Land Development Engineer - Lead Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Land Development Engineer - Lead Designer

Company: Trilon Group (Rinker Design Associates, LLC - RDA)

Location: Manassas, VA

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Land Development Engineering / Site-Civil Design

Date Posted: 2026-02-06T16:58:29

Experience Level: 4-8 Years (Mid-Senior Level)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the design and execution of complex land development projects, focusing on site-civil engineering aspects.

• Drive project success through effective collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and stakeholders.

• Utilize advanced design software (AutoCAD Civil 3D) to produce high-quality technical documents and ensure regulatory compliance.

• Contribute to project management, including cost estimation, scheduling, and resource allocation, to ensure project profitability and timely delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a Lead Designer, implying a significant level of technical expertise and the ability to guide junior engineers. The "Land Development Engineer - Lead Designer" title, combined with responsibilities for technical document production and project management assistance, suggests a focus on the technical execution and design oversight of site-civil projects. The company's specialization in civil engineering for public and private clients in Virginia further contextualizes the role's scope.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Collaborate effectively with internal multidisciplinary teams (e.g., transportation, survey) and external stakeholders (clients, regulatory agencies) throughout the project lifecycle, from initial concept and feasibility studies through to construction administration.

• Design and prepare comprehensive technical documents, including grading plans, stormwater management (SWM/BMP) designs, utility infrastructure (water and sanitary sewer systems), and erosion and sediment control (E&S) plans, utilizing AutoCAD Civil 3D software.

• Ensure all designs strictly adhere to local zoning ordinances, facility design standards, and state/federal environmental regulations, proactively identifying and resolving compliance issues.

• Assist in key project management functions, such as developing detailed cost estimations, creating project schedules, managing resource allocation, and tracking project progress against defined milestones.

• Provide technical guidance, mentorship, and support to junior engineers and designers, fostering a culture of continuous learning and technical excellence within the team.

• Conduct site investigations and assessments to gather necessary data for design development and to identify potential challenges or opportunities.

• Review and approve design calculations, drawings, and specifications to ensure accuracy, completeness, and adherence to project requirements and company standards.

• Support business development efforts by contributing to proposal writing, client presentations, and maintaining strong client relationships.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities emphasize a blend of technical design leadership and project support. The mention of "Legislative Applications and Site Plans" suggests involvement in the permitting and approval process, which is critical for land development projects. The explicit listing of SWM/BMP, Water and Sanitary Sewer design, and E&S control measures highlights the technical depth required.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• 4-8 years of progressive experience specifically in Land Development or Site-Civil engineering.

Required Skills:

• Professional Engineer (PE) License: Must hold a PE license in Virginia or be an Engineer-In-Training (EIT) with a confirmed commitment and plan to obtain a PE license in Virginia within one year of employment.

• AutoCAD Civil 3D Proficiency: Expert-level proficiency in AutoCAD Civil 3D for site design, grading, utility layout, and plan production.

• Site-Civil Design Expertise: Comprehensive understanding and practical application of grading, stormwater management (SWM/BMP), water distribution, sanitary sewer systems, and erosion and sediment control principles.

• Regulatory Compliance: Strong working knowledge of local (Northern Virginia) zoning ordinances, facility design standards, permitting processes, and state environmental criteria (e.g., DEQ guidelines).

• Analytical & Problem-Solving: Proven ability to analyze complex site challenges, develop innovative solutions, and perform detailed design calculations.

• Communication & Teamwork: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with internal teams, clients, and regulatory bodies.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with other relevant design software (e.g., MicroStation, HEC-RAS, HydroCAD).

• Familiarity with GIS (Geographic Information System) applications for site analysis and design.

• Experience in construction administration and site observation.

• Demonstrated ability to mentor and lead junior engineering staff.

• Experience in preparing proposals and contributing to business development efforts.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a PE license or a clear path to obtaining one within a year is a critical qualification for a Lead Designer role, indicating the company's need for licensed professionals who can stamp drawings and take ultimate responsibility for designs. Proficiency in AutoCAD Civil 3D is paramount, as it's the primary tool for site-civil design.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Project Examples: Showcase a minimum of 3-5 significant land development projects where you played a lead or key design role. For each project, clearly articulate your specific contributions.

• Technical Deliverables: Include samples of detailed site plans, grading plans, stormwater management reports and calculations, utility design plans, and erosion and sediment control plans. Highlight the complexity and scale of these documents.

• Problem-Solving Case Studies: Present 1-2 case studies demonstrating how you tackled challenging site conditions or regulatory hurdles, detailing your analytical process, design solutions, and the positive outcomes achieved (e.g., cost savings, improved efficiency, successful permitting).

