Project Engineer

Project Engineer

Salary Range: $50,000 - $80,000 annually (based on experience)

Bonus Eligible: This position is eligible for Curran Contracting's incentive bonus program.

About Curran Contracting

Established in 1936, Curran Contracting has grown into one of the region's premier heavy civil contractors, specializing in site development, excavation, mass grading, paving, and asphalt production. Serving commercial, industrial, and government clients, Curran operates from six strategic locations throughout Illinois and Indiana, including Crystal Lake, DeKalb, Island Lake, Sycamore, Oswego, and Merrillville.

For nearly 90 years, Curran has built a reputation for excellence through a commitment to delivering high-quality work, fostering strong partnerships, and investing in its people. Our success is rooted in five core values—Family, Improvement, Integrity, Partnership, and Respect—which guide every decision we make and every relationship we build.

Position Summary

The Project Engineer plays a vital role in the successful delivery of heavy highway and site development projects by supporting project planning, coordination, documentation, and field operations. This position serves as a foundational step within Curran's Project Management career path, providing hands-on experience and professional development opportunities while contributing to the successful execution of complex construction projects.

Working closely with Project Managers, Senior Project Managers, field leadership, subcontractors, and clients, the Project Engineer gains exposure to the full project lifecycle while developing the technical, financial, operational, and leadership skills necessary for long-term career growth within the organization.

Key Responsibilities

Project Coordination & Execution

• Support project startup activities, including project setup, documentation management, and tracking systems.
• Assist with the preparation, distribution, and tracking of Requests for Information (RFIs), submittals, project correspondence, and other project documentation.
• Support Project Managers in the development and maintenance of project schedules.
• Monitor and update weekly site schedules as directed by project leadership.
• Assist with project communications between field teams, subcontractors, suppliers, and management.
• Participate in weekly project meetings and contribute to coordination efforts that support project success.

Field Support & Site Operations

• Conduct regular jobsite visits to observe project progress, verify compliance, and gain practical construction experience.
• Support field personnel by facilitating communication, documentation, and issue resolution.
• Develop an understanding of construction means and methods, project sequencing, and operational planning.
• Ensure project records and documentation are maintained accurately and consistently.

Financial & Contract Administration

• Assist with cost code tracking, labor reporting, and project-related data entry.
• Learn the fundamentals of project budgeting, cost forecasting, and financial reporting.
• Support subcontractor onboarding, documentation collection, and purchase order processing.
• Assist project teams in tracking subcontractor compliance and contract requirements.
• Gain exposure to project financial management practices and reporting processes.

Change Management & Client Support

• Learn to identify potential changes in project scope and contract requirements.
• Assist in the preparation and documentation of change requests and supporting materials.
• Support project correspondence and client communications under the guidance of Project Managers.
• Gain experience with project contracts, specifications, and owner requirements.

Professional Development

• Actively participate in mentorship, coaching, and development opportunities provided by Project Managers and Senior Project Managers.
• Develop an understanding of project management principles, leadership expectations, and construction industry best practices.
• Continuously expand technical knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and leadership capabilities.
• Demonstrate a commitment to personal growth, continuous improvement, and Curran's core values.

Qualifications

Required Skills & Abilities

• Strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with project teams, subcontractors, vendors, and clients.
• Strong problem-solving skills and willingness to learn in a fast-paced construction environment.
• Ability to adapt to changing project demands and work effectively in both office and field settings.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Word, and Outlook.
• Commitment to professionalism, teamwork, and continuous improvement.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related field preferred.
• Internship, co-op, or prior construction experience preferred.
• Familiarity with construction processes, project documentation, and scheduling concepts is beneficial.
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel between project sites and office locations.
• Demonstrated desire to build a long-term career in construction project management.

Working Conditions

• Must be able to sit for prolonged periods both at a desk and while driving or riding in a vehicle.
• Regularly required to tour active construction sites and must comply with Curran's safety policies, including wearing and maintaining required PPE (e.g., hard hat, safety vest, eye protection, hearing protection, safety-toe footwear).
• Exposure to varying outdoor weather conditions (heat, cold, rain, dust) is common.
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs. of materials, equipment, or project-related items.
• Must possess a valid driver's license and be able to safely operate a personal or company vehicle to and from job sites, meetings, and other business-related activities.
• Employees are expected to conduct themselves professionally and uphold Curran's core values at all internal and external work-related events, as well as during daily interactions and operations.

Benefits & Additional Compensation

• Medical, Dental & Vision Benefits
• Profit Sharing
• 401(k) Plan with up to 5% Employer Match
• Leadership Development Coaching
• Ongoing Training & Professional Development
• Company Events & Team Engagement Opportunities
• 13 Days PTO
• 10 Paid Holidays

Guided by our values of Family, Respect, Partnership, Integrity, and Improvement, this job description provides a general overview of responsibilities. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list. Curran Contracting reserves the right to adjust duties, titles, and roles as necessary to support business needs.

Curran Contracting Company provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, citizen status, religion, ancestry, national origin, age, disability, sex, martial status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, or any other basis prohibited be applicable federal, state, or local employment laws or regulations in every location in which the company has facilities.