Lead Civil Designer - job 1 of 2

As a Lead Civil Designer at Olsson, your primary responsibilities include overseeing the quality assurance processes, conducting senior-level design reviews, and directing the project team on technical aspects. You'll also serve as a consultative resource for clients and may assist in preparing project studies or acquiring data. Your role will require strong communication and collaboration skills, ensuring that the team's efforts align with the high standards Olsson upholds.

To apply for the Lead Civil Designer role at Olsson, you should possess an Associate Degree in Drafting along with 10 years of experience using CAD software, particularly AutoCAD Civil 3D. Project management skills for medium-sized projects and the ability to work collaboratively with others are also essential to be a successful candidate.

Yes, at Olsson, we understand the importance of work-life balance, and as a Lead Civil Designer, you will have flexible work options. Whether you prefer to work remotely, follow a hybrid schedule, or be based out of one of our offices, we are committed to supporting your working preferences while ensuring that you remain connected with the team and our projects.

In the role of Lead Civil Designer at Olsson, you'll work on a variety of projects, including mixed-use developments, commercial and residential land development, industrial sites, sports facilities, and school projects. Your diverse expertise will contribute vastly to improving communities through impactful design.

Olsson offers a comprehensive benefits package for its employees, including healthcare, vision and dental coverage, paid time off, and a robust 401(k) plan with excellent matching. Additionally, after your first year with the company, you will have the opportunity to become an owner through our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), providing you with an additional stake in the company's success.

When answering this question, focus on your specific experience with CAD software like AutoCAD Civil 3D. Discuss how you've utilized these skills in past projects, particularly emphasizing how your technical proficiency has led to efficient project design and successful deliverables.

Discuss your approach to quality assurance, emphasizing any established processes you follow. You might mention peer reviews, checklists, and regular team check-ins to ensure all project components meet high standards before final delivery.

Share specific strategies you implement to keep projects on track, like utilizing project management software, setting clear milestones, and fostering open communication with team members from different disciplines to ensure alignment and timely updates.

Select a specific example that demonstrates both your problem-solving skills and your technical expertise. Detail the issue, the steps you took, and the outcome, showcasing your ability to handle challenges effectively as a Lead Civil Designer.

Discuss qualities such as strong communication skills, leadership, attention to detail, technical expertise, and the ability to work collaboratively. Illustrate how these traits have contributed to your success in similar roles.

Emphasize your commitment to continuous learning by mentioning webinars, workshops, professional organizations, or relevant publications you follow. This shows your dedication to remaining at the forefront of the industry, which is vital for a Lead Civil Designer.

Share instances where you successfully engaged with clients, addressing their concerns and ensuring they were satisfied with the project's direction. Highlight your communication skills and ability to translate complex technical language into understandable terms.

Provide details on how you have guided less experienced team members, whether through formal mentorship programs or by offering informal advice on specific projects. Focus on fostering their skills while building team cohesion.

Share your techniques for promoting efficiency, such as using CAD templates, collaborating on best practices, or implementing time-saving tools. Illustrate how these methods have successfully enhanced productivity in past projects.

Reflect on Olsson's commitment to improving communities and explain why you are drawn to the company’s values and its entrepreneurial spirit. Talk about how your personal and professional goals align with Olsson's mission and what excites you about this opportunity.