Civil Design Manager – Roads
📍 Job Overview
Job Title: Civil Design Manager – Roads & Traffic
Company: Parsons Corporation
Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia / Abha, Saudi Arabia
Job Type: Full-time
Category: Civil Engineering / Transportation Infrastructure Operations
Date Posted: August 17, 2026
Experience Level: 20+ Years
Remote Status: On-site
🚀 Role Summary
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Oversee the comprehensive design, planning, and execution of road networks and traffic management systems for a high-end luxury development.
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Ensure seamless integration of road and traffic infrastructure, adhering to stringent safety, regulatory, and aesthetic standards.
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Manage project lifecycle, from initial design and traffic impact assessments to construction oversight and quality control.
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Lead and mentor multidisciplinary teams, fostering collaboration with engineers, urban planners, and contractors.
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Drive the implementation of sustainable and intelligent transportation solutions, including ITS and multimodal planning.
📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior leadership position within the Civil Engineering and Transportation Infrastructure domain. The focus on "luxury hospitality, residential, and infrastructure development" implies a need for not only technical expertise but also an understanding of high-end project aesthetics and client expectations. The integration of "operations" into the category reflects the managerial and execution-focused nature of the role, which involves ongoing oversight and quality assurance rather than pure design.
📈 Primary Responsibilities
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Lead the comprehensive design, planning, and implementation of roads, intersections, traffic control systems, and parking solutions within the development.
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Ensure all road and traffic designs strictly comply with local (Saudi Arabian) and international standards for safety, efficiency, and sustainability.
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Optimize road alignments, pavement structures, and grading to support project functionality, long-term durability, and aesthetic integration with the luxury development.
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Oversee the design and implementation of intelligent transportation systems (ITS), signalized intersections, and pedestrian-friendly mobility solutions to enhance traffic flow and user experience.
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Implement sustainable traffic solutions, including the integration of EV charging infrastructure, smart traffic control technologies, and comprehensive multimodal transportation planning.
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Manage road construction activities, ensuring strict adherence to project schedules, budgets, and quality standards throughout the execution phase.
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Coordinate closely with civil engineers, urban planners, landscape architects, and external contractors to ensure the seamless integration of road and traffic systems with the overall master plan and architectural vision.
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Ensure the proper design and implementation of drainage, signage, road marking, and lighting infrastructure to optimize traffic flow, safety, and aesthetic appeal.
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Conduct thorough traffic impact assessments (TIA) to identify potential issues and implement effective mitigation strategies to minimize disruption and enhance network performance.
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Ensure strict adherence to national and international traffic and highway design standards (e.g., AASHTO, FHWA, relevant Saudi DOT regulations).
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Work collaboratively with local authorities and permitting agencies to secure all necessary approvals and permits for infrastructure development.
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Proactively identify and mitigate risks associated with traffic congestion, road safety hazards, and infrastructure vulnerabilities.
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Implement rigorous quality control measures during road construction and traffic system installations to guarantee superior outcomes.
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Conduct regular site inspections, audits, and performance assessments of completed roads and transportation networks to ensure ongoing functionality and compliance.
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Represent the project in critical progress meetings, regulatory discussions, and important stakeholder engagements, advocating for design integrity and project success.
📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical design leadership, project management, and stakeholder relations. The emphasis on "luxury" and "high-end" development suggests that aesthetic considerations and client satisfaction are as critical as technical performance. The inclusion of "traffic management systems" and "ITS" points towards a need for operational efficiency and modern technology integration.
🎓 Skills & Qualifications
Education:
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Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Civil Engineering, Transportation Engineering, or a closely related field from an accredited institution. Experience:
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A minimum of 20+ years of progressive experience specifically in road and traffic engineering.
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Proven track record in managing and delivering large-scale infrastructure projects, with a significant focus on luxury hospitality, residential, and urban development projects. Required Skills:
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Deep expertise in highway and road network design principles, including geometric design, pavement engineering, and traffic control systems.
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Strong proficiency in leading-edge highway design software such as Civil 3D, MX Road, Open Roads, SYNCHRO, and VISSIM, or similar advanced platforms.
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Comprehensive understanding and practical experience in conducting Traffic Impact Assessments (TIA) and developing effective mitigation strategies.
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Proven experience with smart mobility solutions, intelligent transportation systems (ITS), and integrated transport planning.
