Civil Engineering Practice Leader

Company Description

At KPFF Consulting Engineers, we are more than just an engineering design firm. For over 60 years, we have dedicated ourselves to innovative, sustainable engineering that shapes the built environment and tackles complex infrastructure challenges. Our team culture emphasizes balance, growth, and well-being, supporting each member’s professional journey with flexibility, generous benefits, and a collaborative approach to work-life integration.

With over 1,400 professionals across 27 offices nationwide, KPFF’s decentralized structure allows each office the flexibility to pursue projects aligned with their regional strengths. Learn more at www.kpff.com.

Job Description

We are seeking an accomplished Civil Engineering Practice Leader to spearhead high-level project execution, business development, and strategic growth initiatives for our Northern California Civil Group. This role offers significant location flexibility in Northern California, allowing for professional growth and leadership opportunities within KPFF. This position is ideal for a seasoned civil engineering professional with proven expertise in leading large-scale projects, managing multidisciplinary teams, and shaping the strategic vision of the practice.

As a Practice Leader, you will be instrumental in shaping our client relationships, ensuring project excellence, and making key strategic decisions to enhance our firm's position in the industry.

• Lead High-Level Project Execution: Oversee complex civil engineering projects, ensuring that all phases—from planning and design through to delivery—meet quality standards, budget constraints, and timeline requirements.
• Drive Business Development and Client Engagement: Develop and expand client relationships, identify new business opportunities, and contribute to proposal and contract development to support the growth and profitability of the practice.
• Guide Strategic Decision-Making: Participate in senior-level strategic planning, aligning project goals with organizational objectives and market opportunities to strengthen the practice’s position and reputation.
• Lead and Mentor Large Project Teams: Provide leadership and direction to multidisciplinary project teams, promoting collaboration and high performance. Mentor junior and mid-level engineers, fostering professional growth and succession planning within the team.
• Ensure Regulatory Compliance and Quality Standards: Oversee compliance with all regulatory standards and quality practices, ensuring projects meet client expectations and adhere to industry requirements.
• Promote Innovation and Best Practices: Stay informed of industry trends, technological advancements, and best practices, integrating new approaches and solutions that enhance project outcomes and client satisfaction.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering; Master’s degree preferred
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in civil engineering, with a proven record of leading high-level projects and managing large teams
• Professional Engineer (PE) license required
• Strong expertise in project management software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera) and design tools (e.g., AutoCAD, Civil 3D)
• Demonstrated experience in business development, client management, and contract negotiations
• Strategic thinker with a strong understanding of market trends and business operations in the civil engineering sector
• Exceptional leadership skills, with a proven ability to lead, motivate, and mentor project teams
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation abilities, with experience engaging with clients, stakeholders, and executive leadership
• In-depth knowledge of regulatory requirements, environmental standards, and sustainable design practices
• Familiarity with advanced project delivery methods, including Design-Build and Public-Private Partnerships, is a plus

Physical Demands and Work Environment

• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while working on a computer, reviewing plans, or conducting site visits.
• Capacity to move around project sites, climb ladders, and navigate uneven terrain.
• Occasionally lifting up to 15 pounds of equipment or materials.

Additional Information

Compensation
The base salary for this role starts at $120,000 and is competitive, with the final amount determined based o