Project Development Engineer

Willdan Performance Engineering, a division of Willdan Group Inc, inspires and empowers communities by creating transformational environments. Our clients include school districts; universities; city, county, and state governments; private enterprises; and healthcare facilities. Our dynamic and inclusive culture embodies the following values: 

1. We drive change 
2. We think long-term 
3. We are courageous experts delivering ambitious solutions 
4. Personal growth drives organizational growth; Organizational growth drives personal growth 
5. We succeed when we are accountable as a team 
6. We cultivate diverse, equitable, and inclusive teams committed to serving our communities 

We are looking for an eager and energetic Project Development Engineer that is passionate about the energy and sustainability industry. This is a on-site position based out of Denver, CO. The selected candidate will become a part of a growing organization that is invested in your career growth, with competitive benefits and a diverse project workload. This individual will be shaped to become the next leader in the energy industry. Come grow with us! 

• Site Audits & Analysis:
  • Conduct in-depth site audits focusing on existing lighting systems.
  • Evaluate system performance, identify inefficiencies, and recommend cost-effective retrofitting or replacements.
  • Identify emergency lighting systems and ensure compliance with local, state, and federal codes, including life safety and fire protection standards.
• Design & Implementation:
  • Develop lighting retrofit and replacement plans that improve efficiency while ensuring ease of construction and integration with building aesthetics.
  • Optimize system controllability and energy performance.
• Ensure all lighting designs meet applicable code requirements (e.g., California Title 24, NFPA 101 Life Safety Code) and address emergency lighting needs.
• Project Development:
  • Support preliminary and conceptual engineering tasks, including energy modeling, system analysis, and compliance reviews.
  • Assist in business development activities such as client engagement, proposal preparation, and contract negotiations.
• Project Coordination & Documentation:
  • Manage deadlines, budgets, and deliverables during preliminary and design stages.
  • Coordinate with internal and external teams on design documents, specifications, and construction materials.
  • Provide data for construction management and commissioning teams to ensure cost-effective and feasible solutions.
  • Document all emergency system findings and verify code compliance in project reports.
• Innovation & Research:
  • Explore and propose new technologies for future projects, staying ahead of industry trends.
• Support & Administration:
  • Participate in technical bid analyses and respond to RFIs during construction.
  • Assist with project close-out documentation, ensuring compliance with company policies, safety objectives, and quality standards. 

Qualifications: 

• Education:
  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering.
  • OR 3-5 years of relevant experience in the lighting industry.
• Skills & Competencies:
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to simplify complex technical concepts for non-technical stakeholders.
  • Proficiency in MS Office Suite, especially Excel and Word.
  • Interest in energy efficiency, sustainability, and advancements in lighting technologies.
  • Problem-solving mindset, attention to detail, and the ability to thrive in a team-driven environment.
  • Positive attitude, adaptability, and strong organizational skills.

EEO Non-Discrimination and ADA Reasonable Accommodation Statement
Willdan is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants are considered for all positions without regard to race, religious creed, color, age marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, citizenship status, national origin, ancestry, religion, military service or veteran status, disability, medical condition, childbirth and related medical conditions, genetic testing, reproductive status or any other classification protected by federal, state or local laws and ordinances. Willdan does not discriminate on the basis of physical or mental disability where the essential functions of the job can be reasonably accommodated. Determin