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Demonstrated ability to manage complex infrastructure projects from conception through to completion, ensuring adherence to scope, budget, and timeline.
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Excellent leadership, team management, and mentorship capabilities for engineering and technical staff.
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Strong stakeholder engagement and communication skills, with the ability to effectively liaise with government agencies, clients, consultants, and contractors.
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Thorough knowledge of relevant local (Saudi Arabian) and international road and traffic design standards, regulations, and best practices.
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Robust understanding of construction methodologies, quality control processes, and risk management in infrastructure projects. Preferred Skills:
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Experience with sustainable infrastructure design and implementation, including green infrastructure and EV charging solutions.
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Familiarity with advanced traffic simulation and modeling techniques beyond VISSIM.
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Knowledge of urban planning principles and their integration with transportation infrastructure.
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Experience with contract administration and procurement processes for major civil works.
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Professional Engineering (PE) license or equivalent international certification.
📝 Enhancement Note: The "20+ years" experience requirement and the specific software mentions (Civil 3D, MX Road, Open Roads, SYNCHRO, VISSIM) clearly indicate a senior-level role demanding deep technical and managerial expertise in road and traffic engineering. The emphasis on "luxury development" implies a need for an aesthetic sensibility and client-focused approach beyond standard infrastructure projects.
📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements
Portfolio Essentials:
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Demonstrate a history of successfully managed road and traffic design projects, showcasing complexity and scale.
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Provide case studies detailing the planning, design, and execution phases of significant infrastructure developments, highlighting your leadership role.
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Showcase examples of traffic impact assessments and the resulting mitigation strategies implemented, with measurable outcomes.
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Include documentation or descriptions of integrated transportation systems or smart mobility solutions you have overseen.
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Present examples of collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and effective stakeholder management in complex project environments. Process Documentation:
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Detailed documentation of the design review process for road and traffic systems, including quality assurance checkpoints.
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Workflow diagrams illustrating the project lifecycle from concept to completion for infrastructure projects.
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Evidence of process optimization initiatives implemented to improve efficiency, safety, or sustainability in road design or traffic management.
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Examples of risk assessment and mitigation plans developed for road construction and traffic management projects.
📝 Enhancement Note: For a senior role like this, a portfolio is crucial. It should not just list projects but demonstrate strategic thinking, problem-solving, and leadership in managing complex road and traffic infrastructure. The focus should be on the impact and outcomes of the processes managed.
💵 Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range:
Based on industry benchmarks for a Civil Design Manager with 20+ years of experience in a major Middle Eastern city like Riyadh or Abha, and considering the specialized nature of luxury development projects, the estimated annual salary range is likely between SAR 450,000 to SAR 750,000 (approximately USD 120,000 to USD 200,000). This range can vary significantly based on the candidate's specific qualifications, negotiation, and the overall compensation package offered by Parsons.
Benefits:
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Comprehensive health insurance coverage for the employee and dependents.
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Generous paid time off (vacation and sick leave) in line with Saudi labor law and company policy.
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Relocation assistance package for candidates moving to Saudi Arabia.
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Housing allowance or company-provided accommodation.
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Transportation allowance or company vehicle.
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Annual flight tickets for international employees or their families.
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Professional development and continuous learning opportunities, including training and certifications.
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Pension or retirement contribution plan.
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Life insurance coverage.
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Opportunities for career advancement within Parsons' global network. Working Hours:
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Standard full-time work week, typically 40 hours per week.
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Working hours are generally Monday to Friday, with potential for weekend work or extended hours during critical project phases, consistent with construction and project management demands.
📝 Enhancement Note: Salary figures are estimates based on industry research for senior engineering management roles in Saudi Arabia, considering the high cost of living and demand for specialized expertise in large-scale developments. Benefits are typical for expatriate roles in the region, designed to attract and retain top talent.
🎯 Team & Company Context
🏢 Company Culture
Industry: Engineering, Construction, and Consulting, with a strong focus on infrastructure, defense, intelligence, and cybersecurity. Parsons is a global leader in delivering innovative solutions for complex challenges.
Company Size: Large Enterprise (Parsons has over 16,000 employees globally).
Founded: 1944. This long history signifies stability, deep expertise, and a robust legacy in engineering and infrastructure.
