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CDM Smith

Full-service engineering and construction firm

Senior Human Resources Business Partner

Full-TimeDeadline 9/2/27
$94.5k - $156k+ Discretionary bonus
Senior
Bachelor's
Pittsburgh, PA, USA
HybridTravel of 10% or less may be required.
People & HRHR Generalist & Employee Relations
No H1B Sponsorship

About the job

Requirements
  • A bachelor's degree is required, though equivalent additional directly related experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
  • At least 5 years of related experience.
  • Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage moderately complex projects to a successful outcome.
  • Ability to build trusted relationships and influence leaders at all levels of the organization.
  • Business acumen and the ability to align people strategies with operational and business objectives.
  • Ability to use workforce data and business insights to identify trends and inform decision-making.
  • Ability to work in a team environment.
  • Attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
  • Judgment, discretion, and problem-solving skills when handling sensitive or complex employee matters.
  • Written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to tailor messaging to varied audiences.
  • Intermediate-to-advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
Responsibilities
  • Provide strategic HR leadership and guidance to Unit Presidents, leadership teams, managers, and employees across North America, aligning with enterprise HR strategies, policies, and programs.
  • Administer HR functions including employment, compensation, benefits, employee relations, engagement, workforce and succession planning, employee development, performance management, organizational development, HRIS, recruitment support, relocation, and immigration.
  • Identify emerging workforce trends and organizational challenges, and partner with business leaders to develop practical, business-focused solutions.
  • Support workforce reviews, talent planning, and succession discussions; help leaders identify high-potential talent and build development plans for critical roles.
  • Use workforce data, talent metrics, engagement results, and other people insights to identify trends, assess organizational health, and support business decisions.
  • Advise on employee relations matters, managing conflict resolution, disciplinary actions, grievances, and workplace concerns while ensuring compliance and minimizing organizational risk.
  • Provide guidance and support for Canadian employment programs, coordinating with Payroll, Benefits, and other HR teams on matters affecting Canadian employees.
  • Partner with Corporate HR teams and business leaders to address organizational challenges and deliver integrated HR solutions.
  • Advise managers on performance management, employee development, coaching, and feedback strategies that support employee growth and business performance.
  • Lead or contribute to HR initiatives, projects, and program development efforts that drive organizational effectiveness and improve employee experience.
  • Perform additional responsibilities as needed to support the HR function and broader organization.
Desired Qualifications
  • At least 2 years of experience as an HR Business Partner or HR Generalist, preferably in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction industry.
  • Current SHRM-CP or PHR credential.
  • Experience supporting senior leaders or executive-level business partners.
  • Experience with workforce planning, succession planning, organizational development, and change management initiatives.
  • Experience using workforce metrics, people analytics, and talent data to develop recommendations and support business decisions.
  • Familiarity with Canadian employment practices and programs.
  • Ability to travel on a varying basis within the United States.

About the company

CDM Smith is a full-service engineering and construction firm that serves public and private clients worldwide with solutions in water, environment, transportation, and energy. Its work covers the entire project life cycle—from planning and design to construction and ongoing management—through integrated teams of engineers, scientists, and construction professionals. The company distinguishes itself by delivering multi-disciplinary, end-to-end projects across major infrastructure sectors and focusing on long-lasting impacts and enduring value for clients. Its goal is to shape the present by meeting evolving needs with practical, reliable infrastructure solutions that stand the test of time.

Company Size

5,001-10,000

Company Stage

N/A

Total Funding

N/A

Headquarters

Cambridge, Massachusetts

Founded

1947

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Simplify Jobs

Simplify's Take

What believers are saying

  • Houston's 360 MGD expansion and PFAS planning create multi-year backlog through 2028.
  • Daniel Clark became CFO on September 17, 2026, strengthening finance and governance.
  • Teri Myers' August 2026 R&D leadership upgrade monetizes PFAS research faster.

What critics are saying

  • A 2020 Navy False Claims Act settlement still stains federal trust and procurement credibility.
  • CDM Smith v. Reed Barton opened June 17, 2026, signaling active trade-secret conflict.
  • EWPP runs through 2028, concentrating revenue on one politically exposed Houston megaproject.

What makes CDM Smith unique

  • Bellevue lab expansion on August 5, 2026 deepens PFAS pilot-testing capabilities.
  • Houston picked CDM Smith for $145 million EWPP design on July 16, 2026.
  • September 2026 hires in data centers and reuse broaden CDM Smith beyond water.

