Civil Design Technologist

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Civil Design Technologist

Company: CIMA+

Location: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Engineering & Construction Operations

Date Posted: 2026-08-20

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid (Minimum 3-4 days in-office per week)

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is a hybrid field and office-based position focused on the inspection, assessment, and testing of concrete and steel structures within CIMA+'s Energy and Resources Civil-Structural group.

• The position requires hands-on experience with structural inspection tools, non-destructive testing (NDT) methods, and detailed technical reporting to support rehabilitation and construction monitoring projects.

• Successful candidates will leverage their knowledge of structural behavior and deterioration mechanisms to contribute to a variety of industrial and infrastructure projects across British Columbia.

• This role offers a unique opportunity to develop expertise in structural condition assessments and material testing while working in a collaborative, employee-owned firm.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the original listing is for a "Civil Design Technologist," the detailed responsibilities and qualifications strongly indicate a focus on structural inspection and field assessment rather than pure design. The role is therefore categorized under Engineering & Construction Operations with an emphasis on the practical, on-site aspects of civil engineering.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive field inspections and condition assessments of concrete and steel structures, including retaining walls, manholes, industrial facilities, and underground infrastructure.

• Perform and assist with various non-destructive testing (NDT) and destructive testing methods for construction materials, such as concrete compressive strength testing, rebar location and cover measurement (using tools like GPR and cover meters), and corrosion assessment of reinforcing steel.

• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot specialized inspection equipment and tools essential for accurate structural assessments and material testing.

• Plan and execute field investigation programs, meticulously documenting sampling procedures, testing protocols, and data collection.

• Work safely and efficiently in confined spaces and at heights, strictly adhering to all relevant safety regulations and company policies.

• Accurately record, document, and interpret field data, compiling detailed inspection reports that include photographic evidence and key findings.

• Support the preparation of rehabilitation recommendations and technical reports under the guidance of senior engineers and project managers.

• Assist in the preparation of drawings and sketches using AutoCAD and/or Revit, translating inspection findings into visual project documentation.

• Estimate material quantities and contribute to cost evaluations for proposed repair and rehabilitation work.

• Monitor construction activities on-site, verifying compliance with project drawings, specifications, and all inspection requirements.

• Collaborate effectively with engineers, technicians, and other project disciplines, including structural, mechanical, and design teams, as well as architects.

• Liaise with clients, under supervision, to discuss project aspects, inspection findings, and proposed solutions.

• Travel extensively to project sites throughout British Columbia, often requiring full-day inspections and potentially overnight stays.

• Review construction progress and compliance with tender documents and project specifications.

• Provide mentorship and guidance to junior technicians and team members, fostering a culture of knowledge sharing and professional development.

• Adapt to flexible work schedules, including potential evenings, weekends, and shift work, to meet project demands and inspection timelines.

• Be available for on-call duties for urgent or emergency inspections as project needs arise.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary responsibilities are heavily weighted towards field operations, inspection, and testing, aligning with the "Civil Design Technologist" title but emphasizing the practical application of engineering technology in structural assessments and construction support. The role requires a hands-on approach and significant site presence.

ɽ Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Completion of a Civil Engineering Technology Diploma or a higher educational qualification in a related engineering field. Experience:

• Minimum of 2 years of relevant professional experience specifically in structural inspections, with a strong focus on concrete and steel structures.

• Demonstrated experience with concrete and steel behavior, including understanding common deterioration mechanisms and effective repair methodologies. Required Skills:

• Proficiency in conducting structural inspections and condition assessments of various civil infrastructure.

• Hands-on experience with non-destructive testing (NDT) methods and a strong understanding of their application in material evaluation.

• Working knowledge and practical application of inspection equipment such as rebound hammers, rebar locators, cover meters, and Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR).

• Familiarity with concrete sampling and destructive testing tools and procedures.

• Proficiency in using AutoCAD for drafting and sketching, and ideally Revit for BIM-related tasks.

• Competence in MS Office Suite, particularly Word, Excel, and Outlook, for reporting and data management.

• Strong technical reporting capabilities, with the ability to clearly articulate findings, observations, and recommendations in written form.

• Ability to perform basic technical calculations related to measurements, quantities, and field data interpretation.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, essential for technical reporting and interdisciplinary collaboration.

• Ability to work independently in field settings while also functioning effectively as part of a multidisciplinary project team.

