Senior Project Engineer

Job Description

Cochran is a growing civil engineering, construction testing, and land surveying firm with 7 offices in Missouri. Cochran specializes in public and private projects including municipal, commercial, residential, transportation, water/wastewater, site development, retail, planning, and interior design. With a team of 100+ professionals across multiple offices, Cochran brings unique knowledge and understanding to each client's project. The firm is guided by its core values of teamwork, excellence, quality, and trust, ensuring outstanding customer service and principal involvement in all project phases.

Cochran's Kansas City, Missouri location is looking for an experienced Senior Project Engineer.

Who are we looking for? The Senior Project Engineer is responsible for overseeing the planning, design, and implementation of municipal infrastructure projects, including roads, drainage systems, water and sewer networks, and other public facilities. This role involves leading engineering teams, ensuring compliance with local and federal regulations, managing budgets, and coordinating with various stakeholders to deliver high-quality public works projects.

Key Responsibilities:

Project Management & Engineering Oversight:

Lead and oversee the design, development, and implementation of public infrastructure projects

Conduct feasibility studies, cost estimates, and engineering analyses

Prepare and review engineering plans, specifications, and reports

Ensure projects are completed on time, within budget, and in compliance with safety and environmental regulations

Provide technical guidance and support to project engineers and project teams

Regulatory Compliance & Permitting:

Ensure all projects comply with local, state, and federal regulations

Obtain necessary permits and approvals from government agencies

Review and interpret engineering codes, ordinances, and policies related to public works

Stakeholder Coordination & Communication:

Collaborate with city officials, contractors, consultants, and the public to ensure effective project execution

Represent Cochran in meetings, hearings, and community engagement initiatives

Address inquiries and concerns regarding infrastructure projects and services

Budgeting & Contract Management:

Develop project budgets and monitor expenditures

Prepare bid documents, contracts, and procurement plans

Oversee contractor performance and ensure compliance with contract terms

Maintenance & Infrastructure Improvement:

Evaluate existing public infrastructure and recommend upgrades or repairs

Implement asset management strategies for long-term infrastructure sustainability

Develop and enforce maintenance standards for public works facilities

Qualifications & Requirements:

Education & Experience:

Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, or a related field

A minimum of 5-10 years of engineering experience in public works or municipal infrastructure

Professional Engineer (PE) license, required

Skills & Competencies:

Strong knowledge of civil engineering principles, construction methods, and project management

Proficiency in CAD software, GIS mapping, and engineering analysis tools

Excellent leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities

Strong communication and interpersonal skills for working with diverse stakeholders

Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and adapt to changing priorities

Excellent benefits:

Competitive base salary

100% company paid Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, and Long-Term Disability Insurance for employee, plus company deductible assistance.

Paid time off including vacation, sick, and 7 major holidays

401k with 4% Company Match

Full-time