What are the responsibilities and job description for the Civil Engineer - Drainage position at Christopher B. Burke Engineering, Ltd.?
If you enjoy hands‑on design work, solving engineering challenges, and learning from experienced mentors, this role gives you the foundation to grow quickly in the drainage discipline.
At CBBEL, our values guide everything we do:
Integrity – We follow through on our promises.
Excellence – We’re always learning, growing, and raising the bar.
Fellowship – We support each other like a true team.
Resilience – We stay steady even when challenges arise.
Collaboration – We bring our best when we work together.
Sound like your kind of environment? Let’s dive into the details.
What You’ll Do
- Support the design of drainage, stormwater, and roadway infrastructure.
- Assist with quantity takeoffs, engineer’s estimates, roadway geometrics, grading, utility coordination, plan/profile development, and construction details.
- Perform calculations for accurate and complete design work.
- Use MicroStation to prepare plans and construction documents.
- Coordinate with other disciplines and subconsultants as needed.
- Follow department QA/QC processes and help maintain organized project files.
- Communicate project status with supervisors and partners through meetings, conversations, and emails.
- Participate in field visits or client updates on occasion.
- Build familiarity with project budgeting and how design decisions impact cost and schedule.
- Work efficiently to help keep projects on time and within budget.
What You Bring
- Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering (ABET‑accredited) or related field.
- 0-5 years of job-related experience (full-time, part-time, or internship)
- Experience using Microsoft Office, MicroStation, and/or AutoCAD
- Engineer Intern (EI) Certificate in Illinois, or ability to obtain within 12 months.
- Strong communication, organizational, and problem‑solving skills.
- Detail‑oriented with the ability to manage multiple tasks.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
- Consistent, reliable work habits.
Not Sure You’re a Perfect Match?
If you’re passionate about civil design, even if you’re still building your experience—we encourage you to apply. Bring curiosity, initiative, and a willingness to learn. We’ll provide mentorship, hands-on exposure, and clear growth pathways within the drainage team.
Why Join CBBEL?
CBBEL is a full-service civil engineering firm with more than 250 professionals committed to delivering accurate, timely and cost-effective solutions to a wide range of engineering and environmental challenges. One out of every three team members has been with us for more than 20 years, demonstrating how our values create a place where people want to grow.
Our team serves as Municipal Engineer for 26 communities and supports hundreds of public and private sector clients with planning, design, and construction services. We boast a highly talented, experienced and educated team and are proud of our successful, long-term relationships with a wide variety of clients throughout Chicagoland. When you join us, you’ll find:
- Clear progression pathways
- Supportive mentorship and hands-on project exposure from experienced drainage professionals
- Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, generous PTO, 401(k) matching, and discretionary year-end bonuses
- A collaborative team that values your ideas, supports your career goals, and celebrates shared success
Christopher B. Burke Engineering, Ltd. (CBBEL) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. It is the policy of CBBEL to provide equal employment opportunity without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, marital status, changes in marital status, pregnancy, childbirth, or medical or common conditions related to pregnancy or childbirth, parenthood, creed, veteran’s status, veteran’s disability and physical or mental disability, citizenship status or unfavorable discharge from the military. CBBEL intends that all matters related to recruiting, hiring, training, compensation, benefits, promotions, transfers, terminations, layoffs and recalls, as well as all CBBEL sponsored social and recreational programs, and all treatment on the job, be free of unlawful discriminatory practices. If you need to inquire about an accommodation, or need assistance with completing the application process, please email hr@cbbel.com.