Engineering Design Manager - Brea, CA

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Engineering Design Manager

Company: Bowman Consulting Group, Ltd.

Location: Brea, CA, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Engineering Management / Civil Engineering Operations

Date Posted: October 09, 2025

Experience Level: 8+ Years (with 3+ years in Assistant Project Management)

Remote Status: Hybrid (with potential for remote/hybrid arrangements)

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage complex civil engineering design projects, ensuring technical excellence and adherence to project scope, schedule, and budget.

• Drive project profitability and growth through effective client management, business development initiatives, and operational efficiency.

• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to a team of design engineers, fostering a culture of quality, innovation, and professional development.

• Oversee the preparation of design plans, specifications, cost estimates, and reports, utilizing advanced engineering software and methodologies.

• Collaborate cross-functionally with internal departments, clients, and external stakeholders to ensure seamless project execution and client satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role bridges technical engineering expertise with project and people management, requiring a strong understanding of both design principles and operational execution within the civil engineering consulting sector. The emphasis on client relationships, business development, and profitability indicates a strategic operational component beyond pure technical design.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Project Leadership & Oversight:

  • Receive broad guidance from senior management on key objectives, critical issues, and policy matters, then translate into actionable plans for team execution.
  • Oversee the complete project lifecycle, from scope finalization and bid summarization to budget preparation, cost estimation, and milestone achievement.
  • Manage multiple complex projects concurrently, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to budgetary constraints.
  • Conduct thorough reviews of design deliverables, including plans, specifications, estimates, and reports, to ensure quality, accuracy, and compliance with industry standards.

• Team Management & Mentorship:

  • Provide technical guidance, mentorship, and performance feedback to design engineers and project staff.
  • Review work produced by staff for quality assurance and compliance with firm standards.
  • Foster a collaborative team environment that encourages innovation, problem-solving, and continuous learning.

• Client & Business Development:

  • Assist in marketing the firm’s capabilities to secure new clients and cultivate strong relationships with existing clientele.
  • Serve as a primary point of contact for clients, resolving technical requirements, project inquiries, and billing issues.
  • Participate in marketing presentations and meetings, contributing to business development efforts and securing repeat business.
  • Drive project profitability by monitoring job cost sheets, managing billings, and actively participating in accounts receivable collection efforts.

• Technical Design & Execution:

  • Perform day-to-day project management tasks, ensuring project milestones are met efficiently.
  • Prepare and direct the preparation of comprehensive designs, specifications, plans, estimates, and reports.
  • Utilize AutoCAD Civil 3D for detailed design plans, including TINs, 3D surfaces, grading, drainage, water, sewer, and roadway infrastructure.
  • Lead the management of NPDES permits for municipal clients, ensuring compliance with stormwater regulations.
  • Provide technical assistance for design problem resolution, including field investigations and detailed design work.

• Operational & Financial Management:

  • Review job cost sheets and prepare monthly billings, ensuring projects remain within budget.

  • Monitor and manage work-in-process, billings, and outstanding accounts receivable.

  • Focus on improving return on investment for projects and contribute to the financial health of the firm.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on technical engineering execution and core operational management, including financial oversight, client relationship management, and business development. The explicit mention of "Do the Work" indicates an expectation for hands-on involvement alongside leadership duties.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• A minimum of eight (8+) years of experience in civil engineering.

• This must include at least three (3) years of experience in an assistant project management capacity.

Required Skills:

• Professional Licensure: Registered Professional Engineer (PE) in California or ability to obtain through reciprocity.

• Technical Proficiency: Expert-level proficiency in AutoCAD Civil 3D for complex design tasks.

• Design Expertise: Solid understanding and application of grading and drainage design, water, sewer, and roadway infrastructure design.

• Stormwater Management: Experience with Storm Drain Modeling, Rational Method Hydrologic Calculations, Open Channel & Detention Basin Modeling and Design, and NPDES permit management.

• Project Management: Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects, meet time and budget milestones, and oversee project personnel.

• Client Relations: Outstanding client management skills with a proven ability to resolve project-specific issues and maintain strong relationships.