• Software Proficiency Showcase: Briefly describe your experience with AutoCAD Civil 3D and any other relevant design or analysis software, potentially including visual examples of your work within these platforms.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Demonstration: Be prepared to discuss your typical design workflow from project initiation to final construction documentation, emphasizing your approach to quality control and interdisciplinary coordination.

• Regulatory Navigation: Describe your process for understanding and applying local zoning ordinances, design standards, and permitting requirements for land development projects.

• Stormwater Management Strategies: Detail your methodology for designing effective and compliant stormwater management systems, including the selection and integration of Best Management Practices (BMPs).

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Lead Designer role, the portfolio should demonstrate not just technical capability but also leadership and problem-solving acumen. The emphasis should be on the complexity of projects handled, the clarity of technical documentation produced, and the ability to navigate regulatory landscapes effectively.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

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

• Retirement Savings: 401K Retirement Plan with Roth contribution options, encouraging long-term financial planning.

• Financial Wellness: Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) for tax-advantaged healthcare and dependent care expenses.

• Income Protection: Life, Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D), short-term disability, and long-term disability insurance to provide financial security.

• Work-Life Balance: Generous Paid Time Off (PTO), 8 federal holidays, and an additional floating holiday.

• Family Support: Parental Leave policy to support new parents.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for continued learning and skill enhancement within a supportive team culture.

• Sign-on Bonus: $10,000 bonus offered to new hires, demonstrating a strong commitment to attracting top talent.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work week, typically 40 hours per week, with potential for overtime depending on project demands. The role is on-site, requiring consistent presence in the Manassas, VA office.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on industry benchmarks for Civil Engineers with PE licenses in the Northern Virginia region, considering the 4-8 years of experience specified. The sign-on bonus is a significant incentive that should be factored into total compensation considerations.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Civil Engineering, Land Development, Infrastructure Design. The company operates within the construction and engineering services sector, serving public and private clients in Virginia.

Company Size: Trilon Group operates as a multi-discipline engineering firm. While the specific size of the Manassas office or the broader Trilon Group isn't detailed, it's implied to be substantial enough to handle diverse projects and employ various engineering disciplines. RDA (Rinker Design Associates, LLC) is a key part of this group.

Founded: Rinker Design Associates, LLC (RDA) is part of Trilon Group. RDA's history and founding date aren't specified, but Trilon Group's broader presence suggests a well-established entity.

Team Structure:

• The Civil/Municipal department likely consists of engineers, designers, and technicians specializing in land development, transportation, and municipal infrastructure.

• The Lead Designer will report to a Senior Project Manager or Department Head, with direct oversight and mentorship responsibilities for junior engineers and EITs.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasis on using site data, environmental assessments, and client requirements to inform design decisions.

• Collaborative Problem-Solving: A culture that encourages teamwork and open communication to tackle complex engineering challenges.

• Client-Centric Approach: Focus on delivering innovative, high-quality solutions tailored to client needs and project objectives.

• Technology Integration: Utilization of advanced software like AutoCAD Civil 3D to enhance design accuracy, efficiency, and visualization.

Company Website: https://www.trilongroup.com/ and https://www.rdacivil.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding RDA as part of Trilon Group is important. The company's focus on innovation and client-centricity, combined with its Virginia-based operations, suggests a strong regional presence and commitment to local development standards.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is a mid-to-senior level position, specifically a "Lead Designer." It signifies a transition from individual contributor to a technical leadership role, where one is responsible for the technical integrity of designs and the guidance of junior staff. It's a crucial step towards becoming a Project Engineer or Project Manager.

Reporting Structure: The Lead Designer will likely report to a Senior Project Manager or a Civil/Municipal Department Manager. They will have direct reporting and mentorship relationships with EITs and junior engineers working on their assigned projects.

Operations Impact: The Lead Designer directly impacts project success by ensuring designs are technically sound, compliant with regulations, cost-effective, and constructible. Their work is foundational to the successful execution of land development projects, influencing client satisfaction, project profitability, and the company's reputation for quality engineering.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas like advanced stormwater management, complex grading, or urban infill development.

• Project Management Track: Transition into a Project Manager role, taking on greater responsibility for client management, financial oversight, and overall project delivery.

• Leadership Development: Advance to a Senior Lead Designer, Principal Engineer, or Department Manager, leading larger teams and strategic initiatives.

• Professional Development: Opportunities to attend industry conferences, workshops, and pursue further certifications to stay current with engineering best practices and technological advancements.

