Job Title: Senior Construction Engineer / Senior Preproduction EngineerJob Description
The Senior Construction Engineer (Senior Preproduction Engineer) leads the translation of construction information into accurate, buildable production documents while overseeing the installation of basic electrical power, lighting, and low-voltage systems across multiple projects. This role designs and develops value-added technical pricing and design solutions from initial concept through completion of detailed drawings, and provides day-to-day guidance and mentoring to junior engineers. The position combines strong electrical systems expertise, advanced CAD/BIM skills, and project coordination capabilities to ensure projects are delivered safely, efficiently, and in alignment with design and budget requirements.
Responsibilities
Collaborate closely with Preproduction leadership, Project Managers, and Estimating team members to prioritize project needs and translate construction information into the production process.
Design and develop value-added technical pricing and design solutions from concept through completion of detailed construction drawings.
Oversee all onsite project activities related to the installation of basic electrical power, lighting, and low-voltage systems.
Review, interpret, and apply information from construction blueprints and specifications to ensure accurate design, layout, and installation.
Utilize AutoCAD and Revit (including Revit 360 and Inventor in a BIM platform) to create, update, and manage detailed design models and drawings.
Develop and maintain accurate bills of materials to support procurement, fabrication, and installation activities.
Track project budgets and costs, monitoring variances and supporting the team in maintaining financial control over assigned projects.
Use Smartsheet, Excel, and ACC (Autodesk Construction Cloud) to manage project communication, schedules, and documentation.
Provide technical guidance, direction, and mentoring to lower-level engineers, supporting their professional development and ensuring high-quality work output.
Coordinate with internal and external stakeholders to resolve design issues, clarify technical details, and support smooth project execution.
Ensure that all electrical and low-voltage designs and installations align with applicable codes, standards, and best practices.
Support continuous improvement by identifying opportunities to enhance design efficiency, constructability, and value for clients.
Participate in ongoing training and apply new tools, technologies, and methods to improve project delivery.
Travel as needed to various worksites for training, project coordination, and occasional site visits.
Essential Skills
Minimum of 5+ years of experience working with electrical systems, either in the field or in an office-based design or coordination role.
Strong understanding of basic electrical power, lighting, and low-voltage systems, gained through education, hands-on field work, or design experience.
Proficiency in reading and interpreting blueprints and construction documents.
Ability to oversee and coordinate multiple projects involving electrical and low-voltage system installations.
Proficiency with AutoCAD for creating and modifying detailed technical drawings.
Proficiency with Revit and Revit 360 Inventor within a BIM platform for 3D modeling and coordination.
Experience developing and managing bills of materials for electrical and low-voltage projects.
Experience with budget tracking and basic project cost control.
Working knowledge of Smartsheet and Microsoft Excel for project tracking, communication, and reporting.
Familiarity with ACC (Autodesk Construction Cloud) or similar platforms for project communication and document management.
Demonstrated ability to lead, guide, and mentor junior or lower-level engineers.
Strong communication skills to collaborate effectively with project managers, estimators, and cross-functional teams.
Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and manage time effectively across multiple projects.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
Background as an experienced electrician who is interested in transitioning from field work into an office-based engineering or preconstruction role.
Comfort working in both office and field-adjacent environments, including occasional visits to active worksites.
Interest in ongoing training and professional development to stay current with tools, codes, and best practices.
Attention to detail and a commitment to producing accurate, constructible drawings and documentation.
A collaborative mindset with the ability to support cross-functional teams and contribute to a positive project culture.
Motivation to take advantage of overtime opportunities and merit-based pay increases when available.
Work Environment
Work is performed primarily in a standard office environment with exposure to moderate noise levels from high-speed computer printers and other peripherals. The role involves frequent use of personal computer equipment for extended periods, including AutoCAD, Revit, BIM tools, Smartsheet, Excel, and ACC for design and project communication. At times, work may require visits to manufacturing or construction areas with moderate noise from saws, drills, grinders, forklifts, and other power tools. Typical work hours fall between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, with flexibility to work outside these hours as needed to meet business demands. Light travel, approximately 10-25%, is required, primarily for training and occasional visits to other worksites. The organization offers hourly compensation with the opportunity for overtime pay, merit-based pay increases, and ongoing training to support professional growth.
Job Type & Location
This is a Permanent position based out of Opelika, AL.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $83200.00 - $104000.00/yr.
Medical, dental, and vision benefits - Paid holidays - Paid time off - 401(k) - Life insurance
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Opelika,AL.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on May 8, 2026.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I is embedded into our culture through:
Hiring diverse talent
Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection
Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes
Ensuring growth opportunities for our people
Actalent is an equal opportunity employer.
About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services. For more than 40 years, we've helped visionary companies advance their goals. Headquartered in the United States, our teams span 150 offices across North America, EMEA, and APAC-with four delivery centers in India led by 1,000+ extraordinary employees who connect their passion with purpose every day.
Our Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai delivery centers are hubs of engineering expertise, with core capabilities in mechanical and electrical engineering, systems and software, and manufacturing engineering. Our teams deliver work across multiple industries including transportation, consumer and industrial products, and life sciences. We serve more than 4,500 clients, including many Fortune 500 brands. Learn more about how we can work together at actalentservices.com.