• Financial Acumen: Basic understanding of financial reports and metrics, with a focus on driving profitability and improving ROI.

• Communication: Effective verbal and written communication skills for client interactions, internal reporting, and team collaboration.

• Problem-Solving: A proactive, problem-solving attitude with the ability to conduct field investigations and resolve design challenges.

Preferred Skills:

• Stormwater Modeling: Experience with HEC-RAS modeling and CLOMR/LOMR applications and processing.

• Permitting: Certified as a Qualified Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) Developer (QSD).

• Software Proficiency: Familiarity with AES, CIVILD, WSPGW, PCSWMM, StormCAD, HEC-HMS, HEC-RAS.

• Regulatory Research: Experience researching compliance matters, regulations, and standards.

• Business Development: Strong marketing and business development skills, with a proven track record of securing new clients.

• Cross-Office Collaboration: Ability to collaborate and team effectively across multiple office locations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a PE license is critical for this role. The preferred skills in specific modeling software and certifications like QSD indicate a desire for specialized expertise that can directly contribute to project success and client service in stormwater and land development.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Case Studies: Showcase at least 2-3 complex civil engineering projects managed, detailing scope, challenges, solutions, and outcomes. Prioritize projects involving land development, municipal infrastructure, or significant stormwater management components.

• Design Deliverables: Include redacted examples of key design documents such as grading plans, drainage reports, utility designs, and specification excerpts. Highlight your direct contribution and review role.

• Project Management Documentation: Present evidence of project financial management, such as sample budget summaries, cost tracking reports, or billing summaries (with sensitive data anonymized). Demonstrate your ability to manage projects within scope, schedule, and budget.

• Client Communication Examples: Provide anonymized examples of client correspondence that showcase your ability to address technical queries, resolve issues, or present project updates effectively.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Be prepared to discuss how you have designed or optimized engineering design workflows, particularly those involving AutoCAD Civil 3D, stormwater modeling, or permitting processes.

• Quality Assurance & Review: Demonstrate your approach to ensuring the quality and accuracy of engineering designs and project deliverables through structured review processes.

• Project Lifecycle Management: Articulate your understanding and application of project management methodologies for civil engineering projects, from initial client engagement and scope definition to final deliverable submission and billing.

• Regulatory Compliance Processes: Be ready to explain your process for researching, understanding, and ensuring compliance with municipal codes, stormwater regulations (e.g., NPDES), and other relevant standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare a portfolio that vividly illustrates their project management capabilities, technical design proficiency, and operational acumen in managing civil engineering projects from conception to completion, with a strong emphasis on demonstrable results and adherence to process.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $120,000 - $160,000 per year

Benefits:

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance.

• Retirement: 401(k) retirement savings plan with a company match.

• Time Off: Generous paid time off, sick leave, and paid holidays.

• Professional Development: Tuition reimbursement and dedicated professional development support.

• Financial Incentives: Discretionary bonuses and other performance-based incentives.

• Employee Support: Employee Assistance Program (EAP), wellness initiatives, and employee discounts.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week (standard full-time).

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is competitive for an Engineering Design Manager role with the specified experience and responsibilities in the Brea, CA area. The comprehensive benefits package supports employee well-being and professional growth, aligning with industry standards for engineering consulting firms. The mention of potential remote or hybrid arrangements suggests some flexibility, though the primary location is Brea, CA.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering, Consulting, and Design Services. Bowman Consulting Group operates within the civil engineering and infrastructure development sector, serving a diverse range of clients including municipal, commercial, and residential entities.

Company Size: Bowman Consulting Group is a mid-to-large-sized firm, indicated by its extensive service offerings and multiple locations. This size suggests a structured environment with opportunities for career advancement and cross-functional collaboration, while still maintaining a degree of personal connection.

Founded: While the founding date is not explicitly provided, Bowman Consulting Group has established a significant presence, implying a history of sustained growth and expertise in the engineering and consulting field.

Team Structure:

• Departmental Specialization: The engineering team is likely structured by discipline (e.g., Civil, Structural, Environmental) and potentially by service area (e.g., Land Development, Municipal Infrastructure, Transportation).