Team Structure:
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The Civil Design Manager will likely lead a specialized team of civil engineers, traffic engineers, transportation planners, and design technicians focused on the road and traffic aspects of the development.
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This team will report to a senior project director or program manager, and will collaborate extensively with other functional teams (e.g., urban planning, architecture, landscape architecture, utilities, construction management).
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The structure emphasizes cross-functional collaboration and a matrixed reporting approach common in large, complex project environments. Methodology:
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Parsons emphasizes a data-driven approach to design and project execution, leveraging advanced modeling and simulation tools.
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The company promotes agile methodologies where applicable, focusing on iterative design, continuous feedback, and adaptability to project changes.
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A strong focus on quality, safety, and sustainability is embedded in their project delivery frameworks.
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Emphasis on client-centric solutions, ensuring that designs meet specific project requirements and stakeholder expectations.
Company Website: https://www.parsons.com/
📝 Enhancement Note: Parsons' long history and global presence suggest a professional, structured work environment with a strong emphasis on technical excellence and project delivery. The scale of the company implies opportunities for diverse project involvement and career growth. The "Imagine Next!" slogan points towards a forward-thinking culture that embraces innovation.
📈 Career & Growth Analysis
Operations Career Level: This is a senior-level management role, representing a significant step in a civil or transportation engineering career. It signifies responsibility for a critical project component, requiring strategic oversight, team leadership, and substantial technical and managerial autonomy. It's a leadership position focused on the operational execution of civil design.
Reporting Structure: The Civil Design Manager will report to a higher-level project director or program manager, overseeing the day-to-day operations of the road and traffic design team. They will also be responsible for reporting progress, risks, and technical decisions to project leadership and potentially client representatives.
Operations Impact: The role has a direct and significant impact on the success of the overall development. Effective road and traffic design and management are crucial for:
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Project Viability: Ensuring the development is accessible and functional.
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Safety & Security: Minimizing risks for residents, visitors, and workers.
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User Experience: Creating a seamless and enjoyable flow of movement within the development.
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Sustainability: Integrating eco-friendly transportation solutions.
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Regulatory Compliance: Meeting all legal and governmental requirements.
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Brand Reputation: Upholding the high standards expected of a luxury development.
Growth Opportunities:
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Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in advanced transportation engineering, ITS, or sustainable mobility solutions.
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Project Leadership: Transition to Program Management or Director-level roles overseeing larger infrastructure portfolios.
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International Mobility: Opportunities to work on diverse projects in different global regions where Parsons operates.
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Business Development: Contribute to proposal development and client relationship management for future projects.
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Mentorship & Training: Develop into a senior mentor for junior engineers, contributing to Parsons' talent development initiatives.
📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned at the pinnacle of specialized civil design management, offering substantial responsibility and impact. Growth trajectories are clearly defined towards broader project leadership and potential global mobility within Parsons.
🌐 Work Environment
Office Type: The role is primarily based in an on-site project office environment, typical for large-scale development projects. This setting is dynamic, fast-paced, and requires close proximity to design teams, project management, and potentially construction sites.
Office Location(s):
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Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: The capital city, a major hub for development and business.
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Abha, Saudi Arabia: Located in the Asir Province, potentially indicating work on a specific development within that region, which is known for its scenic beauty and tourism potential. Workspace Context:
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Collaborative Environment: Expect a highly collaborative workspace, involving frequent interaction with design engineers, project managers, urban planners, architects, and contractors.
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Operations Tools & Technology: Access to state-of-the-art design software (Civil 3D, VISSIM, etc.), project management platforms, and communication tools will be standard.
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Operations Team Interaction: Regular team meetings, design reviews, site visits, and stakeholder consultations will be integral to the daily work. The environment will foster knowledge sharing and problem-solving among experienced professionals.
Work Schedule:
- A standard 40-hour work week is the baseline, but the demands of large-scale infrastructure projects often require flexibility. Expect potential for extended hours, weekend work, and on-call responsibilities, particularly during critical design milestones or construction phases. This schedule is typical for senior project management roles in the construction and development sectors.
📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is critical for this role, emphasizing the need for direct oversight and hands-on management of project operations. The dual location possibility suggests flexibility or a phased approach to project deployment.
📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process
Interview Process:
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Initial Screening: HR or a recruitment specialist will review your application and resume for basic qualifications and experience alignment.