• Strong self-motivation, excellent interpersonal skills, and the ability to prioritize multiple tasks efficiently.

• Commitment to providing exceptional client service.

• Highly organized with a flexible approach to work assignments and changing priorities.

• Demonstrated passion for the engineering profession and a results-driven work ethic.

• A valid driver's license with a clean driving record, enabling inclusion in CIMA+ driver's insurance.

• Must reside in the Greater Vancouver Area and be capable of mobilizing to project sites on short notice. Preferred Skills:

• Specific certifications or specialized training in concrete testing, NDT techniques, or structural inspection practices.

• Proven experience working in confined spaces and with fall protection systems.

• Knowledge of relevant industry codes and standards pertaining to structural inspection and materials testing (e.g., CSA, ASTM).

• Hands-on experience with Proceq testing equipment (e.g., Schmidt hammer, Profometer, Canin) for concrete condition assessments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills emphasize practical, hands-on experience in field inspections and testing, directly aligning with the core responsibilities. The inclusion of specific equipment like Proceq testing tools and software like AutoCAD/Revit highlights the technical demands of the role. The emphasis on a clean driving record and residency in the Greater Vancouver Area underscores the field-intensive nature of the position.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Case Studies in Structural Assessment: Showcase detailed examples of past structural inspection projects, highlighting the methodologies used, challenges encountered, and solutions implemented. Emphasize clear problem statements and actionable insights derived from inspections.

• Technical Reporting Samples: Provide examples of technical reports, condition assessments, and inspection summaries that demonstrate strong analytical skills, clear documentation of findings, and concise presentation of recommendations. Focus on clarity, accuracy, and adherence to industry standards.

• Field Data Documentation: Include evidence of how field data was collected, organized, and interpreted. This could involve annotated photographs, field notes, or data logs that illustrate the process of gathering information on-site.

• System Utilization Evidence: If possible, showcase projects where specific inspection tools (e.g., NDT equipment, AutoCAD) were utilized effectively to gather data or present findings. Highlight proficiency in relevant software and hardware.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Demonstrate an understanding of typical inspection and testing workflows, including planning, execution, data analysis, and reporting phases. Highlight any instances where processes were improved for efficiency or accuracy.

• Implementation & Automation: While this role is not heavily focused on automation, showcase any instances where digital tools or streamlined reporting methods were used to improve the efficiency of data capture or report generation.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Illustrate how inspection findings translate into actionable recommendations for rehabilitation or construction monitoring. Show an ability to interpret test results and relate them to structural integrity and performance requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a technologist role focused on field inspections, the portfolio should prioritize practical application and documentation. The emphasis is on demonstrating the ability to perform the core tasks, document findings accurately, and communicate them effectively through reports and visual aids, rather than high-level strategic process design.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• The expected annual salary for this position ranges between CAD $75,000 and CAD $83,160.

• This range is determined by the depth and breadth of a candidate's experience, their relevant training and skills, and the company's commitment to internal equity. The specific salary offered within this band will reflect the candidate's qualifications. Benefits:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage.

• Disability insurance to provide financial security.

• Paid sick time for personal health needs.

• Health spending account for additional health-related expenses.

• Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) insurance.

• Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) with a company match of up to 4%.

• Employee Stock Purchase Plan, offering ownership opportunities within the firm.

• Coverage for professional association and license fees.

• Generous vacation time, with a minimum of 15 days per year, adjustable based on CIMA+ policy and tenure. Working Hours:

• Standard working hours are 37.5 hours per week.

• The role may require flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and shift work, to accommodate project schedules and urgent inspection needs.

• Eligibility for overtime in accordance with CIMA+ policy.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is specific and falls within typical market rates for a Civil Engineering Technologist with 2-5 years of experience in Vancouver, BC, considering the specialized nature of structural inspections and NDT. The benefits package is comprehensive and aligns with industry standards for professional roles in Canada. The mention of overtime eligibility is important for a field-based role with variable hours.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering and Consulting Services (Energy & Resources, Civil-Structural focus). CIMA+ operates within the broader engineering and infrastructure development sector, with a specialized group dedicated to energy and resources projects, including industrial structures, underground systems, and hydraulic works.

Company Size: CIMA+ is a firm 100% owned by its employees, indicating a strong employee-centric culture and a focus on long-term commitment and shared success. While the exact number of employees is not specified in the input, the description suggests a significant, established firm with a national presence.

