Land Development Engineer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an era of rapid urbanization, the role of land development engineers has become increasingly critical.

As landscapes transform and populations grow, the need for skilled professionals who can plan, execute, and maintain our physical infrastructure is more urgent than ever.

But what exactly does a land development engineer do?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to grasp the scope of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the realm of land development engineering,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we introduce a customizable land development engineer job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Land Development Engineer Duties and Responsibilities

Land Development Engineers are responsible for planning, designing, and overseeing construction and maintenance of building structures, and facilities, such as roads, railroads, airports, bridges, harbors, channels, dams, irrigation projects, pipelines, power plants, and water and sewage systems.

They typically have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Collaborating with architects, builders, and other engineers to determine the best methods for land development
• Designing and implementing plans for infrastructure, including roads, water supply, sewage and stormwater management
• Creating proposals and presenting them to clients and stakeholders
• Conducting site inspections to ensure projects are progressing as planned and adhering to legal guidelines
• Preparing and presenting detailed land development reports
• Using computer-aided design (CAD) and other tools to create detailed plans and blueprints
• Obtaining necessary permits and ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal regulations
• Assessing the environmental impact of land development and implementing strategies to mitigate potential issues
• Coordinating with contractors and construction teams to ensure projects are completed on time and within budget
• Addressing issues or changes in plans as they arise during construction

 

Land Development Engineer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Land Development Engineer to support the planning and execution of land development projects.

The Land Development Engineer’s responsibilities include designing and executing site plans, liaising with relevant stakeholders, and ensuring compliance with environmental and zoning regulations.

The ideal candidate has a strong background in Civil Engineering and a proven track record in land development projects.

The Land Development Engineer should be innovative and able to translate land development concepts into functional and sustainable infrastructure.

 

Responsibilities

• Design and execute site plans for various land development projects
• Work closely with architects, developers, and project managers to understand project requirements
• Prepare and present technical reports and feasibility studies
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and zoning laws
• Conduct soil tests, hydrological analysis, and other relevant studies
• Coordinate with regulatory bodies and obtain necessary approvals for projects
• Manage and supervise construction activities on-site
• Perform risk assessments and propose mitigation strategies
• Ensure projects are completed on time and within budget

 

Qualifications

• A Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or a related field
• Proven work experience as a Land Development Engineer or similar role
• Extensive knowledge of civil engineering principles and land development best practices
• Proficiency with CAD software and other engineering tools
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent project management skills
• Professional Engineer (PE) license is preferred
• Excellent communication and team coordination skills

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Land Development Engineer
• Work Environment: Office and field settings. Travel may be required for site visits and meetings.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Engineering.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $80,000 minimum to $120,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Land Development Engineer Do?

Land Development Engineers primarily work for construction companies, engineering firms, and government organizations.

They may also work independently as consultants.

Their main role is to ensure that land development projects are designed and built efficiently, safely, and sustainably.

They work closely with architects, civil engineers, urban planners, and other professionals to develop land use plans and infrastructure designs.

A Land Development Engineer is responsible for planning, designing, and overseeing construction of infrastructure such as roads, water supply systems, sewage systems, and other utility services in new or redeveloped areas.

They analyze land characteristics, evaluate the feasibility of projects, and determine the best ways to utilize the available space.

They also conduct environmental impact assessments, ensuring that the project complies with all local, state, and federal regulations.

Another key aspect of their job is to liaise with clients, contractors, stakeholders and regulatory authorities to manage and coordinate the implementation of projects.

They are also responsible for preparing and reviewing engineering drawings, specifications, and cost estimates.

The role of a Land Development Engineer often involves problem solving, as they need to come up with innovative solutions to overcome challenges such as difficult terrain, limited resources, or strict environmental regulations.

They are also tasked with ensuring that the development projects they oversee are completed on time and within budget.

 

Land Development Engineer Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Land Development Engineer should have the skills and qualifications necessary to plan, design, and oversee construction of building projects for land development, such as:

• Expertise in civil engineering principles and practices to design and oversee various land development projects such as residential subdivisions, commercial sites, and road constructions.
• Exceptional understanding of land planning, grading, utility design, and stormwater management to ensure compliance with zoning laws and environmental regulations.
• Excellent problem-solving skills to identify potential challenges or issues related to the land development process and devise effective solutions.
• Strong project management and organizational skills to manage multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring that projects are completed on schedule and within budget.
• Advanced proficiency in software applications related to engineering, such as AutoCAD and Civil 3D, for designing and modeling land development projects.
• Excellent communication skills to collaborate with various stakeholders, including clients, contractors, city planners, and government agencies, ensuring that all involved parties are kept informed about project progress.
• An understanding of environmental impact assessments and land surveys to assess the suitability of locations for construction projects.
• Strong understanding of municipal permitting processes and codes to ensure all project plans are in compliance with regulations.

