Civil Water & Utilities Engineer III/IV

SGM is seeking a Civil Water Resources Engineer III/IV to join our Civil – Water & Utilities team. This position requires a strong technical foundation in hydraulics, hydrology, and general civil engineering with additional responsibilities in project management, client coordination, and mentoring of junior staff. The successful candidate will contribute to a wide variety of municipal and private-sector water resources, water, and other utility-related projects while helping guide projects from planning through construction.

This position is ideal for a mid-level experienced engineer who enjoys technical design, leading projects, mentoring junior staff, and working closely with clients in Western Colorado.

Pay based on experience

Engineer III (4-10 yrs): $89,600 - $115,600/yr.

Engineer IV (8-15 yrs): $105,400 - $131,300/yr.

The Civil Water Resources Engineer III/IV will specialize in raw-water/irrigation, natural waterways, drainage systems, and other utility-related infrastructure projects , including:

• Design of municipal water, sanitary sewer, and storm drainage systems
• Post-fire flood control measures
• Agricultural irrigation systems (both delivery and end-use), ponds, and natural streams
• Water conveyance, water distribution, and wastewater systems
• General civil engineering projects related to utilities and water resources
• H & H support for other sectors (transportation/bridges, water rights, site development)

Key Duties & Responsibilities

Technical & Design Responsibilities

• Lead and perform design for irrigation, municipal water, wastewater, stormwater, and other infrastructure projects
• Produce and oversee development of construction drawings, specifications, technical reports, and cost estimates
• Use AutoCAD Civil 3D for design, production and review of pipe and pressure networks, and grading
• Perform and oversee hydrology and hydraulic calculations using industry-standard software (e.g., HEC-RAS, HEC-HMS, TR-55, Hydraflow, EPANET)
• Apply municipal, state, and federal design criteria and standards, including local agency standards, Division of Water Resources criteria, NRCS standards
• Provide quality control and technical review of work prepared by junior staff

Project Management & Client Responsibilities

• Plan, manage, and execute projects of varying size and complexity with limited external direction
• Manage project scope, schedules, budgets, and deliverables
• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients and maintain strong working relationships
• Coordinate project work with other disciplines including roadway, structural, survey, geotechnical, water resources, and SUE teams
• Identify project risks and develop solutions to keep projects on schedule and within budget
• Assist with preparation of proposals, cost estimates, and scope development
• Support business development efforts through responsive client service, technical expertise, and participation in project pursuits

Leadership & Mentorship

• Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior staff
• Direct work assignments and review deliverables prepared by junior engineers
• Share technical expertise and best practices across project teams
• Demonstrate leadership in technical specialization, client service, or project management

Additional Responsibilities

• Conduct site visits and field reviews, including work in mountain environments
• Coordinate with regulatory agencies and utility providers, as needed
• Prepare technical memoranda, reports, and client correspondence
• Maintain accurate documentation and project records

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Water Resources Engineering, or a closely related field
• Engineer III: Typically 4–10 years of relevant engineering experience
• Engineer IV: Typically 8–15 years of relevant engineering experience
• Professional Engineer (PE) license in Colorado or ability to obtain within a reasonable timeframe
• Experience in municipal and general civil engineering projects
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong organizational, time-management, and problem-solving skills
• Valid Colorado driver’s license
• Ability to conduct field work and site visits in varied terrain and weather conditions

Preferred Qualifications

• Current Colorado PE license
• Proficient with AutoCAD Civil 3D
• Experience with construction administration and oversight
• Knowledge of hydrology, hydraulics, and water resources modeling
• Experience coordinating with municipalities, special districts, and regulatory agencies
• Background in surveying, utilities, geotechnical, or construction
• Active participation in professional organizations and community involvement

Benefits

SGM offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision coverage; employer-paid short- and long-term disability and life insurance; HSA/FSA plans; 401(k) with employer match; parental leave; vacation and sick leave; paid holidays; and incentive compensation bonuses. Benefits may be prorated for part-time employees.

As an equal opportunity employer, SGM realizes that a diverse group of employees will bring a broader range of ideas and a stronger vision to the world of engineering, consulting, and surveying. We are an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, committed to diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under state or local law. CDOT Non-Discrimination in Employment Notice