Bridge Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Bridge Design Manager

Company: Stantec

Location: Columbia, SC (Charleston or Greenville considered with travel to Columbia)

Job Type: Full time

Category: Engineering / Transportation Infrastructure Management

Date Posted: 2026-08-31

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage multidisciplinary engineering teams focused on the design and delivery of complex bridge and transportation infrastructure projects.

• Drive technical excellence and innovation in bridge design, ensuring adherence to industry standards, client requirements, and project objectives.

• Oversee the complete project lifecycle, from conceptual design and detailed engineering to construction phase services and client coordination.

• Foster a collaborative team environment, mentoring junior engineers and ensuring high-quality, efficient, and technically sound project deliverables.

• Actively participate in business development activities, including proposal preparation, client relationship management, and securing new project opportunities.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior leadership opportunity within Stantec's Bridges and Structures team, requiring a strong blend of technical expertise in bridge design, robust project management capabilities, and proven leadership skills. The emphasis on both Design/Bid/Build and Design/Build environments suggests a need for adaptability and comprehensive project lifecycle understanding.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Manage and oversee the design development and delivery of a diverse range of transportation infrastructure projects, including bridges, highway interchanges, roadway widening, railroad infrastructure, pedestrian facilities, and public spaces.

• Provide expert technical guidance and leadership to engineering teams, resolving complex design challenges and facilitating critical decision-making processes.

• Oversee and manage construction phase services, acting as the Designer of Record to ensure project compliance and address site-specific issues.

• Lead and execute various design projects across different procurement models, specifically Design/Bid/Build and Design/Build environments, demonstrating flexibility and adaptability.

• Mentor, guide, and monitor the work of other bridge engineers, fostering professional development and ensuring the highest standards of technical competency and quality control.

• Perform rigorous quality control and quality assurance checks on all engineering deliverables, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and adherence to Stantec's standards.

• Manage client coordination efforts, including managing deliverables, submittals, conducting meetings, responding to review comments, and overseeing invoicing processes.

• Contribute to business development by assisting in the preparation of compelling proposals and presentations for various project pursuits and engaging in public information meetings.

• Develop and present technical papers and presentations, contributing to industry knowledge sharing and Stantec's thought leadership in bridge engineering.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a significant focus on technical leadership, project execution, client management, and business development. The requirement to mentor junior engineers and perform quality assurance indicates a senior-level role with direct impact on team performance and project success.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or a related engineering discipline.

• Postgraduate degree in Structural or Civil Engineering is preferred, offering advanced theoretical knowledge. Experience:

• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in structural design, with a specialization in bridges and transportation structures.

• Demonstrated experience in managing engineering teams and leading complex infrastructure projects from conception through completion.

• Proven track record in both Design/Bid/Build and Design/Build project delivery methodologies. Required Skills:

• Professional Engineer (PE) license in South Carolina.

• Deep expertise in bridge design principles, structural analysis, and seismic design.

• Proficiency in structural analysis software such as CSI Bridge, SAP 2000, or similar platforms.

• Familiarity with Bentley OpenBridge Designer, Microstation, and AutoCAD for design and drafting.

• Knowledge of AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications and related state DOT (e.g., SCDOT) standards.

• Strong project management skills, including scope, schedule, and budget control.

• Excellent client coordination and communication abilities, with a proven ability to manage client relationships.

• Experience in proposal preparation and business development for engineering services.

• Proven leadership and team management capabilities, with a focus on mentoring and staff development. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with MathCad for calculations and documentation.

• Familiarity with AASHTO BrR (Bridge Rating) and BrM (Bridge Management) software.

• Experience in bridge inspection and rehabilitation projects.

• Knowledge of sustainable engineering practices in transportation infrastructure.

• Public speaking and presentation skills for public information meetings and conference presentations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a PE license in South Carolina is critical. The blend of software proficiency, design code knowledge, and project management skills indicates a role that demands both technical depth and leadership breadth. The preference for a postgraduate degree suggests an appreciation for advanced theoretical understanding in structural engineering.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 complex bridge design projects that demonstrate your technical leadership, problem-solving abilities, and project management expertise.

• Highlight projects that involved leading engineering teams, managing multiple stakeholders, and delivering within budget and schedule constraints.

