Civil Design Manager - Site Design

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Civil Design Manager - Site Design

Company: Olsson

Location: Missouri - Remote, North Kansas City, MO, Overland Park, KS, St. Louis, MO, Wichita, KS

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Engineering / Site Design Operations

Date Posted: April 14, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: Hybrid / Remote Options Available

🚀 Role Summary

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

• Drive quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) processes for civil design projects, maintaining operational excellence.

• Provide senior-level design review and technical guidance to project teams, fostering efficient project execution.

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

• Champion the development and implementation of sustainable and innovative site design solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role sits within the 'Site Design' group, indicating a focus on land development engineering. The responsibilities suggest a blend of technical leadership, quality management, and client-facing project advisory, aligning with a senior operations-focused engineering role. The emphasis on QA/QC and project staff management points to operational oversight within the design process.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Direct and manage project staff on technical aspects of civil site design projects, ensuring seamless coordination across all involved disciplines.

• Plan, implement, and oversee rigorous quality review processes for all project deliverables, upholding Olsson's standards of excellence.

• Serve as a primary consultative resource for clients, offering expert advice and solutions for project challenges.

• Continuously strengthen and expand subject matter expertise in specific civil design areas, contributing to the team's technical depth.

• Conduct senior-level design reviews for a variety of projects, acting as a go-to resource for resolving complex technical issues.

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

• Drive efficiencies in the production of quality work, optimizing workflows and resource allocation.

• Supervise and mentor less experienced staff, providing guidance and support to foster their professional development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong emphasis on process management (QA/QC, project staff direction) and technical oversight. The role requires not just design expertise but also the ability to manage the operational execution of design projects, ensuring efficiency and quality.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

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

Experience: Minimum of 10 years of experience in CAD software, specifically AutoCAD Civil 3D, and demonstrated project management skills for medium-sized projects.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in AutoCAD Civil 3D software for comprehensive site design and drafting.

• Proven ability to manage medium-sized civil design projects from initiation to completion.

• Strong communication skills, essential for client interaction and team collaboration.

• Demonstrated ability to contribute effectively and collaborate within a multidisciplinary team environment.

• Experience in Quality Assurance (QA) and Quality Control (QC) processes for design deliverables.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with other relevant civil engineering design software and tools.

• Familiarity with land development regulations and permitting processes across various jurisdictions.

• Knowledge of sustainable design principles and practices.

• Experience in client relationship management and business development support.

• Mentorship and team development experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for 10+ years of CAD experience, particularly with AutoCAD Civil 3D, coupled with project management skills, positions this as a senior technical operations role. The Associate Degree in Drafting is a foundational requirement, emphasizing practical, hands-on design and system proficiency.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrable examples of successfully managed civil site design projects, showcasing scope, complexity, and project lifecycle.

• Case studies detailing specific design challenges, proposed solutions, and implemented methodologies for land development projects.

• Evidence of quality assurance and quality control processes applied to design deliverables, highlighting error reduction and improved accuracy.

• Documentation illustrating project management capabilities, including planning, resource allocation, and timeline adherence.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow designs and optimization strategies for civil site design projects, emphasizing efficiency and clarity.

• Implementation and automation methods used to streamline design processes and improve output.

• Measurement and performance analysis of design processes, including metrics for quality, timeliness, and client satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Civil Design Manager role, a portfolio should showcase not only design output but also the candidate's ability to manage the design process, ensure quality, and lead teams. The emphasis on QA/QC and technical review implies a need to demonstrate how processes were implemented and improved.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on the experience level (10+ years), required skills, and the hybrid/remote work options, a competitive salary range for a Civil Design Manager in the Missouri/Kansas region would typically fall between $90,000 - $130,000 annually. This estimate considers industry benchmarks for senior engineering and management roles, factoring in cost of living for the specified locations and the value placed on specialized CAD and project management expertise.

Benefits:

• Competitive 401(k) match to support long-term financial planning.

• Comprehensive health care, vision, and dental insurance plans for employee and family well-being.

• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) to ensure work-life balance and employee rejuvenation.

• Opportunity to participate in a performance-based bonus system, rewarding contributions and achievements.

• Participation in a wellness program designed to promote balanced lifestyles and employee health.

• Flexible work arrangements, including remote and hybrid options, offering significant autonomy and work-life integration.

Working Hours: Typically 40 hours per week, with flexibility potentially available due to the hybrid/remote work options, allowing for adaptation to project needs and personal schedules.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimated based on industry data for Civil Design Managers with 10+ years of experience in the Midwest US, considering the remote/hybrid flexibility. Benefits are directly pulled from the provided text, highlighting attractive aspects for operations-minded professionals.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering and Design Services, specializing in land development, infrastructure, and environmental solutions.

