportunities to mentor junior staff, lead technical initiatives, and potentially transition into management or principal roles.

• Industry Engagement: Participation in industry conferences, workshops, and professional development programs to stay current with best practices and regulations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for a senior technical role in a design firm, focusing on complex problem-solving, stakeholder management, and continuous learning. Growth opportunities are well-defined, leading towards greater technical leadership or project management responsibilities.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you led the QA/QC process for a complex site design project. What steps did you take, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on process, methodology, and results).

• "How do you approach technical coordination with other disciplines (e.g., structural, environmental) to ensure seamless project integration?" (Highlight collaboration and communication strategies).

• "Walk us through a challenging site design problem you encountered and how you used AutoCAD Civil 3D to develop and implement a solution." (Demonstrate problem-solving, technical skill, and use of tools). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Olsson's mission to 'improve the world' and how do you see your role contributing to that?" (Connect personal values to company mission).

• "How do you align with Olsson's values of responsiveness, transparency, and results?" (Provide specific examples of embodying these values).

• "Describe your ideal work environment and how you collaborate with team members, especially in a hybrid or remote setting." (Assess cultural fit and adaptability). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly state the objective, your specific role and contributions, the technical challenges, the solutions implemented (especially using Civil 3D), and the final results or impact.

• Quantify Success: Use numbers and data to support your achievements (e.g., "reduced grading costs by 15%," "successfully navigated complex permit requirements").

• Demonstrate Process: Explain your thought process, design methodology, and how you ensured quality and efficiency.

• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about your design decisions, software usage, and problem-solving approaches.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating technical depth with AutoCAD Civil 3D, strong project management capabilities, a systematic approach to quality, and alignment with Olsson's core values, particularly its mission-driven aspect.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Civil Design Manager - Site Design position:

• Submit your application through the provided greenhouse.io link, ensuring all requested fields are completed accurately.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your 10+ years of AutoCAD Civil 3D experience, project management accomplishments for medium-sized projects, and any specific site design project types (mixed-use, commercial, residential) relevant to Olsson's portfolio. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate your strongest site design projects, focusing on demonstrating your technical skills in AutoCAD Civil 3D, your QA/QC processes, and your project management approach. Be ready to articulate your specific contributions and project outcomes.

• Research Olsson: Understand their mission, values, and recent projects. Prepare to discuss how your aspirations align with their commitment to "improving the world" and their client-focused approach.

• Practice Your Narrative: Rehearse your responses to common interview questions, focusing on providing concise, impactful answers that showcase your technical expertise, leadership potential, and collaborative spirit. Be ready to present your portfolio effectively.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.