Careers

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.

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.

Are you a creative, detail-oriented designer who loves blending nature with design? SJLA has opened a position for a skilled Landscape Designer/Drafter to join our team! If you have experience in engineering, surveying, architectural, or landscape design and are passionate about shaping outdoor spaces, we want to hear from you.

We are seeking a designer with at least 4 years of experience with AutoCAD who is open to working in a multidisciplinary firm. This role will involve a variety of projects, and the designer will be responsible for assisting the landscape architect in preparing plans, exhibits, and reports for conceptual drawings, design reviews, and construction drawings.

Qualifications:

• 3-4 years of AutoCAD drafting experience
• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook
• A solid communicator (written & verbal) who thrives in a collaborative team

Key Responsibilities:

• Development of Conceptual Landscape Designs: Collaborate with clients and the design team to create innovative and functional landscape concepts that integrate natural elements and meet client needs.
• Creation of Landscape Construction Documents: Prepare detailed construction documents, including site plans, planting plans, and construction details, ensuring accuracy and adherence to project specifications.
• Modification of Drawings Based on Feedback: Revise and refine design drawings in response to input from the Landscape Architect and other stakeholders to ensure the final design aligns with project goals.
• Assistance in Meetings and Public Presentations: Participate in client meetings and public presentations, effectively communicating design concepts and project progress to various audiences.
• Preparation of Graphics for Presentations: Develop compelling visual materials, such as renderings and diagrams, to support design presentations and convey ideas clearly.
• Navigation of Local Land Development Regulations: Understand and apply local land development regulations and zoning laws to ensure compliance in all design and construction activities.
• Preparation of Plans, Specifications, and Presentations: Compile comprehensive plans and specifications, and prepare presentations that effectively communicate design intent and project details.
• Coordination with Construction Teams: Work closely with construction teams to ensure the successful implementation of designs, providing guidance and addressing any on-site challenges.
• Generation of Plant Lists and Layout of Plant Materials: Select appropriate plant species and create detailed planting plans that consider aesthetics, environmental conditions, and maintenance requirements.
• Management of Client Needs During Design/Construction Phase: Serve as a point of contact for clients throughout the design and construction phases, addressing concerns and ensuring satisfaction.
• Completion of Take-offs or Construction Estimates: Perform quantity take-offs and prepare construction cost estimates to assist in project budgeting and resource allocation.

In addition to the core responsibilities outlined for the Landscape Designer/Drafter position at SJLA, the following bonus skills are highly desirable:

Bonus Skills:

• Digital Rendering Experience: Proficiency in software such as Photoshop, SketchUp, or Rhino to create realistic and detailed visualizations of landscape designs.
• Hand Drawing and Illustration: Ability to produce hand-drawn sketches, graphics, and illustrations to effectively communicate design concepts and ideas.

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 ready to take your design skills to the next level and be part of a team that values creativity, community, and collaboration—please send us your resume and any portfolio work you may want to share with us!

Equal Opportunity Employer:

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