Company Size: Olsson is a substantial firm, indicated by its presence in multiple locations and the breadth of services offered. This suggests a stable, well-resourced organization with established operational processes.

Founded: 1956, indicating a long history and deep-rooted expertise in the engineering and design sector.

Team Structure:

• The Site Design group is a specialized division within Olsson, likely comprising civil engineers, designers, drafters, and project managers.

• Reporting structure would typically involve a direct report to a senior engineering leader or director, with the Civil Design Manager overseeing a team of project staff and less experienced personnel.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis & Insights: Leveraging project data and performance metrics to inform design decisions and process improvements.

• Workflow Planning & Optimization: Developing and refining standardized workflows for site design projects to enhance efficiency and quality.

• Automation & Efficiency Practices: Employing technology and best practices to automate repetitive tasks and optimize resource utilization, particularly within CAD and project management.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company description highlights a "people-centric firm" focused on growth, creativity, and positive impact. This suggests a culture that values employee development and community contribution, which is often attractive to operations professionals seeking purpose-driven work.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior-level position within the Civil Design operations, bridging technical expertise with management responsibilities. It's a key leadership position focused on the operational execution and quality assurance of site design projects.

Reporting Structure: The Civil Design Manager will likely report to a Director of Engineering or a similar senior leadership role within the firm. They will, in turn, manage and mentor junior engineers, designers, and drafters.

Operations Impact: The Civil Design Manager directly impacts Olsson's operational efficiency, project quality, and client satisfaction. By ensuring robust QA/QC, efficient project execution, and strong client relationships, they contribute significantly to the firm's reputation, profitability, and ability to secure future projects.

Growth Opportunities:

• Progression to Director of Engineering or similar senior leadership roles, expanding management scope and strategic responsibility.

• Specialization in niche areas of site design or project management, becoming a recognized expert.

• Opportunities to lead larger, more complex, or signature projects, enhancing professional visibility and impact.

• Potential involvement in business development, client acquisition, and strategic planning for the Site Design group.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for career advancement within a well-established engineering firm, appealing to professionals seeking long-term growth and opportunities to influence operational strategy.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Olsson offers flexible work arrangements, including remote, hybrid, and in-office options. This suggests a modern, adaptable work environment that prioritizes employee well-being and productivity.

Office Location(s): Multiple office locations in Missouri and Kansas (North Kansas City, St. Louis, Overland Park, Wichita), providing accessibility for hybrid employees and team collaboration hubs.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Opportunities for in-person collaboration in offices, supporting team synergy and knowledge sharing, balanced with the autonomy of remote work.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard CAD software (AutoCAD Civil 3D) and project management tools, supporting efficient design and workflow management.

• Team Interaction: Regular interaction with project teams, senior leadership, and clients, fostering a dynamic and engaging work experience.

Work Schedule: Standard working hours are implied (40 hours/week), with potential for flexibility to accommodate project demands and personal needs, particularly in hybrid or remote settings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on flexible work options is a significant draw for operations professionals who value work-life balance and autonomy. It indicates a progressive approach to workforce management.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and application to assess qualifications, experience, and fit with required skills.

• Technical Interview: Discussion focused on civil design principles, AutoCAD Civil 3D proficiency, project management methodologies, and QA/QC processes. Candidates may be asked about specific project experiences and technical challenges.

• Portfolio Review: Presentation and discussion of selected projects from the candidate's portfolio, highlighting their role, responsibilities, design solutions, and project outcomes. Emphasis on demonstrating leadership in quality and efficiency.

• Behavioral/Cultural Interview: Assessment of communication skills, teamwork, problem-solving approach, and alignment with Olsson's values (collaboration, ownership, community impact).

• Final Interview: Meeting with senior leadership to discuss role expectations, career growth, and final fit within the organization.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate 3-5 key projects that best demonstrate your leadership in civil site design, project management, and QA/QC.

• For each project, clearly articulate your specific role, the challenges faced, the design solutions implemented, and the quantifiable outcomes (e.g., efficiency gains, quality improvements, client satisfaction).

• Be prepared to discuss your process for quality assurance and how you ensure design accuracy and adherence to standards.

• Highlight your experience in mentoring junior staff and your approach to technical leadership.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss hypothetical scenarios related to project management challenges, technical design issues, or client disputes.

• Prepare examples of how you have driven efficiency or improved quality within a design process.

