Stormwater Design Engineer

Position Summary

Picture this: You’re a stormwater expert. You know California jurisdictions inside and out. You’re experienced, driven, and looking to grow as a water quality professional.

So why are you still buried in someone else’s org chart?

That’s where CDR comes in: we are seeking a Stormwater Engineer who can apply their mastery of water quality modeling and reports, minus the organizational chaos. What does that mean?

From day 1, you’ll have complete ownership, guaranteed visibility, zero bureaucracy, direct collaboration with project engineers, and full internal integration. That’s the CDR difference.

If you are a water resources engineer who thrives in a collaborative environment and enjoys navigating challenges in a fast-paced environment, this is your opportunity to drive impact.

Beyond technical expertise, we are looking for someone who can bring enthusiasm to every aspect of the role: client management, integration with project teams, and mentorship of junior water resource professionals. Here at CDR, you won’t simply be a cog in the wheel — you’ll be a changemaker.

About Us – Commercial Development Resources (CDR)

Commercial Development Resources (CDR) is a civil engineering firm based in Costa Mesa, California, specializing in commercial land development. Outside of the building, CDR delivers the full suite land development services including:

• Civil engineering
• Dry utilities
• Landscape architecture
• Planning and permitting

With a growing base of loyal clients like Habit Burger & Grill and AutoNation, CDR is recognized as a leading development partner in Southern California with projects expanding across the U.S. We are renowned for maximizing our clients’ ROI with persistence, urgency, and integrity. At the heart of our award-winning team culture is a "work hard, play hard" attitude

🔗 Learn more about our projects and culture: www.cdrwest.com

Key Responsibilities

Stormwater Expertise

• Lead stormwater management and water quality design for commercial development clients.
• Prepare hydrology reports including, but not limited to, project background, technical drainage exhibits, and runoff calculation spreadsheets.
• Prepare water quality reports including water treatment design, technical site plan, and water quality treatment calculations.

Client Satisfaction:

• Prepare comment response letters and redlines.
• Establish ongoing dialogue with agencies and plan checkers.
• Maintain excellent relationships with clients with clear and consistent communication.

Navigate Compliance:

• Research, interpret, and apply standards and codes required by cities, counties, watersheds, and other jurisdictions.
• Retain up-to-date knowledge of hydrology and water quality requirements in jurisdictions across California.
• Ensure compliance with appropriate ADA requirements and grading design.

Collaborate with Cross-Functional Teams:

• Communicate with project engineers, project managers, and permitting specialists for timely project delivery.
• Mentor junior engineers and advise project engineers on water resource concerns and stormwater management.

Qualifications

• Overall Experience: At least 4 years of experience in stormwater design and/or water quality (preferably with commercial projects).
• Water Quality Experience: Expertise in BMP/treatment device selection, design, and implementation.
• Compliance Skills: Firm grasp of hydrology and water quality requirements in jurisdictions across California.
• Software Skillsets: Proficiency in AutoCAD Civil 3D and Microsoft Excel, and additional experience with other stormwater software is a plus.
• Stellar Communication Skills: Ability to communicate with clients and project engineers to foster a collaborative work environment.
• Growth Mindset: A motivation for constant learning and a proactive approach to overcoming challenges with strong analytical skills.
• Certifications: Professional Engineer (PE) license in California preferred.
• Educational Background: Bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering OR civil engineering.
• Cultural Fit: Exemplifies CDR’s core values of collaboration, persistence, integrity, and an entrepreneurial spirit.
• Must be authorized to work in the United States.

Why Join CDR?

• Impactful Stormwater Role

Play a key role in delivering exceptional project results at a growing, forward-thinking firm.

• Competitive Compensation, Benefits, and Perks

On top of a competitive salary, receive performance-based incentives, comprehensive medical insurance coverage with HSA options, flexible on-site work hours (including half-day Fridays), 401(k) with company match, and take part in memorable company trips and outings!

• Collaborative, Values-Driven Culture

Join an award-winning team culture rooted in innovation, collaboration, integrity, and excellence.

• Growth & Development

We offer meaningful opportunities for advancement and remain committed to investing in our people. Through mentorship and training, we provide the resources for our team to succeed internally and beyond.

Commercial Development Resources is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.