Founded: The founding date is not explicitly stated, but the company's description implies a mature organization with a well-established track record in the industry.

Team Structure:

• Operations Team Aspect 1: The role is part of the Energy and Resources Civil-Structural group, which focuses on engineering for industrial, underground, and hydraulic structures. This suggests a specialized team of engineers and technologists with expertise in these areas.

• Operations Team Aspect 2: The reporting structure involves working closely with clients and supporting senior engineers and project managers. There's also an expectation to mentor earlier-career team members, indicating a hierarchical structure with opportunities for guidance and leadership.

• Operations Team Aspect 3: Collaboration is key, with cross-functional interaction expected with structural, mechanical, and design disciplines, as well as architects. Client interaction, though supervised, is also a component.

Methodology:

• Operations Process 1: Data analysis and insights are central to the role, with a requirement to interpret field data, material testing results, and inspection findings to inform technical reports and rehabilitation recommendations.

• Operations Process 2: Workflow planning and optimization are implicitly required for executing field investigations and inspections efficiently and safely.

• Operations Process 3: While not a core focus, an understanding of how inspection findings feed into repair and rehabilitation strategies demonstrates an awareness of efficiency and problem-solving within the project lifecycle.

Company Website: www.cima.ca

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is highlighted as collaborative, entrepreneurial, and employee-owned, which are significant differentiators. The specific focus of the Civil-Structural group within Energy and Resources provides context for the types of projects and technical challenges the role will encounter. The emphasis on mentorship and client interaction suggests a professional and client-focused environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as an intermediate-level Civil Engineering Technologist, requiring 2+ years of specialized experience. It's a hands-on, field-oriented position that serves as a critical support function for senior engineering staff and project delivery. The role involves direct contribution to project execution through inspection, testing, and reporting.

Reporting Structure: The Civil Design Technologist will report to senior engineering staff or project managers within the Civil-Structural group. They are expected to work collaboratively with other technicians and engineers and will also be responsible for guiding and supporting junior team members.

Operations Impact: The role directly impacts project success by ensuring structural integrity, compliance with standards, and effective identification of issues. Accurate inspections and reports are crucial for making informed decisions regarding repairs, rehabilitation, and construction quality, ultimately contributing to project safety, longevity, and client satisfaction within the Energy and Resources sector.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Develop deep expertise in structural inspection techniques, NDT methods, and material testing. This can lead to specialization in specific types of structures or testing methodologies.

• Technical Expertise Development: Gain exposure to a wide range of industrial and infrastructure projects, enhancing knowledge of different structural systems, materials, and their performance characteristics.

• Leadership Potential: Opportunities to mentor junior staff can pave the way for roles with increased responsibility, such as Lead Technologist or Project Coordinator, overseeing field operations.

• Professional Development: CIMA+ offers benefits like coverage for association/license fees, encouraging continuous learning and professional accreditation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path for a technologist in this role typically involves deepening technical expertise in inspections and testing, potentially moving into project coordination or specialized technical roles. The employee-owned structure may also offer unique long-term career progression and engagement opportunities.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a hybrid role, requiring a minimum of three to four days per week in the Vancouver office. The office serves as a base for administrative tasks, report writing, planning, and team collaboration.

Office Location(s): The primary office location is 700–675 West Hastings Street, Vancouver, BC, V6B 1N2. This central location in Vancouver provides accessibility for commuting and local amenities.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The office environment is expected to foster collaboration among engineers, technologists, and project teams, facilitating knowledge sharing and project coordination.

• Operations Tools and Technology: Access to necessary office equipment, software (AutoCAD, MS Office), and potentially shared resources for report generation and data analysis.

• Operations Team Interaction: Regular opportunities to interact with colleagues, participate in team meetings, and receive guidance from senior staff.

• Field Work Integration: The role involves significant time spent on project sites across British Columbia, which can vary from urban infrastructure to industrial facilities. Field work may require working in diverse weather conditions, at heights, and in confined spaces.

Work Schedule: The standard work week is 37.5 hours. However, the nature of field inspections and construction monitoring often necessitates flexibility, including potential work on evenings, weekends, and shift work, as dictated by project timelines and client needs. Availability for on-call duties is also a requirement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role is a key aspect, balancing office-based work for reporting and planning with extensive field work. The description highlights the need for adaptability regarding work hours and locations, emphasizing the practical demands of a construction and inspection-focused role.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening & Application Review: Applications will be reviewed, with a focus on the alignment of experience and qualifications with the role's requirements. Candidates with strong technical backgrounds in structural inspections and NDT are prioritized.