• Understand Olsson's core services and recent projects to demonstrate informed interest.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is structured to evaluate technical acumen, operational management skills, and cultural fit. A strong portfolio that showcases process management and quality improvements is crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• AutoCAD Civil 3D: The core software for civil design, drafting, and documentation. Proficiency is a mandatory requirement.

• Project Management Software: Likely utilized for task tracking, resource allocation, and project scheduling (specific software not listed, but common PM tools would be relevant).

• Collaboration Platforms: Tools such as Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for internal communication and team coordination.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Internal Reporting Tools: For tracking project progress, team performance, and QA/QC metrics.

• CAD-integrated reporting: Capabilities within Civil 3D for generating quantity take-offs and design reports.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM System: Potentially used for client management and relationship tracking, though not explicitly stated.

• Automation Tools: While not explicitly mentioned, candidates who can demonstrate experience in automating repetitive tasks within CAD or project workflows will be highly valued.

📝 Enhancement Note: Mastery of AutoCAD Civil 3D is paramount. Familiarity with project management and collaboration tools is expected for effective operations management in a distributed team environment.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Collaboration: Working effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders to achieve project goals.

• Ownership: Taking responsibility for project outcomes, quality, and team performance.

• Community Impact: A commitment to using talents to create positive, lasting effects on communities through well-designed infrastructure.

• Efficiency & Results: Focus on delivering high-quality work efficiently, meeting project objectives and client expectations.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively engaging with all disciplines involved in site development projects to ensure cohesive design and execution.

• Process Review & Feedback: Fostering an environment where processes are regularly reviewed, and constructive feedback is exchanged to drive continuous improvement.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of technical expertise and best practices across the team to elevate collective capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on collaboration, ownership, and community impact suggests a culture that is both professional and purpose-driven, appealing to operations professionals who seek meaningful work and a supportive team environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Diverse Project Demands: Balancing the technical requirements, timelines, and client expectations across multiple site design projects simultaneously.

• Ensuring Consistent Quality: Maintaining high standards of QA/QC across a distributed team and varied project complexities.

• Leading Remote/Hybrid Teams: Effectively managing, motivating, and coordinating team members who may not be co-located.

• Staying Current with Technology: Keeping abreast of advancements in CAD software, design technologies, and sustainable engineering practices.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Opportunities to deepen expertise in project management, QA/QC methodologies, and technical leadership.

• Industry Conferences & Certifications: Potential support for attending relevant industry events and obtaining professional certifications.

• Mentorship & Leadership Development: Access to mentorship from senior leaders and development programs focused on enhancing leadership and management capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents opportunities to hone leadership and operational management skills within a dynamic engineering environment, with clear pathways for professional development and career growth.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex site design project you managed. What were the key technical challenges, and how did you ensure its successful operational execution and quality?" (Focus on process, QA/QC, and team management)

• "How do you approach quality assurance and quality control in a design setting? Provide examples of processes you've implemented or improved." (Demonstrate operational rigor)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Olsson's commitment to 'improving the world around us' and our people-centric approach?" (Align your values with the company's)

• "How do you see your technical expertise and project management skills contributing to our Site Design group's operational success?" (Connect your skills to business outcomes)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure your portfolio presentation around key projects, clearly outlining the problem, your role, the solutions (design and process), and the results.

• For each project, emphasize:

  • Your management of the design process (planning, execution, QA/QC).
  • How you leveraged AutoCAD Civil 3D for efficiency and accuracy.
  • Any improvements you made to operational workflows or quality standards.
  • Your leadership in coordinating with project staff and stakeholders.

• Be prepared to answer detailed questions about your technical contributions and decision-making processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to discuss not just design outcomes but also the operational processes, quality controls, and leadership strategies employed to achieve those outcomes. Demonstrating a proactive approach to process improvement is key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on Greenhouse.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and any submitted portfolio materials to highlight your experience in civil design management, AutoCAD Civil 3D proficiency, project management, and QA/QC processes. Focus on achievements related to efficiency, quality, and team leadership.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your 10+ years of experience, your Associate Degree in Drafting, and specific achievements in managing medium-sized projects. Integrate keywords such as "Civil Design," "Site Design," "AutoCAD Civil 3D," "Project Management," "Quality Assurance," and "Technical Review."

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience with specific examples, focusing on operational aspects like process improvement, quality control, and team management. Prepare to discuss your portfolio and how you've driven efficiency and quality in past roles.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Olsson's website, core values, and recent projects. Understand their approach to client service, community impact, and employee development to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural alignment.

⚠️ 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.