Pre-Construction Engineer (VA Based)

Overview

Store Development Project Engineer (VA Based) – Wills Group

Join to apply for the Store Development Project Engineer (VA Based) role at Wills Group.

Job Purpose And Function : As the Store Development Project Manager, you'll play a critical role in bringing our store expansion and remodels to life across the Mid and South Atlantic regions. From site due diligence through permitting and pre-construction, you will manage the early lifecycle of new and redeveloped Dash In and Splash In locations—ensuring projects are scoped thoughtfully, permitted efficiently, and positioned for successful delivery to construction. This role is ideal for a proactive and organized project manager who thrives in cross-functional environments and is passionate about quality design, operational excellence, and delivering elevated guest experiences through retail environments.

How You'll Make An Impact

• Lead the design, engineering, permitting, and pre-construction process for new builds, major remodels, and fuel system upgrades across Dash In's portfolio.
• Develop and manage pre-construction budgets including site investigation, due diligence, design fees, and permitting costs. Own the project schedule from initial concept through handoff to construction.
• Partner with Real Estate, Construction, and Legal teams to conduct site investigations and review due diligence reports (environmental, geotechnical, survey, etc.). Identify risks, constraints, and opportunities to inform business cases.
• Coordinate external consultants and internal stakeholders to develop site plans and building designs that meet Dash In standards, zoning requirements, and operational goals. Oversee entitlement processes including community meetings and government approvals.
• Lead cross-functional meetings and communicate project status, challenges, and opportunities to internal teams and leadership. Serve as the primary point of contact with municipalities, consultants, and permitting agencies during the development phase.
• Ensure all development plans align with lease, purchase, and easement agreements. Support Legal and Real Estate in contract negotiation by identifying site-specific risks and conditions.
• Maintain accurate documentation, schedules, and progress reports in designated project management platforms (e.g., Smartsheet, Procore, etc.).

Qualifications

An ideal candidate will also have experience managing fuel-related developments or c-store portfolios.

Availability and Travel

ADA Compliance

The Wills Group is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and fostering an inclusive workplace for individuals with disabilities. We ensure that all qualified individuals are given the necessary accommodations to perform the essential functions of their roles. Reasonable accommodations can be discussed during the hiring process.

Why You Should Join Wills Group

As a thriving, family-owned, $1.5 billion company headquartered in La Plata, Maryland, we have a strong presence across the Mid-Atlantic region with nearly 300 retail locations including Dash In, Splash In ECO Car Wash, and SMO Motor Fuels. Since 1926, our work-hard, play-hard mentality drives us to serve the communities that support us. We are focused on empowering individuals to embrace new possibilities and chart their own paths to success.

Benefits And Perks

Benefits include a comprehensive total rewards package with a focus on financial, physical, and professional well-being. Wills Group is a certified Great Place to Work and prioritizes development and growth opportunities.

Wills Group does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or employment agencies in response to the Wills Group careers page or a Wills Group social media post. All employment is decided based on qualifications, merit, and business need. Wills Group is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other status protected by law.

Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Wills Group. If you are viewing this on a job board, you can also search for related roles in La Plata, MD.

J-18808-Ljbffr