• Include examples of design calculations, structural analysis reports, and final design drawings that reflect your technical proficiency.

• Present case studies that illustrate your role in overcoming significant design challenges and achieving successful project outcomes, emphasizing innovation and efficiency.

• Demonstrate experience with various project delivery methods, such as Design/Bid/Build and Design/Build, with clear articulation of your contributions. Process Documentation:

• Provide evidence of established processes for quality control and quality assurance in bridge design, including review checklists and sign-off procedures.

• Document your approach to managing project scope, schedule, and budget, including any specific project management methodologies or tools utilized.

• Illustrate your process for client coordination, including communication protocols, deliverable tracking, and issue resolution strategies.

• Detail your methods for mentoring and developing junior engineering staff, including performance feedback and skill development plans.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is crucial for this role, as it will serve as the primary evidence of technical competence and leadership capability. The emphasis on process documentation underscores the need for a candidate who not only designs but also manages and optimizes the design process itself.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated range of $120,000 - $180,000 annually, depending on experience, qualifications, and specific location. Benefits:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Wellness program, Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for healthcare management.

• Robust retirement savings plan with a 401(k) and an Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP).

• Life insurance, Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) insurance, and short-term/long-term disability coverage.

• Emergency travel benefits for added security.

• Support for professional development through tuition reimbursement and coverage of professional membership fees.

• Generous paid family leave policy.

• Ten paid holidays per calendar year.

• Vacation accrual ranging from 10 to 20 days per year, based on tenure.

• Paid sick leave, in accordance with applicable state and local laws. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time position, typically 40 hours per week.

• Flexibility may be available, with the understanding that project deadlines and client needs may require occasional extended hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on industry benchmarks for a Bridge Design Manager role with 10+ years of experience in the Southeast US, considering the specified locations (Columbia, SC). Stantec offers a competitive benefits package, reflecting a commitment to employee well-being and professional growth.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering, Consulting, and Design Services for Infrastructure and the Built Environment. Stantec operates globally, focusing on sustainable solutions that improve communities.

Company Size: Stantec is a large, publicly traded company with over 19,000 employees worldwide, indicating a stable and resource-rich environment for operations professionals.

Founded: Stantec was founded in 1954, bringing decades of experience and a strong legacy in engineering and design.

Team Structure:

• The Bridges and Structures Team is a specialized unit within Stantec's broader Transportation business line.

• This role will likely involve leading a team of structural engineers, designers, and drafters, reporting to a senior manager or director within the transportation sector.

• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, involving close work with roadway engineers, environmental specialists, geotechnical engineers, and project managers across various Stantec disciplines. Methodology:

• Stantec emphasizes a data-driven approach to design, utilizing advanced modeling and analysis tools to ensure structural integrity and performance.

• Workflow planning and optimization are key, with a focus on efficient project delivery and client satisfaction.

• Automation and efficiency practices are encouraged to streamline design processes and enhance productivity.

Company Website: https://www.stantec.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Stantec's global presence and long history suggest a culture that values expertise, innovation, and client partnerships. The company's commitment to sustainability is likely integrated into its design methodologies. The size of the company offers numerous opportunities for career advancement and specialization within the operations and engineering fields.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior-level management position, requiring significant technical expertise and leadership experience. The role is critical for project success, client retention, and the development of future engineering talent within Stantec.

Reporting Structure: The Bridge Design Manager will likely report to a Director or Vice President of Transportation or a similar senior leadership role within the regional or national transportation practice. They will manage a team of engineers and designers.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct and significant impact on Stantec's revenue and client satisfaction through successful project delivery, business development efforts, and maintaining high-quality engineering standards. Successful project execution directly contributes to the company's reputation and market share in the transportation sector.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Opportunities to lead larger, more complex, and higher-profile bridge and infrastructure projects, potentially at a national or international level.

• Leadership Development: Potential to advance into higher management roles, such as Regional Bridge Practice Leader, Director of Transportation, or Vice President, overseeing broader teams and strategic initiatives.

• Specialization & Expertise: Deepen expertise in niche areas of bridge engineering (e.g., seismic retrofitting, complex cable-stayed bridges, innovative materials) and become a recognized subject matter expert within Stantec and the industry.