• Technical Interview: Expect questions related to structural inspection techniques, material testing methodologies, common deterioration mechanisms, and the application of NDT tools. Be prepared to discuss your experience with AutoCAD and technical reporting.

• Portfolio Presentation: Candidates may be asked to present specific examples from their portfolio, demonstrating their ability to conduct thorough inspections, document findings accurately, and prepare professional technical reports. Focus on clear case studies of past projects.

• Behavioral & Situational Assessment: Questions will assess problem-solving skills, ability to work independently and in a team, client service orientation, and adaptability to challenging field conditions (e.g., working at heights, confined spaces).

• Final Interview: This may involve meeting with senior management or project leads to discuss career aspirations, cultural fit, and overall suitability for CIMA+'s team and values.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Field Experience: Prioritize examples that clearly illustrate your hands-on experience with structural inspections, condition assessments, and material testing. Use high-quality photographs where appropriate.

• Structure Case Studies: For each project example, clearly outline the objective, your role and responsibilities, the methodologies and tools used, the key findings, and the recommendations provided. Quantify impact or improvements where possible.

• Demonstrate Reporting Skills: Include samples of technical reports or excerpts that highlight your ability to communicate complex technical information clearly and concisely. Ensure they are well-organized and professional.

• Highlight Tool Proficiency: Explicitly mention and, if possible, visually represent your experience with specific tools and software mentioned in the job description, such as AutoCAD, Revit, rebound hammers, GPR, and Proceq equipment.

• Address Safety Compliance: If possible, include examples or discuss your approach to safety protocols, particularly concerning working at heights and in confined spaces.

Challenge Preparation:

• Technical Scenarios: Be prepared for hypothetical scenarios involving structural issues, testing challenges, or reporting dilemmas. Practice articulating your problem-solving approach logically.

• Data Interpretation: Practice interpreting sample data or inspection findings and explaining how you would translate them into actionable recommendations.

• Communication Practice: Rehearse explaining technical concepts and project details clearly and concisely, as if presenting to a client or a non-technical stakeholder.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is expected to be rigorous, with a strong emphasis on practical skills and the ability to document and communicate technical findings. A well-curated portfolio that directly addresses the core responsibilities and required skills will be crucial for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Inspection & Testing Equipment: Rebound hammers (e.g., Proceq Schmidt hammer), rebar locators/cover meters (e.g., Profometer), Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) for subsurface analysis, corrosion detection equipment, concrete sampling tools, and other specialized NDT and destructive testing apparatus.

• Measurement Tools: Calibrated measuring devices, laser scanners, and other instruments for precise on-site data collection.

• Field Data Recorders: Ruggedized tablets or specialized devices for real-time data capture and documentation in the field.

Analytics & Reporting:

• MS Office Suite: Proficiency in Word for report writing, Excel for data analysis and calculations, and Outlook for communication.

• Specialized Reporting Software: Potentially proprietary CIMA+ software or industry-standard platforms for compiling and managing inspection reports.

CRM & Automation:

• AutoCAD: Essential for preparing drawings, sketches, and technical illustrations based on inspection findings.

• Revit (Preferred): Experience with BIM software can be advantageous for more complex documentation and visualization tasks.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with CIMA+'s internal project management systems for task tracking and project coordination.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily skewed towards specialized field equipment and essential design/reporting software. Proficiency with specific NDT tools and AutoCAD is critical, with Revit being a valuable addition. The role requires comfort with both physical tools and digital documentation platforms.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Client Focus: A paramount value, emphasizing a commitment to delivering exceptional service and meeting client needs with integrity and professionalism. This translates to thoroughness in inspections and clear communication.

• Excellence & Quality: A drive for high-quality work in all aspects, from meticulous data collection and analysis to precise technical reporting and construction monitoring.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: CIMA+ is employee-owned, fostering a strong sense of shared responsibility and mutual support. This role requires effective collaboration with diverse teams and the willingness to mentor junior colleagues.

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: While rooted in established methodologies, there's an expectation to approach challenges with an open mind, seeking efficient and effective solutions.

• Integrity & Ethics: Fundamental values that guide all business practices, ensuring honesty, transparency, and ethical conduct in all interactions and project work.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The role demands close collaboration with engineers, designers, and other disciplines to ensure a holistic approach to project assessment and rehabilitation planning.

