Would you like to elevate your career in a collaborative, people-first environment while leading high-impact water and wastewater projects? J2 is expanding our Water/Wastewater group and is seeking an Associate to provide technical, managerial, and strategic leadership across a diverse portfolio of municipal, utility, and development-related water and wastewater projects. This role offers the opportunity to influence project delivery, mentor multidisciplinary teams, strengthen client relationships, and support the continued growth of the firm.
J2 is a multidisciplinary civil engineering, transportation, landscape architecture, and surveying firm that serves the Northern Virginia region. As a people-first organization, we have made it a top priority to invest in our employees, clients, and community. J2 is committed to fostering professional development through inclusive team bonding events, challenging and dynamic projects, and career road-mapping support. Drawing from our industry expertise and legacy of community impact, our talented and passionate team has helped build a portfolio of some of the highest-profile private and public developments across the DMV.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
As a Water/Wastewater Associate / Senior Associate, you will provide leadership across project execution, team development, client management, and business growth.
Key responsibilities include:
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Project & Design Leadership
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Provide technical oversight and leadership for water and wastewater engineering projects, including planning, preliminary design, design development, permitting, and construction support.
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Lead and oversee QA/QC of water/wastewater deliverables to ensure consistency with J2 standards, regulatory requirements, and client expectations.
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Guide the development and review of water distribution, sanitary sewer, pump stations, storage facilities, stormwater conveyance systems, and floodplain management projects.
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Oversee planning studies, hydraulic and hydrologic modeling, floodplain analysis, master planning, and regulatory compliance for municipal and private clients.
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Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, including VDOT, DEQ, and utility standards.
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Financial & Project Management
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Manage project financial performance, including scope, schedule, budget, forecasting, and profitability.
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Support workload planning and resource allocation to ensure projects are properly staffed and delivered efficiently.
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Assist with fee development, change management, and project planning in coordination with senior leadership.
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Team Leadership & Mentorship
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Build, mentor, and develop project teams by providing technical guidance, coaching, and performance feedback.
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Support staffing and team-building efforts, including identifying skill gaps and assisting with recruiting and onboarding.
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Promote a collaborative, people-first culture aligned with J2’s values and commitment to excellence.
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Client Relations & Business Development
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Serve as a trusted advisor and primary point of contact for clients, fostering long-term relationships and repeat business.
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Support marketing and business development efforts, including proposal development, pursuit strategy, and client interviews.
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Collaborate with Principals, Associates, and others to identify new opportunities and expand existing client relationships.
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Technical Oversight
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Oversee the production and review of technical drawings, hydraulic models, reports, and regulatory submittals.
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Lead permitting efforts with local jurisdictions and state agencies, ensuring timely approval and compliance.
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Stay current with evolving regulations, industry standards, and best practices in water/wastewater engineering.
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QUALIFICATIONS
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8-12+ years of progressively responsible experience in water and wastewater engineering, including leadership roles overseeing multidisciplinary teams.
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Bachelor of Science in Civil or Environmental Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred.
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Experience managing project financials, including budgeting, forecasting, scope management, and fee control.
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Proven ability to lead, mentor, and develop staff while supporting workload planning and team growth.
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Strong background in design oversight and QA/QC of water/wastewater engineering deliverables across all phases of project delivery.
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Experience working directly with municipal clients, reviewing agencies, and local jurisdictions, particularly in Northern Virginia.
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Involvement in marketing and business development, including proposal development and client-facing pursuits.
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Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate across disciplines and offices.
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Proficiency in AutoCAD, Civil 3D, Carlson, and hydraulic modeling software, with the ability to review, guide, and provide technical oversight of production work.
WHAT WE OFFER
J2 is committed to investing in our people and supporting long-term career growth. We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to promote balance, well-being, and professional development, including:
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Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
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Retirement fund with employer contributions
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Competitive paid time off and paid holidays
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Professional development and mentorship opportunities
Employment is contingent upon proof of valid authorization to work in the United States. Employees must maintain such authorization for the duration of their employment.