• Mentorship: Gain experience in mentoring and developing junior engineers, enhancing leadership and team-building skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Lead Designer" title implies a clear career trajectory. Candidates should view this as a stepping stone to greater project responsibility and potentially management roles, with opportunities to hone both technical and leadership skills.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based on-site in Manassas, VA. This suggests a traditional office environment with dedicated workspaces for engineers and designers.

Office Location(s): 11100 Endeavor Ct, Manassas, VA 20109. This location is within Prince William County, Virginia, serving the Northern Virginia region.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Atmosphere: The job description emphasizes collaboration, suggesting an open office layout or designated meeting areas conducive to team discussions and problem-solving.

• Technology-Rich Environment: Expect access to high-performance workstations equipped with industry-standard design software (AutoCAD Civil 3D) and other necessary engineering tools.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular interaction with fellow engineers, designers, project managers, and support staff, fostering a strong team dynamic.

• Professional Settings: Access to meeting rooms for client presentations, project reviews, and internal team meetings.

Work Schedule: The role is full-time, typically 40 hours per week. While standard business hours are expected, flexibility may be available, but the on-site nature implies regular office attendance. Project deadlines might occasionally require working beyond standard hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is key. Candidates should be prepared for a traditional office setting where in-person collaboration and direct team interaction are prioritized. The Manassas location serves the dynamic Northern Virginia development market.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess qualifications, experience, and alignment with the role's technical requirements.

• Technical Interview: This stage will likely involve detailed discussions about your experience with site-civil design principles, stormwater management, utility design, and regulatory compliance. Expect questions about specific projects from your portfolio.

• Software Proficiency Assessment: A practical demonstration or in-depth discussion of your proficiency with AutoCAD Civil 3D, including your approach to complex design tasks.

• Problem-Solving Exercise: You may be given a hypothetical site scenario or a challenging design problem to solve, requiring you to articulate your thought process, methodology, and potential solutions.

• Meet the Team/Manager: An opportunity to meet with potential colleagues and the hiring manager to assess cultural fit, communication style, and leadership potential.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership, focusing on your career aspirations, leadership philosophy, and how you can contribute to the company's long-term goals.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Organize by Project: Present your portfolio project by project, clearly outlining the project's scope, your role, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the final outcomes.

• Highlight Technical Depth: Showcase your best work in grading, stormwater management, utility design, and E&S control. Use clear visuals (plan sheets, drainage schematics) and concise explanations.

• Emphasize Problem-Solving: For each project, be ready to discuss specific technical challenges you encountered and how you overcame them. Quantify results where possible (e.g., "reduced earthwork by X%", "achieved Y% reduction in runoff").

• Demonstrate Software Skills: Be prepared to walk through specific design elements in AutoCAD Civil 3D, explaining your techniques for efficiency and accuracy.

• Regulatory Acumen: Clearly articulate how you ensured compliance with local codes and standards for each project.

• Conciseness: Focus on quality over quantity. Select projects that best represent your skills and experience relevant to land development.

Challenge Preparation:

• Review Core Principles: Refresh your knowledge of grading, hydrology, hydraulics, utility design, and E&S control.

• Understand Local Context: Familiarize yourself with typical development challenges and regulatory nuances in Northern Virginia.

• Think Through Scenarios: Practice articulating your approach to common land development design problems, considering factors like site constraints, environmental impacts, and cost-effectiveness.

• Prepare Questions: Have thoughtful questions ready for the interviewers about the team, projects, company culture, and growth opportunities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a Lead Designer will heavily scrutinize technical expertise and problem-solving abilities. Your portfolio is your primary tool to demonstrate these capabilities, so meticulous preparation is essential.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• AutoCAD Civil 3D: The core software for site-civil design, grading, utility layout, and plan production. Advanced proficiency is a must.

• Microsoft Office Suite: For project management tasks, cost estimations, scheduling, and general communication (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Hydrology/Hydraulics Software: Tools like HEC-RAS, HEC-HMS, HydroCAD, or similar for stormwater analysis, drainage design, and flood modeling.

• GIS Software (e.g., ArcGIS): May be used for site analysis, data visualization, and integration with design workflows.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly customer-facing, CRM principles of data management and process efficiency are relevant for project tracking and client communication within project management software.

• Project Management Software: Potentially used for scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking (e.g., Microsoft Project, Primavera, or company-specific platforms).

• Document Management Systems: For organizing and sharing project files and technical documentation.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in AutoCAD Civil 3D is non-negotiable. Familiarity with hydrology and hydraulic modeling software is also crucial given the emphasis on stormwater management.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Design: A commitment to delivering high-quality, innovative, and technically sound engineering solutions.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering an environment where individuals work together effectively across disciplines to achieve common goals.