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Technical Interview: A panel of senior engineers or project managers from Parsons will assess your technical expertise in road and traffic design, software proficiency, and understanding of relevant standards. Be prepared to discuss specific design challenges and solutions.
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Managerial/Leadership Interview: This stage focuses on your leadership style, project management capabilities, team management experience, and ability to handle complex stakeholder relationships. Behavioral questions will be common.
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Portfolio Review: You will be asked to present key projects from your portfolio, detailing your role, challenges, solutions, and outcomes. This is a critical part of the evaluation, demonstrating your practical application of skills and strategic thinking.
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Final Interview: Potentially with a senior executive or client representative, focusing on cultural fit, strategic vision, and overall suitability for the role and the project's high-end nature.
Portfolio Review Tips:
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Curate Selectively: Focus on 3-5 of your most relevant and impactful projects that best showcase your experience in large-scale road and traffic infrastructure, especially in luxury or complex developments.
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Structure Case Studies: For each project, clearly outline the problem/objective, your specific role and responsibilities, the design and engineering solutions implemented, challenges faced and how they were overcome, and the measurable results (e.g., improved traffic flow, reduced congestion, enhanced safety, budget/schedule adherence).
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Highlight Software Proficiency: Be ready to discuss your hands-on experience with the required software (Civil 3D, VISSIM, SYNCHRO, etc.) and how you used it to achieve design goals or solve problems.
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Emphasize Leadership & Collaboration: Detail how you led teams, managed stakeholders, and collaborated with other disciplines to ensure project success.
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Quantify Achievements: Wherever possible, use data and metrics to demonstrate the impact of your work (e.g., "reduced average travel time by 15%," "improved intersection capacity by 20%," "delivered project 5% under budget").
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Tailor to Luxury Context: If possible, highlight projects where aesthetic considerations or integration with high-end environments were important.
Challenge Preparation:
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Design Scenario: Be prepared for a hypothetical design challenge (e.g., designing an intersection for a new luxury resort entrance, optimizing traffic flow in a dense urban area, or planning for pedestrian movement in a high-footfall zone). Focus on your approach, methodology, and key considerations.
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Traffic Impact Analysis: You might be asked to outline the steps involved in a TIA for a large development or how you would address a specific traffic impact issue.
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Stakeholder Management: Prepare examples of how you have navigated conflicts or achieved consensus with difficult stakeholders (e.g., regulatory bodies, community groups, demanding clients).
📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to thoroughly assess technical acumen, leadership capability, and practical experience. A strong, well-prepared portfolio presentation is paramount for this senior role. The focus on "luxury" implies a need to demonstrate an understanding of elevated project standards.
🛠 Tools & Technology Stack
Primary Tools:
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Highway Design Software: Extensive experience required with industry-standard platforms such as Autodesk Civil 3D, Bentley MX SS4/OpenRoads Designer, or similar. Proficiency in geometric design, earthwork calculations, and corridor modeling is essential.
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Traffic Simulation & Modeling Software: High proficiency in traffic analysis and simulation tools like PTV VISSIM, SYNCHRO Studio (including SIMtraffic), or equivalent for evaluating traffic flow, intersection operations, and network performance.
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Project Management Software: Familiarity with project management tools such as Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or similar for scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking.
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CAD & BIM Software: General proficiency in AutoCAD and potentially exposure to Building Information Modeling (BIM) workflows for infrastructure projects.
Analytics & Reporting:
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Data Analysis Tools: Ability to analyze traffic data, performance metrics, and project progress reports. Familiarity with tools like Microsoft Excel (advanced functions, pivot tables) or dedicated data analysis software if applicable.
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Reporting Dashboards: Experience in creating and interpreting project status reports, performance dashboards, and technical documentation for various stakeholders.
CRM & Automation:
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While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design and infrastructure data integrate with broader project management or client relationship systems may be beneficial.
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Familiarity with any company-specific project collaboration platforms or document management systems used by Parsons.
📝 Enhancement Note: The specified software (Civil 3D, MX Road, Open Roads, SYNCHRO, VISSIM) are critical technical requirements. Proficiency in these tools is non-negotiable for this role and should be highlighted in applications and portfolios.
👥 Team Culture & Values
Operations Values:
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Excellence in Execution: A commitment to delivering high-quality, technically sound, and efficient infrastructure solutions that meet or exceed client expectations.