• Project-Based Teams: Project teams are typically assembled based on specific client needs and project requirements, bringing together engineers, designers, project managers, and support staff.

• Reporting Hierarchy: This role reports to senior management (e.g., Principal Engineer, Director of Engineering) and will directly manage a team of design engineers and potentially project engineers. Cross-functional collaboration is expected with business development, marketing, and administrative departments.

Methodology:

• Client-Centric Approach: Emphasis on understanding and meeting client needs, fostering long-term relationships.

• Quality & Compliance Driven: Commitment to delivering high-quality, compliant engineering solutions that meet all regulatory and industry standards.

• Data-Informed Decision Making: Utilizing engineering analysis, modeling, and project data to inform design choices, project planning, and financial management.

• Collaborative Problem Solving: Encouraging teamwork and open communication to tackle complex engineering challenges and optimize project execution.

• Continuous Improvement: Fostering an environment where processes, skills, and service offerings are continually evaluated and refined.

Company Website: https://careers.bowman.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Bowman Consulting Group appears to value professional growth, client satisfaction, and a collaborative work environment. The company's industry position suggests a need for robust operational efficiency and strong project management to deliver successful outcomes.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a management-level position within the engineering operations domain. It requires a blend of technical expertise, project leadership, and business acumen. The role is responsible for the successful execution and profitability of engineering design projects, overseeing both technical deliverables and team performance.

Reporting Structure: The Engineering Design Manager reports to senior leadership within the engineering or operations division. They will directly manage a team of civil engineers and design staff, collaborating closely with business development, marketing, and other operational support functions.

Operations Impact: The Engineering Design Manager has a direct impact on the firm's revenue and profitability through effective project management, client retention, and business development contributions. Their leadership shapes the quality of deliverables, client satisfaction, and the overall efficiency of the design process, which are critical to the company's reputation and financial success.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Expansion: Potential to advance into roles such as Director of Engineering, Principal Engineer, or a senior leadership position overseeing multiple service lines or geographic regions.

• Specialized Expertise: Opportunities to deepen expertise in niche areas like advanced stormwater management, complex land development, or specific permitting processes, becoming a recognized subject matter expert.

• Business Development Focus: Transitioning into a more client-facing business development role, leveraging a strong technical background to win new projects.

• Operational Strategy: Contributing to the development and refinement of the firm's engineering processes, technology adoption, and operational strategies.

• Mentorship & Training: Developing leadership and training skills by mentoring junior staff and contributing to internal training programs.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for growth within technical management and business development. The emphasis on profitability and client relationships suggests that individuals who excel in these areas will be well-positioned for advancement.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Primarily an indoor professional office environment located at 3060 Saturn St, Suite 250, Brea, CA 92821. The description mentions potential for bright/dim light, noise, fumes, odors, and traffic, which are typical environmental factors in office settings.

Office Location(s): The primary office is in Brea, California. The company also has multiple locations, suggesting opportunities for collaboration or potential future internal transfers, though the role is based in Brea. The office environment is described as professional and supportive.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: The office environment is expected to support collaboration among team members, facilitating discussions and problem-solving.

• Technical Resources: Access to essential engineering software (AutoCAD Civil 3D, etc.), computer equipment, and other standard office technologies will be available.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular interaction with design engineers, project managers, and other professionals within the engineering department and across other functional areas.

• Flexibility: While primarily office-based, the role may offer hybrid work arrangements, allowing for a balance between in-office collaboration and remote work.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week, typical for a full-time professional role. Flexibility may be available depending on project demands and approved hybrid arrangements, but core business hours will likely be expected for team collaboration and client responsiveness.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment combines a professional office setting with the potential for field work and hybrid arrangements. The emphasis on collaboration and access to technology is crucial for effective project execution in a consulting firm.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess qualifications against the job requirements, with particular attention to PE licensure and years of relevant experience.

• Technical Interview: Discussion focused on your civil engineering expertise, design methodologies, and proficiency with key software like AutoCAD Civil 3D. Expect questions on grading, drainage, stormwater management, and municipal standards.