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Benefits

Flexible Work Hours

Hybrid Work Options

Company News

Associated Press
Sep 17th, 2026
CDM Smith appoints Daniel Clark as chief financial officer

CDM Smith has appointed Daniel Clark as its new chief financial officer. Clark succeeds Thierry Desmaris, who is retiring after more than 10 years with the firm. Clark brings over 20 years of experience in the architecture, engineering and construction industry. He began his career as an engineer before moving into finance. He holds an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Engineering from California Polytechnic State University. As CFO, Clark will lead the firm's financial strategy, enterprise risk management and governance. CDM Smith is a privately owned engineering and construction firm specialising in water, environment, transportation, energy and facilities projects.

GlobeNewswire
Sep 17th, 2026
CDM Smith names new chief financial officer Daniel Clark.

CDM Smith names new chief financial officer Daniel Clark. September 17, 2026 13:59 ET | Source: CDM Smith BOSTON, Sept. 17, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) - CDM Smith is pleased to announce our new chief financial officer, Daniel "Dan" Clark. Clark succeeds Thierry Desmaris, who will retire after more than a decade of exceptional service to the firm. As CFO, Clark will lead the firm's financial strategy, enterprise risk management, and governance stewardship while helping advance CDM Smith's long-term growth, direct employee ownership culture, and strategic vision. Clark brings more than 20 years of experience in the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industry, with a strong track record of operational excellence and financial leadership. Before transitioning into finance, Clark began his career as an engineer, providing him with firsthand insight into project delivery, technical excellence and the unique dynamics of engineering/construction-driven organizations. "CDM Smith has built a reputation for technical excellence, innovation and client service, and I'm proud to be a part of that tradition. That work continues with investing in our people, supporting our clients and creating lasting value for our employee-owners and the communities we serve," said Clark. Clark holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Engineering from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. "On behalf of our Board of Directors and employee-owners, I want to thank Thierry for his outstanding leadership and lasting contributions to CDM Smith over the past decade. His impact on our company will endure well beyond his retirement," said CDM Smith Chairman and CEO Tim Wall. "As we welcome Dan, we are gaining a leader whose combination of financial expertise and engineering experience is particularly well suited to our evolving business," Wall continued. "Dan understands the complexities of project delivery, the importance of disciplined investment and the value of a long-term perspective. Most importantly, Dan shares our commitment to serving clients, supporting employee-owners and delivering meaningful outcomes for the communities we help build. I am excited to welcome him to our leadership team and look forward to the impact he will have on CDM Smith's next chapter." CDM Smith is a privately owned engineering and construction firm providing legendary client service through decades of know-how and digital ingenuity to deliver smart solutions in water, environment, transportation, energy and facilities. Passionate about our work and invested in each other, we are inspired to think and driven to solve the world's environmental and infrastructure challenges.

The Mirror Democrat and Savanna Times-Journal
Aug 12th, 2026
CDM Smith wins first place for brand awareness campaign at 2026 SMPS National Awards Gala.

CDM Smith wins first place for brand awareness campaign at 2026 SMPS National Awards Gala. * 2 hrs ago BOSTON, Aug. 12, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) - CDM Smith received first place in the Brand Awareness Campaign, Mixed-Media category at the Society for Marketing Professional Services' (SMPS) 2026 Marketing Communications Awards (MCAs), one of the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industry's most prestigious marketing competitions. TUV leader Jim Allister MP reacts as three dead in Ballymena. The award-winning "What's Happening NEXT Is Happening NOW" campaign was developed by CDM Smith's marketing and communications team to inspire clients, employees and industry professionals to prepare for the trends and technologies shaping the future. The integrated campaign combined thought leadership videos, social media content, recruiting initiatives, employee engagement activities and a webinar series to engage audiences across multiple channels. Recognized for its creativity, strategic execution and measurable results, the campaign showcased the power of collaboration across the firm, bringing together employees from diverse disciplines to share insights, perspectives and expertise. First Place: "What's Happening NEXT Is Happening NOW" Brand Awareness Campaign As emerging technologies, shifting workforce dynamics and evolving client needs continue to transform the AEC industry, organizations face increasing pressure to anticipate what's next. CDM Smith created the "What's Happening NEXT Is Happening NOW" campaign to help audiences better understand these changes and prepare for future opportunities and challenges. Through compelling storytelling and thought leadership, the campaign highlighted topics such as artificial intelligence, aging infrastructure, data centers, workforce trends and other forces shaping the industry. The effort reinforced CDM Smith's commitment to helping clients navigate change, identify opportunities and build resilient solutions for the future. This recognition reflects the talent, creativity and dedication of CDM Smith's marketing and communications team, as well as the many technical experts and employee contributors who helped bring the campaign to life. CDM Smith is a privately owned engineering and construction firm providing legendary client service through decades of know-how and digital ingenuity to deliver smart solutions in water, environment, transportation, energy and facilities. Passionate about its work and invested in each other, Mycarrollcountynews is inspired to think and driven to solve the world's environmental and infrastructure challenges. Daryl Shepard CDM Smith 6174526093 [email protected] Georgia Terry CDM Smith 6174526000 [email protected] Media gallery

Africa Business Watch
Aug 12th, 2026
CDM Smith wins first place for brand awareness campaign at 2026 SMPS National Awards Gala.