 

Land Development Engineer Experience Requirements

Entry-level Land Development Engineers may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often acquired through internships or part-time roles in land development or civil engineering firms.

This experience might include working on infrastructure projects, site planning, or environmental assessments.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often expand their technical skills and knowledge in entry-level Land Development Engineer or Civil Engineer roles.

They may have additional experience in areas such as permit acquisition, designing water and sewage systems, land grading, or mapping and modeling land features.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are likely to have some leadership experience, having overseen teams on larger development projects.

At this stage, they may be ready for a project management or supervisory role within a land development firm or engineering consultancy.

It is also common for experienced Land Development Engineers to have proficiency in various industry-specific software like AutoCAD, Civil 3D, or GIS systems, which they may have gained through hands-on project work.

In addition to direct work experience, many employers also value professional certification, such as the Professional Engineer (PE) license, which requires a degree in engineering, relevant work experience and passing a series of examinations.

 

Land Development Engineer Education and Training Requirements

Land Development Engineers typically require a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or a closely related field.

These programs train engineers in a variety of areas, including surveying, environmental engineering, geology, and construction management, providing them with the knowledge and skills needed to plan and design land development projects.

In addition to academic qualifications, Land Development Engineers often require licensure.

To become licensed, engineers must have graduated from an ABET-accredited program, accumulated four years of relevant work experience, and passed two exams administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES).

It’s not uncommon for Land Development Engineers to pursue a master’s degree or further professional qualifications, particularly if they are interested in specializing in a specific area of land development or aiming for management positions.

Continuing education and staying up-to-date with the latest technology and regulations in the field is also necessary for career growth in this profession.

Many also gain certification in a specialized area such as water resources, transportation, or geotechnical engineering to demonstrate their expertise and increase their career opportunities.

Strong practical experience, understanding of regulatory guidelines, and proven project management skills are also highly desirable in this profession.

 

Land Development Engineer Salary Expectations

A Land Development Engineer earns an average salary of $79,340 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings can significantly vary depending on factors such as the level of experience, the area of specialization, geographical location, and the employing company.

 

Land Development Engineer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Land Development Engineer need?

Land Development Engineers need a solid understanding of civil engineering principles, particularly as they relate to land development.

They should have excellent problem-solving skills, as they may often need to adapt plans to meet certain site conditions or restrictions.

They should also have strong communication and teamwork skills, as their role often involves coordinating with various stakeholders, including clients, contractors, and city officials.

 

Do Land Development Engineers need a degree?

Yes, a Land Development Engineer generally needs at least a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or a related field.

Many employers may also prefer candidates who have a Professional Engineer (PE) license, which requires additional education, work experience, and passing a rigorous exam.

 

What should you look for in a Land Development Engineer’s resume?

In a Land Development Engineer’s resume, look for a degree in civil engineering or a related field and any relevant licensure, such as a PE license.

Experience in land development projects, including project management and site design, is also crucial.

Knowledge of local and regional land development regulations is a significant advantage, as is experience with CAD software and other engineering technologies.

 

What qualities make a good Land Development Engineer?

A good Land Development Engineer is creative and innovative, able to design practical solutions to complex challenges.

They are detail-oriented, ensuring that every aspect of a project meets regulatory standards and client specifications.

They also have strong interpersonal skills, allowing them to work effectively with a diverse team and clearly communicate their plans and ideas.

A good Land Development Engineer is also committed to continual learning, as new technologies and practices are continually emerging in the field.

 

What is the role of a Land Development Engineer in urban planning?

Land Development Engineers play a key role in urban planning by designing the layout of new subdivisions, commercial developments, and other projects.

They work closely with urban planners to ensure that these projects meet the community’s needs while also adhering to environmental and zoning regulations.

This can involve designing road and utility layouts, stormwater management systems, and other critical infrastructure.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we unraveled the intricate details of what it truly means to be a land development engineer.

Surprising, isn’t it?

It’s not just about drafting blueprints.

It’s about shaping the terrain of tomorrow, one development project at a time.

With our comprehensive land development engineer job description template and real-world examples, you’re prepared to leap forward.

But why halt the momentum?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step for meticulously crafted job listings or refining your resume to standout perfection.

Remember:

Every blueprint contributes to the larger landscape.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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