Job SummaryThe Principal Project Manager leads the execution of complex, key multidisciplinary engineering consulting projects from inception through completion. This senior role is responsible for strategic planning, client engagement, and cross-functional coordination to ensure projects are delivered on time, within scope, and aligned with client expectations. The Principal Project Manager serves as a key liaison between clients and internal teams, driving technical excellence, operational efficiency, and business growth.Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Manage large-scale engineering consulting projects across sectors such as infrastructure, environmental, energy, or transportation. Oversee all phases including planning, design, permitting, and implementation.
Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, ensuring satisfaction, managing expectations, and identifying opportunities for future collaboration.
Collaborate with engineering discipline leads to ensure technical quality, regulatory compliance, and integration of deliverables across specialties.
Develop and manage project budgets, schedules, and resource plans. Monitor performance and implement corrective actions as needed.
Identify project risks and develop mitigation strategies. Resolve issues promptly to maintain project momentum and client confidence.
Lead cross-functional project teams, providing guidance, coaching, and performance feedback. Foster a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
Contribute to proposal development, scope definition, and pricing strategies. Support business development efforts through client engagement and thought leadership.
Ensure adherence to company standards, client requirements, and industry regulations. Champion quality assurance and continuous improvement initiatives.
Prepare and present project status reports, dashboards, and executive briefings. Communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders.
As applicable engage engineering or technical expertise for assigned projects. Ensure that all projects have necessary documentation completed, including written proposals, contracts, and Acknowledgement of Services, signed or documented as indicated by company policy.
Monitor project budget monthly (at a minimum) and prepare monthly invoices for review.
Maintain project file including contract, reports, invoicing, and other project documentation.
Maintain client communication for the project, including any changes to project services or budget.
Actively communicate project risks and concerns to stakeholders.
Actively market AET services to new and existing business contacts.
Assist in the development and implementation of strategic growth plans for department.
Coordinate with other AET staff with the goal of increasing efficiency, productivity and communication.
Represent AET by presenting ideas, solutions, and innovative advancements to clients, peer groups, public audiences, and regulatory agencies and in professional publications.
Thorough understanding of project contracts and commitments to be satisfied by AET’s work scope
Qualifications and Education Requirements
Bachelor’s degree in appropriate field or an equivalent amount of relevant experience may be considered in lieu of an applicable degree
8 years of experience in progressively more complex and difficult roles
Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.
Maintain compliance with DOT driver regulations if required for position.
Maintain appropriate physicals if required for position.
Excellent communication skills including the ability to present ideas to large groups in a clear and compelling manner.
Ability to interact effectively with a wide variety of people, work effectively within project teams, resolve issues and problems in a constructive manner, and work independently in the field.
Experience using personal computer software, especially Microsoft Office. ERP experience
Effective communication skills and attention to detail to keep all project stakeholders aligned through clear and constructive communication.
Demonstrated skill in cultivating and managing client and internal relationships to foster a positive working environment, to develop strong teamwork, and to resolve issues and problems in a positive manner.
Pay TransparencyBase compensation is expected to be in the range of $101,000- $140,000 annually based on skill set and experience. AET offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health benefits, insurance, Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), long term savings, paid time off, and professional development opportunities. The selected candidate must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. without requiring visa sponsorship now or in the future.Work EnvironmentThis job primarily operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, and filing cabinets. This position will occasionally be required to operate in a field environment.Physical DemandsThe physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to sit; stand; walk; use hands or fingers, handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.Other DutiesPlease note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.Reasonable accommodation or workable solutions may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.Notice to Third Party Agencies: AET does not accept unsolicited resumes from third party recruiting firms. Absent a signed Service Agreement by AET’s Chief People Officer (CPO), AET reserves the right to pursue and hire these candidates without financial obligation to recruiters or agencies.
