Civil Engineer (Federal Construction – Secret Clearance) – Norfolk, VA
Are you a skilled Civil Engineer with a strong background in federal construction projects? We are seeking a detail-oriented and security-cleared Civil Engineer to support high-impact government infrastructure initiatives in Norfolk, VA. This is a unique opportunity to apply your engineering expertise in a mission-critical environment, ensuring the success of projects that directly serve national interests. If you thrive in a structured setting and are passionate about building infrastructure that matters, we want to hear from you.
Drive Mission-Critical Federal Projects in Norfolk
A leading federal contractor is hiring a Civil Engineer in Norfolk, VA, to contribute to large-scale construction projects that support U.S. government operations. This role requires a Secret Security Clearance and proven experience in federal or military construction environments. The ideal candidate will bring technical excellence, a solid understanding of government contracting standards, and the ability to manage multiple project phases from planning through execution. This is your chance to be part of infrastructure projects that have national significance.
Key Responsibilities of the Civil Engineer (Federal Construction – Secret Clearance)
Project Design & Planning:
Lead the development of comprehensive civil engineering plans and specifications for federal construction projects. Ensure all designs comply with applicable codes, military standards, and project-specific requirements.
Site Evaluation & Technical Analysis:
Conduct site assessments, geotechnical evaluations, and feasibility studies. Analyze data to inform construction methods, materials selection, and structural integrity, ensuring alignment with government regulations.
Construction Oversight:
Provide on-site engineering support during project execution, monitoring construction activities for compliance with design specifications, schedules, and safety standards. Address field issues and coordinate timely resolution of technical challenges.
Federal Contract Compliance:
Ensure strict adherence to federal contracting guidelines, including DoD and USACE standards. Review documentation, perform quality assurance checks, and maintain compliance with security protocols and classified project requirements.
Cost Estimation & Budget Management:
Support the preparation of cost estimates, budgeting, and resource allocation. Collaborate with project managers and procurement teams to control project costs while ensuring quality and timely delivery.
Cross-Functional Coordination:
Work closely with architects, contractors, subcontractors, and government personnel to ensure clear communication, efficient workflows, and successful project execution. Serve as the technical liaison for civil engineering matters.
Risk Mitigation & Safety Compliance:
Identify engineering risks and implement mitigation strategies. Uphold the highest safety standards across all project phases, conducting regular inspections and ensuring compliance with OSHA and federal safety regulations.
Documentation & Reporting:
Maintain accurate project documentation, including design drawings, calculations, daily logs, and progress reports. Provide regular updates to project leads and government clients on status, issues, and milestones.
Sustainability & Innovation:
Incorporate sustainable engineering practices and explore innovative design and construction techniques that reduce environmental impact and improve long-term infrastructure resilience.
Security & Clearance Responsibility:
Operate in accordance with federal security requirements and maintain the integrity of sensitive information. Adhere to all clearance-related protocols as a holder of an active Secret Security Clearance.
What the Client is Looking for in You
As a Civil Engineer working on federal construction projects in Norfolk, VA, the client seeks a highly skilled and dependable professional with a proven ability to deliver complex infrastructure projects under stringent federal standards and security requirements. You should be a detail-oriented engineer who excels at problem-solving and thrives in a collaborative, mission-driven environment.
Expertise in Federal Construction and Engineering Standards
The client is looking for an engineer with extensive experience in federal or military construction projects. You should be well-versed in government regulations, DoD and USACE construction protocols, and the technical specifications that govern secure infrastructure development. A demonstrated ability to interpret and apply complex engineering codes and standards is essential.
Proven Ability to Manage Complex Projects
You must have a strong track record of successfully managing multiple phases of civil engineering projects—from design and site evaluation to construction oversight and final delivery. The ideal candidate can effectively coordinate with diverse teams, manage timelines, and ensure that projects meet or exceed quality, safety, and budget expectations.
Active Secret Security Clearance and Commitment to Security Protocols
Given the nature of federal construction, the client requires candidates who currently hold an active Secret Security Clearance. You must demonstrate a strong commitment to maintaining confidentiality, following clearance protocols, and handling sensitive information with the utmost professionalism.
Strong Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills
The role demands an engineer who can analyze site conditions, assess risks, and develop innovative solutions to technical challenges. The client values professionals who bring critical thinking and technical rigor to their work, ensuring infrastructure integrity and sustainability.
Excellent Communication and Collaboration Skills
You should be an effective communicator able to convey technical information clearly to government stakeholders, contractors, and interdisciplinary teams. Strong interpersonal skills are critical for facilitating cooperation, resolving conflicts, and driving projects forward in a collaborative manner.
Commitment to Safety, Compliance, and Quality
The client expects you to uphold rigorous safety standards and federal compliance throughout every project phase. You must be proactive in identifying risks, implementing mitigation strategies, and ensuring adherence to OSHA and environmental regulations to protect personnel and assets.
