Job Description
A nationally recognized commercial general contractor is seeking a Traveling Project Engineer to support complex commercial construction projects across the United States.
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This role is ideal for an early-career construction professional with approximately 2–3 years of commercial construction experience who wants significant field exposure and a long-term path toward becoming a Project Manager or Superintendent.
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During the first 1–2 years, the Project Engineer will work onsite at projects across the country, gaining hands-on experience in project execution, subcontractor coordination, field operations, project controls, procurement, and closeout. After this field development period, the individual may transition back to the company's Chicago office or continue developing along a field leadership track.
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Candidates currently based in the Chicago area are strongly preferred, although relocation may be considered.
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Projects are exclusively commercial and may include large-scale big-box retail and other complex commercial developments involving numerous trades and subcontractors.
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Key Accountabilities
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- Support commercial construction projects from preconstruction through project closeout.
- Review and interpret contracts, construction drawings, specifications, and project requirements.
- Manage and track RFIs, submittals, meeting minutes, and project documentation.
- Assist with subcontractor buyout, procurement, and vendor coordination.
- Support project planning, budgeting, estimating, and scheduling activities.
- Review construction documents for constructability, quality, and compliance concerns.
- Coordinate communication between Project Managers, Superintendents, owners, architects, consultants, and subcontractors.
- Track project costs, budgets, forecasts, and financial reporting.
- Administer and process subcontractor change orders.
- Document project progress through photos, reporting, and field documentation.
- Participate in project meetings and track action items through completion.
- Monitor project progress and assist in resolving issues affecting scope, schedule, cost, or quality.
- Maintain accurate project records and document control.
- Support punch-list activities, warranties, closeout documentation, and final turnover.
- Promote company safety, quality, accountability, and ethical standards.
- Develop working knowledge of all major construction trades and how they interact throughout the project lifecycle.
- Build the technical and leadership foundation required for future advancement into Project Management or Field Operations leadership.
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Minimum Requirements
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- Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field.
- Approximately 2–3 years of commercial construction experience preferred.
- Prior experience with a commercial general contractor strongly preferred.
- Working knowledge of RFIs, submittals, change orders, procurement, and construction administration processes.
- Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and contracts.
- Experience coordinating with subcontractors, project teams, and design professionals.
- Familiarity with construction management software such as Procore, Bluebeam, Autodesk, or similar platforms.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
- Demonstrated initiative, professionalism, and problem-solving ability.
- Ability to learn quickly and operate effectively in a fast-paced construction environment.
- Willingness and ability to travel nationally and live near assigned project sites.
- Willingness to transition to a full-time, office-based role in Chicago following the initial field development period.
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Travel Expectations
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National travel is a core requirement of this position.
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The company currently operates in more than 30 states.
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Travel benefits include:
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- Project-based per diem covering lodging and meals
- Per diem based on project location
- Company-paid travel home every other weekend
- Monthly phone allowance
- Housing near the assigned project site
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Project Engineers do not receive a vehicle or fuel allowance and are expected to live within a reasonable commute of the project.
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Why Consider This Opportunity?
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This is a second-generation, family-owned commercial construction company with a strong emphasis on culture, mentorship, and long-term employee development.
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Employees have built careers with the organization spanning 10, 15, and 20+ years, and early-career professionals have the opportunity to learn directly from experienced Project Managers and Superintendents.
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For someone who wants to accelerate their development, work on complex commercial projects, gain national field experience, and build toward a long-term leadership role in construction, this is an excellent career opportunity.