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Linear (Pipeline) Design Engineer

GFT.
Chicago, IL Full Time
POSTED ON 5/18/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 5/10/2027

GFT is seeking a Linear (Pipeline) Design Engineer to join our Water/Wastewater Team in Chicago, IL or Schaumburg, IL. This role follows a hybrid work model, requiring regular attendance in the office. 

 

Joining the water resources team at GFT means contributing to innovative solutions for sustainable water management and infrastructure. Our team excels in dams and levees, advanced water and wastewater treatment, stormwater management, and conveyance, collection, and transmission. With a focus on integrating technology, sustainability, and compliance, we consider each water resources and environmental remediation project a chance to innovate and evolve to protect public health and enhance quality of life. Explore some of our signature water resources and environmental projects here.  

What you’ll be challenged to do:

As Linear Design Engineer you will provide technical leadership and support to our team of highly skilled engineers while executing projects simultaneously and utilizing technical knowledge and experience to enhance the team’s overall capabilities. The Senior Engineer will be managing project/tasks in the planning, design and construction of water distribution systems, wastewater collection systems, stormwater systems, and pump/lift stations as well as creating construction documents, and specifications.

In this capacity, the successful candidate will be responsible for the following: 

  • Manage and lead condition assessment evaluations for water, wastewater, and storm system assets including pipelines and pump/lift stations using a variety of approaches and technologies.
  • Lead preparation of feasibility studies, alternative analyses, and basis of design reports for a variety of linear water, wastewater, and stormwater projects.
  • Meet established budgets and delivery schedules for each assignment; for project/task scope schedule and budget.
  • Work directly with clients to determine needs and provide solutions and may lead teams in the preparation of winning proposals and successful presentations.
  • Coordinate execution of projects with other disciplines and the Project/Program Manager.
  • Develop small to large design projects from inception to completion.
  • Prepare complete construction packages (including all deliverables) for the engineering, procurement, and construction of W/WW systems for clients.
  • Create and manage cost estimates and project schedules and will be responsible for completing design tasks within budget and on schedule.
  • Lead preparation of detailed engineering calculations & analysis and utilize design software to solve complex issues.
  • Supervise and support the work of others and mentor junior level engineers & design/drafting technical staff.

What you will bring to our firm:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Civil, Environmental, Mechanical, Chemical Engineering or a related field of study.
  • 8-15 years of related linear (water pipeline) design experience
  • Project experience including design, permitting, and construction of water distribution systems, wastewater collection systems, storm water systems, water storage tanks, and pump/lift stations.
  • Strong, clear, and concise written and oral communication skills.
  • Excellent technical writing skills.
  • Experience managing preparation of and reviewing and approving project drawings, specifications, schedules, and cost estimates.
  • Functional experience with MS Office applications.

What we prefer you bring:

  • Professional Engineer (PE) License
  • Active participation in regional or national professional associations.
Compensation:The salary range for this role is $75,000 - $150,000. Salary is dependent upon experience and geographic location.  Featured Benefits: • Hybrid (in-person and remote) work environment.• Comprehensive benefits package including wellness programs, parental leave, and pet insurance, in addition to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance.• Tax-deferred 401(k) savings plan.• Competitive paid-time-off (PTO) accrual.• Tuition reimbursement for continued education.• Commitment to professional development, access to internal and external training programs, and support of active participation in professional organizations• Incentive compensation for eligible positions.

 

At GFT, a privately held AEC firm, we innovate where transportation, water, power, and buildings converge. We call this the Infrastructure of Life. We measure our success by the strength of our relationships – that’s why we’re the employer of choice for 5,000 of the industry’s brightest engineers, planners, architects, inspectors, designers, and more.

 

Our clients choose us for our expertise and prefer us for our nimble approach, creativity, and personal touch. Backed by over a century’s experience, together we’re building a lasting legacy for future generations: stronger communities, a healthier planet, and better lives.GFT: Ingenuity That Shapes Lives™ is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veterans’ status or other characteristics protected by law.

 

Unsolicited resumes from third party agencies will be considered the property GFT.

 

GFT does require the successful completion of a criminal background check for all advertised positions. 

 

Location: Chicago, IL; Schaumburg, IL

Core Business Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PMEmployment Status: Full-Time

 

#LI-hybrid

#LI-KV1

Salary : $75,000 - $150,000

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