Principal Civil Engineer

Location: Houston, TX

Country: United States

Salary: $100K-$140K

only US citizens

Position Summary:
Are you ready to take a bold next step in your civil engineering career? We are seeking an entrepreneurial Civil Engineer to establish and grow our new Houston office. This is a rare opportunity to be the face of our client’s expansion into Texas — leading business development, building a high-performing team, and driving operational success in one of the fastest-growing markets in the country.
With the support of a respected, proven firm specializing in land development, you’ll have the resources to succeed while enjoying the autonomy to grow your own client base, lead major projects, and shape the future of the Houston office.

If you are a results-oriented leader with a passion for civil engineering, land development, and business growth, we want to hear from you!

About Our Client:
Based in Costa Mesa, California, our client is a trusted land development partner providing services in:

• Civil Engineering
• Dry Utilities
• Landscape Architecture
• Planning and Permitting

Since 2007, they have built a strong reputation for delivering high-ROI solutions with integrity, persistence, and a collaborative spirit. Their relationships with top-tier corporate clients, developers, and consultants are their greatest asset, and their expanding footprint across the U.S. is a testament to their success. They offer competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and a culture built on excellence, collaboration, and entrepreneurial drive.

Key Responsibilities:

Business Development & Client Acquisition:

• Leverage existing client relationships and industry network to generate business
• Identify and pursue new opportunities within the Houston market
• Build and maintain strong relationships with developers, municipalities, and other key stakeholders
• Lead proposal efforts, client presentations, and contract negotiations to win new projects

Office Leadership & Operations:

• Launch and lead the Houston office, including hiring, training, and managing staff
• Foster a high-performance, collaborative team culture
• Ensure efficient operations and maintain high standards of project delivery

Project & Technical Oversight:

• Manage land development projects from concept through completion
• Ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and meet all regulatory requirements
• Provide technical leadership and collaborate with architects, surveyors, and contractors

Financial & P&L Management:

• Oversee office financial performance, including budgeting, forecasting, and profitability
• Monitor project budgets, billing, and cash flow
• Drive strategic growth and long-term operational success

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or related field
• Professional Engineer (PE) license in Texas (or the ability to obtain quickly)
• 7+ years of civil engineering experience focused on land development
• Proven business development success and strong network in the Texas market
• Demonstrated leadership experience in office management or team leadership
• Deep understanding of local land development regulations and permitting processes
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills

Why Join Us?

• Unique opportunity to build and lead a new office for a respected, growing firm
• Competitive salary plus performance-based incentives
• Comprehensive support from a collaborative leadership team
• Significant growth potential as the Texas market expands

Featured Benefits:

• Medical insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match