Adaptability and Focus on Continuous Improvement
Federal construction environments are often dynamic and fast-paced. The ideal candidate embraces change, continuously seeks ways to improve processes, and stays current with emerging technologies and best practices in civil engineering.
FAQs About the Role – Civil Engineer (Federal Construction – Secret Clearance)
1. What are the primary responsibilities of the Civil Engineer in this role?
As a Civil Engineer supporting federal construction projects, you will be responsible for designing, planning, and overseeing infrastructure projects that meet strict government standards. Your duties include conducting site assessments, ensuring compliance with DoD and USACE guidelines, managing construction oversight, coordinating with stakeholders, and maintaining safety and security protocols throughout the project lifecycle.
2. What qualifications and experience are required for this position?
Candidates should have a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or a related field, with several years of experience in federal or military construction projects. An active Secret Security Clearance is mandatory. Familiarity with federal contracting standards, engineering codes, and construction management best practices is essential.
3. What security requirements are involved with this role?
This position requires an active Secret Security Clearance due to the sensitive nature of federal construction projects. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to adhere to strict confidentiality and security procedures to protect classified information and infrastructure.
4. What technical skills and knowledge are important for success?
Strong expertise in civil engineering design, site evaluation, geotechnical analysis, and construction oversight is critical. Knowledge of federal and military construction standards, safety regulations, cost estimation, and project management will enable you to deliver projects efficiently and to the highest quality standards.
5. What challenges might I face working on federal construction projects?
You may encounter challenges related to stringent regulatory compliance, managing multi-phase projects within tight timelines, coordinating among diverse teams, and adapting to evolving government requirements. Maintaining security clearance protocols while ensuring project progress is also a key consideration.
6. What is the work environment and culture like for this role?
You will be part of a mission-driven team focused on delivering critical infrastructure with precision and integrity. The environment values professionalism, collaboration, and adherence to safety and security standards. You’ll work closely with government agencies, contractors, and multidisciplinary teams in a structured yet dynamic setting.
What Remuneration Can You Expect from This Job?
As a Civil Engineer working on federal construction projects in Norfolk, VA, you can expect a competitive and comprehensive compensation package designed to attract skilled professionals with specialized expertise and security clearance. The remuneration typically includes:
1. Base Salary
The base salary for a civil engineer in federal construction varies depending on experience, education, and the complexity of projects handled. In the Norfolk, VA area, annual base salaries generally range from $75,000 to $110,000, with senior-level engineers or those with specialized skills potentially earning more.
2. Performance-Based Incentives
Many federal contractors offer performance-based bonuses tied to project milestones, quality standards, and overall contributions to successful project delivery. These bonuses typically range from 5% to 15% of the base salary and reward your ability to meet or exceed government contracting requirements.
3. Security Clearance Premium
Holding an active Secret Security Clearance often entitles candidates to a salary premium or additional allowances, recognizing the responsibility and trust associated with handling classified or sensitive information. This premium can add an additional 5% to 10% on top of your base salary.
4. Benefits Package
Federal contractors usually provide a robust benefits package, which may include:
Health, dental, and vision insurance plans
Retirement plans such as 401(k) with company matching
Paid time off including holidays, vacation, and sick leave
Life and disability insurance
Tuition reimbursement and professional development support
5. Relocation Assistance
If you are relocating to Norfolk, VA for this role, some employers offer relocation assistance packages. These may cover moving expenses, temporary housing, or travel allowances, designed to ease your transition to a new work location.
6. Overtime and Shift Differentials
Depending on project demands, there may be opportunities for overtime pay or shift differentials if your work involves extended hours or non-standard shifts. This can provide additional compensation beyond your base salary.
Total Compensation Potential
Taking into account base salary, performance bonuses, clearance premiums, and benefits, total compensation for a Civil Engineer in federal construction in Norfolk can range between $85,000 and $130,000 annually. Candidates with specialized experience, advanced degrees, or management responsibilities may earn at the higher end of this scale.
How to Apply
If you are a qualified Civil Engineer with federal construction experience and hold an active Secret Security Clearance, we encourage you to apply for this impactful role based in Norfolk, VA. This is a unique opportunity to contribute your engineering expertise to mission-critical infrastructure projects that support national interests and government operations.
To apply, please submit your resume along with a cover letter outlining your experience in federal or military construction, knowledge of government contracting standards, project management skills, and current security clearance status. Highlight your ability to manage complex civil engineering projects, ensure compliance with strict safety and security protocols, and collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams.
This position offers a rewarding career path where you will play a vital role in delivering secure, high-quality infrastructure that meets rigorous federal standards. Apply today to advance your engineering career in a challenging and mission-driven environment.
For additional information or to explore similar federal engineering opportunities, please visit our Federal Construction Cleared Talent Recruiters Page.
Tags:
Civil Engineer | Federal Construction Jobs | Secret Clearance Engineering | Government Infrastructure | Military Construction | Project Management | Engineering Compliance | Norfolk VA Engineering Jobs | Security Clearance Careers
