Design Specialist

HBK Engineering, LLC is a fully licensed, professional engineering design firm headquartered in Chicago, IL with a staff approaching 700 individuals. HBK provides civil, environmental, structural, electrical, subsurface utility, construction support services and permitting facilitation. Since our founding in 1998, we have earned a reputation for delivering outstanding, accurate services in extremely time-sensitive, multilayered environments. That "industry-recognized" performance has propelled our expansion and the ability to provide engineering services in all 50 states. With 25 offices nationwide, including concentrations in the Midwest and on the Coasts, HBK brings together a dedicated team whose main focus is the design and protection of utilities and utility networks. We have successfully performed engineering work for a complete spectrum of utility infrastructure projects providing solutions and construction support from Coast to Coast in areas ranging from complex urban city centers, to rural greenfields, to limited access rights-of-way. In July 2020, HBK Engineering was acquired by Quanta Services. Quanta Services provides infrastructure services for electric power, pipeline, and communications industries and employees over 50,000 people. Quanta’s focus on the utility industry and HBK’s focus on constructability in our designs has made our integration into the Quanta family of companies seamless.

A Design Specialist at HBK Engineering is a position that combines advanced technical expertise with comprehensive project management responsibilities. This senior-level role requires applying broad knowledge of engineering principles and practices while acting as a team lead in coordinating detailed design phases for all aspects of utility engineering work. Crucially, candidates must possess direct experience with BG&E (Baltimore Gas and Electric) standards and systems to ensure project compliance and technical accuracy. The position involves extensive client interface on engineering and project management topics, including project scope, schedule, budget, and invoices. The Design Specialist is responsible for managing project finances to ensure completion within budget and on time, representing a critical leadership anchor within the regional engineering team.

• Apply broad knowledge of engineering principles and practices to ensure design compliance with relevant specifications, codes, and client requirements
• Independently evaluate, select, and adapt standard techniques, procedures, and criteria to address unique and complex electrical, structural, civil, and construction-related challenges
• Act as team lead in coordinating detailed design phases for all aspects of utility engineering work
• Coach and mentor entry-level staff in their professional development
• Perform quality control reviews of engineering designs under the oversight of professional engineering staff
• Interface with clients to discuss engineering and project management topics including project scope, schedule, budget, and invoices
• Assist in the development of project scope for proposals, contracts, and cost estimates
• Schedule and coordinate design work including relevant field support to ensure projects are completed on time
• Develop and track project finances to ensure projects are completed within budget
• Own all phases of the design lifecycle from project initiation through construction completion and closeout
• Prepare reports and studies that present technical information clearly and concisely to meet client requirements
• Work with project management and engineering leadership to manage project risk
• Communicate complex engineering matters to internal project management, engineering leadership, and field resources
• Independently manage time and schedule to achieve project milestones
• Perform field walkdowns with internal staff, clients, customers, governance authorities, and construction partners
• Travel as needed, typically less than 25%

• Associate degree in a related technical field (preferred)
• Related technical certificates in CADD and related software platforms (preferred)
• 10+ years of relevant experience
• US driver's license and US work authorization
• Ability to work independently and in interdisciplinary teams
• Strong technology skills and understanding of the Office365 suite of tools
• In-depth knowledge of 2D CADD software (AutoCAD or similar) including generating layout drawings and project materials
• Experience reviewing drawings or engineering materials developed by others
• Staff management and team oversight experience
• Training and mentoring experience with entry- and mid-level staff
• Understanding of remote communication software
• Ability to quickly come up to speed on in-process projects and hit the ground running
• Experience collaborating with teams to complete larger projects
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills suited for both internal and external conversations
• Active management experience with project scope, schedule, and budget
• Persistence to see projects through to completion
• Adaptability to change in a dynamic team environment.

• Senior leadership opportunities combining technical expertise with project management
• Direct client interface responsibilities including budget and schedule discussions
• Professional growth within the HBK Organization's senior Design Track
• Opportunity to lead coordination of complex utility engineering projects with full lifecycle ownership
• Project financial management and proposal development experience
• Team leadership and mentoring responsibilities
• Collaborative work environment with project management and engineering leadership
• Travel opportunities for field work and client engagement
• Comprehensive benefits package
• Career advancement opportunities in senior design and project management roles.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex (including gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity), age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, and/or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.

We prohibit all types of discrimination and are committed to providing access and equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities. For additional information or if reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application, interview, or hiring processes or to perform the essential functions of a position, please contact us the Company’s Human Resources department.