Aviation Design Engineer

Why DOWL?

DOWL is a top-ranked, multi-disciplined consulting firm with over 60 years of experience in civil engineering and related services. Our in-house expertise spans Civil and Land Development, Construction-Related Services, Transportation and Structures, and Water and Environmental Services. At DOWL, you’re valued—we support your growth, offer great benefits, and foster a culture of integrity, professionalism, and teamwork.

Aviation (infrastructure)

Join our team and take your career to new heights in the exciting world of aviation infrastructure. Our aviation project capabilities span the full spectrum—from securing funding and early-stage planning for existing airports to the construction of brand-new facilities. We proudly serve a diverse range of clients, including municipal and general aviation airports, small to medium hub airports, airlines, and airport tenants. With a comprehensive suite of planning, design, and construction services, we deliver seamless, cost-effective project coordination that drives real impact in the communities we serve. Be part of a team that’s shaping the future of air travel, one project at a time.

Summary

This full-time position can be based in either our Bozeman or Helena office locations in Montana and contributes to impactful airport improvement and aviation-related projects across the country—from small general aviation fields to bustling international hubs. You’ll play a key role in shaping the future of aviation infrastructure through comprehensive design and planning services including AutoCAD Civil 3D production, technical research, environmental assessments, airport master plans, and more. As part of the team, you'll ensure all airport design and planning efforts are completed in strict accordance with applicable FAA regulations, requirements, orders, and advisory circulars. Additionally, you'll engage in public involvement and collaborative design efforts that extend beyond aviation to include broader transportation and community planning projects. If you’re passionate about precision, innovation, and making a lasting impact in the aviation and transportation industries, we invite you to bring your skills and enthusiasm to our dynamic, forward-thinking team.

Job Responsibilities and Duties

To be successful in this position, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Software

Team player who is able to follow on large, complex projects and lead a small team on simple tasks. Anticipates the needs of other technical disciplines and takes responsibility for results.

Project Delivery

Produces the following independently:

Strong understanding of scopes, schedules, and budgets. Demonstrates ability to predict and deliver individual tasks within a set level of effort. Consistently meets budget and schedule expectations on projects.

Industry Standards and Regulations

Proficiently select from and employ the following design codes:

Frequent client communications. Resolves issues on small projects. Attends client meetings. Consistently uses situationally appropriate communication tools (e.g., email versus phone versus in-person).

Other

Other duties as assigned.

Level of Work/Accountability

Performs moderate to advanced levels of technical work on larger and more complex projects as assigned. Operates with a moderate level of autonomy. Work is reviewed by others. May assist with some project management tasks.

Education and/or Experience

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this position, the employee is regularly required to sit. The employee is required to talk and hear. The employee is regularly required to stand, walk, and use hands. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this position include close vision and ability to adjust focus. Position may include periodic site visits and inspection work on project sites.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.

For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.