• Project Management & Operations Interview: Evaluation of your project management skills, financial oversight capabilities, client management approach, and business development potential. You may be asked to discuss past projects and your role in their success.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where you will present selected projects from your portfolio, explaining your contributions, problem-solving strategies, and demonstrated impact on project outcomes and profitability.

• Behavioral & Cultural Fit Interview: Assessment of your leadership style, team collaboration, communication skills, and alignment with Bowman Consulting Group's values and culture.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-4 high-impact projects that best showcase your experience in land development, municipal engineering, and stormwater management.

• Quantify Achievements: For each project, clearly articulate your specific contributions and quantify the results where possible (e.g., project budget managed, cost savings achieved, successful permit acquisition, client satisfaction feedback).

• Highlight Problem-Solving: Detail the technical or operational challenges faced and explain your strategic approach to overcoming them.

• Demonstrate Operational Acumen: Be prepared to discuss the financial aspects of your projects, including budgeting, cost control, and billing management.

• Professional Presentation: Ensure your presentation is well-organized, visually clear, and professionally delivered. Practice your talking points to ensure a smooth and confident presentation.

Challenge Preparation:

• Case Study Analysis: Be ready for a potential case study that requires you to analyze a project scenario, identify issues, and propose solutions encompassing technical design, project management, and client communication.

• Technical Problem-Solving: Prepare to address hypothetical technical challenges related to grading, drainage, or utility design.

• Operational Scenario: Anticipate questions about managing project budgets, resolving client disputes, or motivating a project team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is rigorous, emphasizing both technical competence and operational leadership. A well-prepared portfolio demonstrating tangible achievements and a clear understanding of project management and business development is crucial for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: AutoCAD Civil 3D (essential and extensive use expected for design, TINs, 3D surfaces, grading, drainage, roadways, utilities).

• Stormwater Modeling Software: HEC-RAS, HEC-HMS, StormCAD, PCSWMM, WSPGW (proficiency or familiarity is highly preferred).

• Project Management Software: Microsoft Office Suite, specifically MS Project for scheduling and tracking.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Financial Tracking: Experience with job cost sheets, monthly billings, and accounts receivable management.

• Data Analysis: Ability to interpret financial reports and project metrics to drive profitability and ROI.

CRM & Automation:

• Client Relationship Management: While not explicitly specified, a strong understanding of client interaction management is key. Familiarity with CRM principles would be beneficial.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Proficient use of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook for communication, documentation, and reporting.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in AutoCAD Civil 3D is non-negotiable. Experience with specialized stormwater modeling software is a significant advantage, underscoring the importance of this technical area for the role and the company's service offerings.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Quality & Excellence: A commitment to delivering high-quality engineering designs and project outcomes that exceed client expectations and uphold professional standards.

• Client Focus: Prioritizing client needs and satisfaction through excellent communication, responsiveness, and reliable service delivery.

• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding ethical conduct, transparency, and a high level of professionalism in all interactions and project work.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive environment where team members work together effectively, share knowledge, and contribute to collective success.

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Encouraging new ideas, efficient processes, and ongoing skill development to adapt to industry changes and enhance service offerings.

• Profitability & Growth: A drive to manage projects efficiently, contribute to business development, and ensure the financial health and growth of the firm.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Working closely with marketing, business development, HR, and finance teams to ensure seamless project execution and company operations.

• Inter-Office Synergy: Ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues across different Bowman Consulting Group office locations, sharing expertise and resources.

• Open Communication: Encouraging direct and transparent communication channels for problem-solving, feedback, and knowledge sharing.

• Mentorship and Support: A culture where experienced professionals mentor junior staff, fostering skill development and career progression.

📝 Enhancement Note: Bowman Consulting Group emphasizes a balanced approach, valuing both technical excellence and strong interpersonal skills. The culture appears to be one of collaboration, client dedication, and a drive for continuous improvement and growth.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Projects: Effectively managing the demands of several complex engineering projects simultaneously, each with unique technical requirements, client expectations, and deadlines.

• Client Management: Navigating diverse client personalities and expectations, resolving potential conflicts or misunderstandings, and ensuring consistent client satisfaction.