• Process Review & Feedback: An environment where constructive feedback is valued, encouraging a culture of continuous learning and process refinement within the team.

• Knowledge Sharing: As an employee-owned firm, there's an emphasis on sharing expertise and best practices, particularly through mentorship and team discussions, to elevate the collective skill level.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on client service, excellence, and collaboration, rooted in an employee-owned structure, defines the core of CIMA+'s culture. Operations professionals in this role are expected to embody these values in their daily work, from site interactions to report generation.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Fieldwork Demands: Adapting to varied site conditions, including working at heights, in confined spaces, and potentially in challenging weather, requires resilience and strict adherence to safety protocols.

• Data Interpretation Complexity: Accurately interpreting diverse material test results and identifying subtle signs of structural distress demands keen observation and analytical skills.

• Balancing Field and Office Work: Effectively managing time between on-site inspections across BC and office-based reporting and planning requires strong organizational and time management skills.

• Evolving Standards & Technology: Staying current with new inspection techniques, material testing methods, and relevant codes and standards necessitates continuous learning.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Training: Opportunities to gain advanced certifications in NDT methods, confined space entry, fall protection, and specific material testing techniques.

• Industry Exposure: Working on a diverse portfolio of energy and resources projects provides broad exposure to different structural types and engineering challenges.

• Mentorship Programs: Formal or informal mentorship from experienced engineers and technologists can foster professional growth and career development.

• Professional Association Support: Benefit from coverage of association and license fees, supporting ongoing professional development and networking within the engineering community.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a field-heavy technologist role, emphasizing safety, technical accuracy, and adaptability. The growth opportunities are geared towards deepening specialized technical expertise and progressing within the engineering consulting field, leveraging the company's commitment to employee development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex structural inspection you conducted. What were the key challenges, how did you approach them, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on methodology, problem-solving, and results.)

• "How do you ensure accuracy and objectivity when performing material testing and documenting findings?" (Highlight attention to detail, adherence to standards, and data integrity.)

• "Walk me through your process for preparing a technical inspection report, from initial site visit to final submission." (Demonstrate structured approach, reporting tools, and communication clarity.)

• "How do you manage your time and priorities when juggling multiple site inspections across different locations with varying deadlines?" (Showcase organizational skills, prioritization techniques, and adaptability.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about CIMA+ and specifically this Civil Design Technologist role within our Energy and Resources group?" (Research CIMA+'s projects, values, and employee-ownership model.)

• "How do you approach collaboration with engineers, clients, and other disciplines on a project?" (Emphasize teamwork, communication, and client-service orientation.)

• "Describe a time you had to work in a challenging environment (e.g., at heights, confined space). How did you ensure safety and maintain productivity?" (Showcase safety consciousness and resilience.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select Representative Projects: Choose 2-3 projects that best showcase your core skills in structural inspection, NDT, and technical reporting.

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your role, the methodology used, key findings, and the impact of your work. Use visuals (photos, diagrams) where possible.

• Highlight Technical Skills: Explicitly discuss your experience with specific tools and software mentioned in the job description (AutoCAD, NDT equipment, etc.).

• Focus on Action and Results: Emphasize what you did and the results of your actions, rather than just listing responsibilities.

• Be Prepared for Questions: Anticipate questions about your decision-making process, challenges encountered, and how you would handle similar situations in the future.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating practical field experience, technical knowledge of structural assessments, and a commitment to safety and client service. The portfolio is a critical tool for showcasing these capabilities.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Civil Design Technologist position at CIMA+:

• Submit your application through the CIMA+ careers portal, referencing Requisition REF2933A.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight specific experience in structural inspections, concrete and steel assessments, NDT methods, and AutoCAD. Include a link to your online portfolio or mention its availability upon request.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly lists your Civil Engineering Technology Diploma, years of relevant experience, and proficiency with inspection equipment and software. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., number of inspections completed, types of structures assessed).

• Interview Preparation: Thoroughly review the job description and company information. Practice answering common interview questions related to your technical skills, field experience, and problem-solving abilities. Prepare specific examples from your past projects.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with CIMA+'s projects, values, and its employee-owned structure. Understand their focus in the Energy and Resources sector to articulate your interest and how you align with their culture and operational approach.

⚠️ 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.