• Mentorship & Training: Opportunities to develop and lead internal training programs for bridge engineering staff, contributing to the company's overall technical capability.

📝 Enhancement Note: Stantec, as a large global firm, typically offers structured career paths and ample opportunities for professional development. This role is a key stepping stone for individuals aspiring to senior leadership positions within the engineering and consulting industry.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Primarily an office-based role, with some flexibility for hybrid work arrangements. The emphasis is on collaborative work within a professional office setting.

Office Location(s): Preferred location is Columbia, SC, with Charleston or Greenville as viable alternatives, provided there is some weekly travel to the Columbia office. This indicates a regional focus within South Carolina.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is designed to foster collaboration, with open-plan areas and dedicated meeting rooms equipped for design reviews and client discussions.

• Access to advanced design software, hardware, and IT infrastructure is standard, enabling efficient execution of technical tasks.

• Frequent interaction with project teams, other disciplines, and management will be integral to the daily work environment. Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week, typical for a full-time professional role.

• While a structured work week is expected, the dynamic nature of project deadlines may necessitate occasional flexible hours or overtime to meet critical milestones and client demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role, with specific location preferences and travel requirements, suggests a need for adaptability and strong time management skills. The office environment is expected to be professional and conducive to collaborative engineering work.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess qualifications, experience, and alignment with the role's core responsibilities.

• Technical Interview: In-depth discussion focused on your bridge design expertise, structural analysis capabilities, project management experience, and familiarity with relevant codes and software. Expect technical questions related to past projects.

• Managerial/Leadership Interview: Assessment of your leadership style, team management approach, client relationship skills, and business development acumen. Behavioral questions will likely be used to gauge your fit with Stantec's culture.

• Portfolio Presentation: A dedicated session where you will present key projects from your portfolio, detailing your role, challenges overcome, solutions implemented, and project outcomes. This is a critical component for demonstrating practical experience and impact.

• Final Interview: May involve meeting with senior leadership to discuss strategic fit, long-term career aspirations, and overall suitability for the role and company.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Projects: Choose 3-5 of your most impactful and relevant bridge design projects. Focus on complexity, scale, and your specific contributions.

• Quantify Achievements: Use data and metrics whenever possible to demonstrate the impact of your work (e.g., cost savings, schedule adherence, structural performance improvements).

• Highlight Leadership: Clearly articulate your role in leading teams, mentoring staff, and managing client relationships.

• Showcase Problem-Solving: Detail specific technical or project management challenges you encountered and the innovative solutions you developed.

• Structure Your Presentation: Organize your portfolio presentation logically, perhaps chronologically or by project type, ensuring a clear narrative for each case study.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss specific design methodologies, code interpretations, and the application of structural analysis software.

• Anticipate questions about managing project risks, resolving conflicts, and ensuring quality control throughout the design process.

• Practice articulating your project management approach and how you ensure successful project delivery under various constraints.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily weigh your ability to demonstrate practical experience through your portfolio. Be ready to discuss your technical decisions and leadership philosophy in detail.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Structural Analysis Software: CSI Bridge, SAP 2000, STAAD.Pro, or similar. Proficiency in at least one is essential.

• Design & Drafting Software: Bentley OpenBridge Designer, Microstation, AutoCAD. These are critical for producing design deliverables.

• Calculation Software: MathCad is preferred for detailed engineering calculations and documentation.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with Stantec's internal project management tools (e.g., Oracle Primavera, Microsoft Project) may be beneficial.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Experience with tools for analyzing project performance data, tracking design progress, and generating reports for clients and internal management.

• Ability to interpret and present data related to project budgets, schedules, and resource allocation. CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding client relationship management principles is key.

• Familiarity with tools that automate design checks, drawing production, or reporting processes can be advantageous.

• Experience with document management systems for project deliverables and communication is expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with industry-standard structural analysis and CAD software is a non-negotiable requirement. The ability to leverage these tools effectively for complex bridge design is paramount.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all professional dealings and project execution.

• Collaboration: Fostering a team-oriented environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and collective problem-solving is encouraged.

• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and exceeding client expectations through high-quality service and successful project delivery.

• Innovation: Encouraging creative thinking and the adoption of new technologies and methodologies to improve design processes and outcomes.

• Excellence: A commitment to delivering superior engineering solutions that are safe, efficient, and sustainable.

