Careers

SJLA is a full-service civil engineering, land surveying, land planning and landscape architecture firm, located in the heart of charming downtown Petaluma. We work with leading architects, prominent developers, and other top professionals to create iconic spaces that contribute to the beauty of our area and meet the needs of our growing community. Our projects range from neighborhood grading plans to major subdivisions, commercial facilities, and public improvements.

 

By joining our team, you will be working with other caring and supportive people who are passionate about what they do. And you’ll become a key part of our project development process, creating work that is essential to the shared success of our thriving organization.

 

A full-time career with SJLA comes with paid vacations & holidays, health & dental insurance, a company matching retirement plan, flexible spending account and professional development opportunities. Salaries are commensurate with level of experience.

 

Currently, we have the following open positions:

Civil Designer Technician

Civil Designer Technician

Our collaborative team values excellence, creativity, and a supportive work environment where individual expertise is celebrated. Recent legislative changes have created exciting opportunities, and we’re actively engaged in a diverse range of projects—and we want you to be a key part of our continued success.

Position Overview:

We are seeking a highly skilled Civil Designer Technician to join our dynamic team. The ideal candidate will possess a strong foundation in civil site design, a keen eye for detail, and a proven ability to contribute to impactful projects. This is an exceptional opportunity to collaborate with experienced professionals, develop your skills, and make a real difference in the North Bay community.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Site Planning & Design: Develop comprehensive and innovative site plans for diverse projects (residential, commercial, mixed-use), ensuring meticulous compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations.
  • Collaborative Development: Partner closely with engineers, architects, and planners to create efficient and sustainable site layouts, grading plans, drainage systems, and utility plans. Your input will be valued and your ideas will be heard.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Ensure designs flawlessly meet California zoning laws, environmental standards, and accessibility requirements. Your expertise in navigating the regulatory landscape will be essential.
  • Technical Proficiency: Utilize AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and other design software to produce precise and visually appealing drawings and models.
  • Project Coordination: Manage multiple projects concurrently, maintaining consistently high-quality standards while meeting deadlines. Your organizational skills and attention to detail will ensure project success.
  • Client Interaction: Engage directly with clients to thoroughly understand project needs, provide regular updates, and proactively incorporate feedback.
  • Site Analysis: Conduct thorough site visits to accurately assess conditions, gather critical data, and skillfully address potential design challenges.
  • Documentation & Reporting: Prepare comprehensive reports, detailed project documentation, and polished presentation materials for internal use and client delivery.

Qualifications:

  • Education: Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or a related field (preferred but not required). Equivalent experience and demonstrable skills will be strongly considered.
  • Experience: Minimum of three years of experience in civil design, with a proven focus on successful site plan development. Knowledge of California-specific regulations is highly valued.
  • Technical Skills: Proficiency in AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and other relevant design tools is crucial. Experience with GIS or site planning software is a significant advantage.
  • Regulatory Knowledge: A thorough understanding of California land use laws, environmental considerations, and best practices in site development is essential.
  • Communication: Exceptional verbal and written communication skills are vital for effective collaboration with clients, team members, and stakeholders.
  • Problem-Solving: A proven analytical mindset with the ability to identify challenges creatively and develop innovative solutions is key.
  • Attention to Detail: A meticulous approach to work, ensuring accuracy and quality in all aspects of the project.

Why Join SJLA?

We offer a supportive and collaborative work environment where your expertise is valued, and your professional growth is consistently encouraged. We are proud of our team-oriented culture and are committed to providing our employees with the resources they need to excel.

Benefits Include:

  • Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
  • Retirement plan with company matching contributions.
  • Paid time off and holidays.
  • Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
  • Engaging and supportive team-oriented work culture.

How to Apply:

If you’re eager to contribute to impactful projects and grow your career with a dynamic and forward-thinking firm, we encourage you to apply!

Submit your resume, cover letter, and portfolio to info@sjla.com with the subject line: “Civil Designer Technician Application.”

Equal Opportunity Employer:

SJLA is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Civil Engineer – Site Design Specialist

Civil Engineer – Site Design Specialist

We’re known for our collaborative, supportive, and creative work environment, where passion, perspective, and commitment to excellence defines our approach. We work with leading architects, developers, and other top professionals on projects ranging from small-scale grading plans to major subdivisions and public improvements. Our team enjoys a positive work atmosphere, and we take pride in the lasting impact our projects have on our community.

Job Overview:

We are seeking a motivated and experienced Design Civil Engineer to join our dynamic team. The ideal candidate will have 2-5 years of experience in civil engineering design, with a strong background in site development, grading, drainage, utilities, and roadway design using AutoCAD Civil 3D. This role offers the opportunity to work on a diverse portfolio of projects and contribute meaningfully to the success of a thriving organization.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Develop site layout, grading, drainage, stormwater management, and utility plans using Civil 3D.
  • Prepare accurate and detailed design calculations, reports, and construction documents that meet all local and state regulations.
  • Collaborate seamlessly with project managers, architects, surveyors, and other stakeholders.
  • Perform comprehensive hydrology and hydraulic analyses for stormwater management.
  • Secure necessary permits and approvals from regulatory agencies.
  • Conduct thorough site visits and field inspections to support design and construction activities.
  • Ensure full compliance with all local codes, standards, and best practices in civil engineering.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or a related field.
  • 2-5 years of experience in civil engineering design.
  • Proficiency in AutoCAD Civil 3D (required).
  • Experience with grading, drainage, and utility design.
  • Solid understanding of hydrology, hydraulics, and stormwater management principles.
  • Familiarity with local and state permitting processes in California.
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
  • EIT certification required; PE license (or in progress) is a plus.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with stormwater modeling software (e.g., HydroCAD, SWMM).
  • Exposure to transportation, roadway, or land development projects.
  • Understanding of CEQA and environmental permitting in California.

Benefits:

  • Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
  • Retirement plan with company matching contributions.
  • Paid time off and holidays.
  • Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
  • Engaging and supportive team-oriented work culture.

How to Apply:

If you’re eager to contribute to impactful projects and grow your career with a dynamic and forward-thinking firm, we encourage you to apply!

Submit your resume, cover letter, and portfolio to info@sjla.com with the subject line: “Civil Engineer – Site Design Specialist.”

Equal Opportunity Employer:

SJLA is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.