CDM Smith wins first place for brand awareness campaign at 2026 SMPS National Awards Gala. BOSTON, Aug. 12, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) - CDM Smith received first place in the Brand Awareness Campaign, Mixed-Media category at the Society for Marketing Professional Services' (SMPS) 2026 Marketing Communications Awards (MCAs), one of the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industry's most prestigious marketing competitions. The award-winning "What's Happening NEXT Is Happening NOW" campaign was developed by CDM Smith's marketing and communications team to inspire clients, employees and industry professionals to prepare for the trends and technologies shaping the future. The integrated campaign combined thought leadership videos, social media content, recruiting initiatives, employee engagement activities and a webinar series to engage audiences across multiple channels. Recognized for its creativity, strategic execution and measurable results, the campaign showcased the power of collaboration across the firm, bringing together employees from diverse disciplines to share insights, perspectives and expertise. First Place: "What's Happening NEXT Is Happening NOW" Brand Awareness Campaign As emerging technologies, shifting workforce dynamics and evolving client needs continue to transform the AEC industry, organizations face increasing pressure to anticipate what's next. CDM Smith created the "What's Happening NEXT Is Happening NOW" campaign to help audiences better understand these changes and prepare for future opportunities and challenges. Through compelling storytelling and thought leadership, the campaign highlighted topics such as artificial intelligence, aging infrastructure, data centers, workforce trends and other forces shaping the industry. The effort reinforced CDM Smith's commitment to helping clients navigate change, identify opportunities and build resilient solutions for the future. This recognition reflects the talent, creativity and dedication of CDM Smith's marketing and communications team, as well as the many technical experts and employee contributors who helped bring the campaign to life. CDM Smith is a privately owned engineering and construction firm providing legendary client service through decades of know-how and digital ingenuity to deliver smart solutions in water, environment, transportation, energy and facilities. Passionate about our work and invested in each other, we are inspired to think and driven to solve the world's environmental and infrastructure challenges. Daryl Shepard CDM Smith 6174526093 [email protected] Georgia Terry CDM Smith 6174526000 [email protected] Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content "as is" without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.

GlobeNewswire
Aug 5th, 2026
CDM Smith expands Research and Testing Laboratory to further support R&D Program and innovation for clients.

CDM Smith expands Research and Testing Laboratory to further support R&D Program and innovation for clients. August 05, 2026 17:23 ET | Source: CDM Smith BELLEVUE, Washington, Aug. 05, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) - To further support CDM Smith's Research & Development (R&D) Program and innovation, the firm has expanded its Research and Testing Laboratory facility in Bellevue, Washington by an additional 1,100 square feet. The expansion signals CDM Smith's continued investment in new ideas, new technologies and new ways of collaborating with communities and clients to solve increasingly complex water, environmental and infrastructure challenges through large-scale testing and pilot testing. The mission of CDM Smith's Research & Testing Laboratory is to advance innovation from flask to field by developing, evaluating and scaling practical technologies that help clients address complex water, wastewater, PFAS and emerging contaminant challenges. Through CDM Smith's R&D Program, the laboratory creates opportunities to transform promising ideas into tested solutions that deliver value for clients, communities and the environment. "The larger Research and Testing Laboratory space allows CDM Smith's team to advance high-impact research and accelerate the delivery of innovative solutions for clients. The upgraded lab equipment also enables precise and reliable results for clients," said Paul Ho, Laboratory Manager and environmental scientist. In addition to the Bellevue Research and Testing Laboratory facility expansion, Teri Myers, Ph.D., PMP, has been appointed as CDM Smith's new R&D Program Manager. Dr. Myers has led more than $22 million in PFAS research and complex, multidisciplinary initiatives involving universities, private organizations and federal agencies, transforming emerging research into practical applications that address environmental and infrastructure challenges. "The R&D Program is one of the most exciting ways we can explore new ideas and create value for our clients and communities. I look forward to supporting ideas and innovation across the firm and helping our teams develop solutions that address today's challenges while preparing for what's next," said Teri Myers, R&D Program Manager and environmental scientist. CDM Smith is a privately owned engineering and construction firm providing legendary client service through decades of know-how and digital ingenuity to deliver smart solutions in water, environment, transportation, energy and facilities. Passionate about its work and invested in each other, SoftwareONE AG is inspired to think and driven to solve the world's environmental and infrastructure challenges. Attachments