• Client Focus: Prioritizing client needs and satisfaction through responsive service and tailored solutions.

• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all business dealings and professional conduct.

• Continuous Improvement: Encouraging ongoing learning, skill development, and adaptation to new technologies and best practices.

• Safety & Compliance: A strong emphasis on safety in design and adherence to all relevant regulations and standards.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expect active collaboration with engineers from different disciplines, surveyors, and potentially project managers and administrative staff.

• Mentorship & Knowledge Sharing: A culture that supports senior staff in guiding junior team members and encourages the sharing of expertise and best practices.

• Constructive Feedback: Openness to providing and receiving constructive feedback to improve designs and processes.

• Project-Centric Approach: Team efforts are typically organized around specific projects, requiring close coordination among team members assigned to that project.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's values likely align with traditional engineering principles: technical rigor, client service, and ethical conduct. The emphasis on collaboration and mentorship is key for a Lead Designer role.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Complex Regulations: Staying current with and applying evolving local zoning ordinances, stormwater regulations, and environmental standards in a dynamic regulatory landscape.

• Balancing Design Constraints: Integrating diverse project requirements (e.g., grading, utilities, stormwater, aesthetics, cost) within challenging site conditions and budget limitations.

• Managing Junior Staff Development: Effectively mentoring and guiding junior engineers who may have varying levels of experience and skill.

• Project Deadlines & Workload: Managing multiple projects simultaneously and meeting tight deadlines, especially during peak development cycles.

• Adapting to New Technologies: Continuously learning and integrating new design software features or analysis tools to improve efficiency and design quality.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Access to specialized training in areas like advanced stormwater modeling, complex grading techniques, or sustainable design practices.

• Professional Certifications: Support for obtaining or maintaining professional licenses (PE) and potentially pursuing certifications in areas like stormwater management or LEED.

• Project Management Skills: Opportunities to learn and develop project management skills through involvement in project planning, scheduling, and cost control.

• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Attendance at relevant engineering conferences and workshops to stay abreast of industry trends and network with peers.

• Leadership Development Programs: Potential for participation in programs designed to enhance leadership, communication, and team management capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for experienced land development engineers. The growth opportunities highlight the company's investment in employee development, offering pathways for both technical mastery and career advancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your most challenging land development project and how you overcame the key design obstacles." (Focus on your technical problem-solving, regulatory navigation, and design choices.)

• "Walk me through your process for designing a stormwater management system for a new commercial development, including BMP selection and compliance with VADEQ standards." (Demonstrate your technical methodology and regulatory knowledge.)

• "How do you approach managing a team of junior engineers and EITs on a complex project? What is your mentorship philosophy?" (Highlight your leadership and team-building skills.)

• "Describe your experience with AutoCAD Civil 3D. Can you provide an example of a complex grading or utility design you created using the software?" (Be prepared to discuss specific features and workflows.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Trilon Group/RDA, and specifically this Land Development Engineer role?" (Research the company's projects, values, and recent news.)

• "How do you handle disagreements or differing technical opinions within a project team?" (Demonstrate your collaboration and communication skills.)

• "Describe a time you had to work with a challenging client or navigate a difficult permitting process." (Showcase your client management and problem-solving under pressure.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Tell a Story: For each project, frame it as a narrative: the challenge, your approach, the solution, and the successful outcome.

• Focus on Your Role: Clearly articulate your specific contributions, especially if projects were team-based. Use "I" statements for your direct actions.

• Visual Aids: Utilize clear, well-annotated plan sheets, drainage schematics, and cross-sections. Ensure they are legible and easy to understand.

• Quantify Impact: Wherever possible, use numbers to demonstrate the effectiveness of your designs (e.g., cost savings, efficiency improvements, environmental benefits).

• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about your design decisions, calculations, and software techniques.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare to discuss your technical expertise in detail, using specific examples from your portfolio. Demonstrating your ability to lead, problem-solve, and navigate regulations will be key to success.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Land Development Engineer - Lead Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on Trilon Group's career portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your 4-8 years of specific land development/site-civil experience, emphasizing your PE/EIT status and AutoCAD Civil 3D proficiency.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly lists your experience with grading, stormwater management, utilities, E&S control, and familiarity with local Northern Virginia codes and standards. Use keywords from the job description.

• Portfolio Preparation: Compile a professional portfolio showcasing 3-5 key land development projects. Include examples of site plans, grading plans, stormwater designs, and utility layouts. Be prepared to discuss your role, technical challenges, and solutions for each project.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Trilon Group and Rinker Design Associates, LLC (RDA), their project portfolio, and their stated values. Understand their presence and impact in the Northern Virginia region.

⚠️ 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.