• Technical Problem-Solving: Addressing unforeseen design challenges that arise during project execution, requiring innovative solutions and potentially field investigations.

• Team Motivation & Development: Leading and motivating a team of engineers and designers, ensuring high performance, and supporting their professional growth while meeting project demands.

• Financial Management: Maintaining project profitability by accurately estimating costs, controlling expenditures, and managing billing and receivables effectively.

• Regulatory Landscape: Staying current with evolving municipal codes, stormwater regulations, and environmental standards, ensuring all designs remain compliant.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specialized areas of civil engineering, stormwater modeling, or permitting through internal or external training programs.

• Leadership Development: Access to leadership training, mentorship, and opportunities to hone management and strategic planning skills.

• Business Acumen Enhancement: Learning more about financial management, business development strategies, and client acquisition through practical experience and potential workshops.

• Industry Conferences & Networking: Participation in industry events to stay abreast of the latest trends, technologies, and network with peers and potential clients.

• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Gaining exposure to other engineering disciplines within Bowman Consulting Group to broaden understanding of integrated project delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant opportunities for professional growth by tackling complex challenges in project management, technical leadership, and client relations. The company's support for professional development is a key factor in leveraging these challenges into career advancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Operations Strategy: "Describe a time you implemented a process improvement in an engineering design workflow. What was the outcome and what metrics did you use to measure success?" (Focus on efficiency, cost savings, quality improvement).

• Collaboration & Stakeholder Management: "How do you ensure effective communication and collaboration between your design team, clients, and other stakeholders (e.g., municipal reviewers, subcontractors)?" Prepare an example where you managed a difficult stakeholder.

• Problem-Solving: "Walk me through a complex technical design challenge you faced on a civil engineering project. What was your approach to solving it, and what was the final solution?" Be ready to draw on your portfolio examples.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Company Operations: "Based on your understanding of Bowman Consulting Group, what do you see as the biggest operational opportunities or challenges for an Engineering Design Manager here?" Demonstrate research into the company's services and market position.

• Team Dynamics: "Describe your leadership style and how you foster a collaborative and high-performing team environment." Be ready to discuss your approach to mentorship and performance management.

• Impact Measurement: "How would you measure the success of your projects and your contribution to the firm's profitability and growth?" Discuss key performance indicators (KPIs) relevant to engineering operations.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, follow a clear structure: Project Overview/Challenge -> Your Role & Actions -> Solution & Design -> Results (Technical, Financial, Client Satisfaction).

• Quantify Impact: Use specific numbers to demonstrate your achievements (e.g., "Managed a $5M project budget," "Reduced design review time by 15%," "Secured permits within 6 months").

• Visualize Data: Use charts, graphs, or simple diagrams to illustrate complex designs or financial performance where appropriate.

• Focus on Operations: Emphasize your role in project management, cost control, client satisfaction, and business development aspects of the projects.

• Anticipate Questions: Prepare for in-depth questions about your design decisions, project management challenges, and financial oversight.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare to articulate not only your technical expertise but also your strategic approach to project management, team leadership, and business development. Your portfolio should serve as tangible proof of your capabilities in these operational areas.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Engineering Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the Bowman Consulting Group careers portal via the provided URL.

• Portfolio Customization: Curate your professional portfolio to prominently feature civil engineering design and project management achievements, with a strong emphasis on land development, municipal projects, and stormwater management solutions. Ensure examples of financial oversight and client communication are included.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight keywords related to civil engineering, project management, leadership, AutoCAD Civil 3D, stormwater modeling, and business development. Quantify achievements and responsibilities where possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions. Prepare specific examples from your portfolio for technical and operational discussions. Research Bowman Consulting Group's recent projects and company values.

• Company Research: Gain a thorough understanding of Bowman Consulting Group's services, industry position, and client base. Familiarize yourself with their approach to engineering and client relations to better align your responses with their operational philosophy.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description provides a comprehensive overview based on the provided data and industry standards. Specific details regarding responsibilities, qualifications, and the interview process should be confirmed directly with Bowman Consulting Group during the application and interview stages.