Collaboration Style:

• Stantec promotes a collaborative approach, encouraging open communication and knowledge sharing across disciplines and teams.

• Expect regular team meetings, design reviews, and cross-functional workshops to ensure alignment and effective problem-solving.

• Feedback is a key component, with an emphasis on constructive dialogue to drive continuous improvement in project execution and professional development.

📝 Enhancement Note: Stantec's values emphasize a strong ethical foundation, a collaborative spirit, and a drive for excellence. Candidates who align with these values and can demonstrate effective teamwork will be well-suited for this role.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Diverse Project Portfolios: Balancing the demands of multiple complex bridge projects simultaneously, each with unique technical requirements and client expectations.

• Navigating Design/Build Environments: Adapting to the accelerated timelines and integrated team structures inherent in Design/Build projects, requiring strong coordination and rapid decision-making.

• Mentoring and Developing Talent: Effectively guiding and developing junior engineers, ensuring they gain the necessary skills and experience while contributing to project success.

• Staying Ahead of Technological Advancements: Continuously learning and integrating new design software, analysis techniques, and construction technologies to maintain Stantec's competitive edge.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Access to Stantec's internal training programs and external workshops focused on cutting-edge bridge engineering techniques and software.

• Leadership and Management Courses: Opportunities to enhance leadership, project management, and business development skills through dedicated professional development programs.

• Industry Conferences and Professional Societies: Support for attending and presenting at industry conferences (e.g., TRB, AASHTO) and participating in professional organizations to network and stay abreast of industry trends.

• Mentorship Programs: Opportunities to be mentored by senior leaders within Stantec or to serve as a mentor to emerging talent, fostering personal and professional growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant opportunities for professional growth, particularly in leadership and advanced technical specialization. The challenges are those typical of a senior role in a dynamic engineering environment, requiring continuous learning and adaptation.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to managing a team of bridge engineers on a large-scale infrastructure project. How do you ensure quality and timely delivery?" (Focus on team leadership, project management methodologies, and quality assurance processes.)

• "Walk me through a complex bridge design project you managed from conception to completion. What were the key challenges, and how did you overcome them?" (Prepare a detailed case study highlighting technical problem-solving, client management, and successful outcomes.)

• "How do you approach client coordination and relationship management, particularly in challenging situations or during project pursuits?" (Emphasize communication strategies, conflict resolution, and business development contributions.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Stantec and this specific Bridge Design Manager role, and how do your skills and experience align with our values?" (Research Stantec's projects, values, and sustainability initiatives. Connect your experience to their mission.)

• "How do you foster a collaborative and inclusive team environment, especially when working across different disciplines or with remote team members?" (Provide examples of your leadership style and team-building efforts.)

• "How do you measure the success of a bridge design project beyond technical specifications? What metrics do you track?" (Focus on client satisfaction, ROI, safety, and long-term performance.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Frame your project presentations as compelling narratives, detailing the problem, your proposed solution, the execution, and the successful outcome.

• Visual Aids: Utilize high-quality visuals, including design drawings, 3D models, and progress photos, to effectively communicate the scope and complexity of your work.

• Quantify Impact: Be ready to present data that demonstrates the value and impact of your contributions, such as cost savings, efficiency gains, or structural performance improvements.

• Conciseness: Allocate specific time slots for each project to ensure you cover your key points efficiently within the allotted time.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare specific examples and data points for each question. The interview will assess not only your technical knowledge but also your leadership capabilities, problem-solving skills, and cultural fit within Stantec.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the Stantec careers portal, ensuring all required fields are completed accurately.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your most relevant bridge design, project management, and leadership experience, using keywords from the job description. Prepare a digital portfolio showcasing your key projects with detailed descriptions of your role, challenges, and achievements.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your 10+ years of experience, PE license in SC, proficiency in key software (CSI Bridge, Bentley OpenBridge Designer, Microstation, AutoCAD), and experience with AASHTO codes. Quantify achievements wherever possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience through STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) responses for behavioral questions. Prepare a concise and impactful presentation of your portfolio projects, focusing on leadership and problem-solving.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Stantec's recent projects, company culture, values, and sustainability initiatives. Understand their market position in the transportation infrastructure sector.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.