Senior Transportation Project Engineer

The Transportation Project Engineer / Senior Transportation Project Manager provides senior-level technical leadership and project oversight for complex transportation infrastructure initiatives within a public-sector environment. This role is responsible for leading the planning, design, and delivery of roadway and transportation projects while balancing regulatory compliance, budget constraints, and quality expectations. The position plays a critical role in client relationship management, backlog execution, and the development of high-performing engineering teams, with a strong emphasis on accountability, mentorship, and long-term business impact.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the delivery of transportation engineering projects from planning through final design and implementation.
• Oversee roadway geometry, traffic control, and drainage design in accordance with municipal, state, and federal standards.
• Serve as a primary technical and managerial point of contact for public-sector clients, fostering long-term, trust-based relationships.
• Ensure all projects comply with applicable regulatory, funding, and agency requirements, including state DOT standards.
• Coordinate effectively with multidisciplinary internal teams, external consultants, and public agencies.
• Balance competitive public-sector fee structures with the expectation of high-quality, technically sound project delivery.
• Take ownership of active project backlogs and support delivery across multiple regional offices as needed.
• Identify and resolve technical, regulatory, and budget-related challenges through proactive problem-solving.
• Support business development efforts through proposal development and pursuit of new transportation work.
• Mentor and develop junior engineers, strengthening overall team capacity, performance, and efficiency.

Qualifications

• Minimum of six years of hands-on transportation engineering experience, with increasing responsibility consistent with project engineer, project manager, or senior project manager levels within a U.S.-based civil engineering or contractor environment.
• Demonstrated experience delivering municipal, state DOT, or federally funded transportation projects.
• Strong technical expertise in transportation design, including roadway geometry, traffic control, and drainage systems.
• Proven ability to work independently while coordinating with multidisciplinary teams and public agencies.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license in Illinois or a demonstrated commitment to obtaining licensure.
• Proficiency with industry-standard design and productivity tools, including MicroStation, AutoCAD, and Microsoft 365.
• Client-focused communicator with strong relationship-building, persuasion, and negotiation skills.
• Analytical, detail-oriented professional with strong follow-through and a calculated approach to risk-taking.
• Comfort with direct, constructive dialogue and the ability to navigate challenging conversations effectively.
• High-energy, adaptable leader who thrives in relationship-driven, growth-oriented environments and values mentorship.