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Integrity & Ethics: Upholding the highest standards of professional conduct, transparency, and ethical decision-making in all project dealings.
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Innovation & Adaptability: Embracing new technologies, methodologies, and creative problem-solving approaches to tackle complex challenges and drive progress.
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Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and collective success is prioritized.
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Safety & Sustainability: A deep-seated commitment to ensuring the safety of all stakeholders and minimizing the environmental impact of infrastructure projects.
Collaboration Style:
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Cross-functional Integration: Parsons promotes a highly collaborative approach where design, engineering, construction, and project management teams work synergistically. The Civil Design Manager will be expected to bridge gaps between disciplines and ensure cohesive project delivery.
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Proactive Communication: Regular, clear, and concise communication with internal teams, external consultants, contractors, and regulatory bodies is essential.
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Constructive Feedback: An open environment for providing and receiving feedback on designs, processes, and project performance to drive continuous improvement.
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Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise across project teams and the wider organization.
📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture at Parsons, as suggested by its values and slogan, likely emphasizes professionalism, innovation, and a results-oriented approach. The role requires an individual who can thrive in a collaborative, technically demanding, and client-focused environment.
⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities
Challenges:
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Complexity of Luxury Development: Balancing highly technical engineering requirements with the aesthetic and functional demands of a luxury development, ensuring both performance and visual appeal.
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Stakeholder Management: Navigating the expectations and requirements of multiple stakeholders, including clients, government authorities, and various consultants, in a high-stakes project.
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Regulatory Environment: Adapting to and ensuring compliance with Saudi Arabian traffic and construction regulations, which may differ from international standards.
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Rapid Urbanization: Managing infrastructure design in a rapidly developing region that demands efficient planning and execution to keep pace with growth.
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Technology Integration: Staying abreast of and implementing new smart mobility and ITS technologies effectively within project constraints.
Learning & Development Opportunities:
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Advanced Technical Training: Access to specialized training in cutting-edge transportation engineering techniques, traffic simulation, and ITS technologies.
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Leadership Development Programs: Parsons likely offers programs to enhance leadership, project management, and strategic decision-making skills for senior staff.
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Industry Conferences & Certifications: Opportunities to attend major transportation engineering conferences and pursue relevant professional certifications.
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Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Gaining exposure to other aspects of large-scale developments (e.g., utilities, architecture, sustainability) through project involvement.
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Mentorship: Potential to be mentored by senior leaders within Parsons or to mentor junior engineers, fostering professional growth.
📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for large-scale, high-profile projects, requiring a blend of technical expertise, project management acumen, and strong interpersonal skills. The growth opportunities align with career progression within a major engineering firm.
💡 Interview Preparation
Strategy Questions:
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Strategic Planning: "Describe your approach to developing a comprehensive road and traffic master plan for a large-scale luxury development. What are the key considerations and potential challenges?" (Focus on holistic planning, integration with master plan, stakeholder needs, and risk mitigation.)
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Design Philosophy: "How do you balance technical engineering requirements with aesthetic considerations and user experience in high-end developments?" (Highlight your understanding of luxury project demands, material selection, and integration with architectural vision.)
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Technology Adoption: "How would you assess and integrate new ITS or smart mobility solutions into a project like this? What are the key benefits and risks?" (Discuss your process for evaluating technology, pilot programs, cost-benefit analysis, and implementation planning.)
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Team Leadership: "Describe a time you had to lead a diverse team of engineers and consultants through a challenging project phase. How did you ensure alignment and successful delivery?" (Use the STAR method - Situation, Task, Action, Result - to detail your leadership approach.)
Company & Culture Questions:
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Parsons Alignment: "What attracts you to Parsons, and how do you see your skills and experience contributing to our 'Imagine Next!' culture and values?" (Research Parsons' mission, values, and recent projects; connect your experience to their goals.)
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Collaboration: "How do you foster collaboration between design teams, contractors, and regulatory bodies to ensure project success?" (Provide examples of your communication strategies and conflict resolution skills.)
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Risk Management: "How do you proactively identify and mitigate risks in road construction and traffic management projects?" (Discuss your systematic approach to risk assessment and contingency planning.)
Portfolio Presentation Strategy:
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Impactful Storytelling: For each project, frame it as a narrative: the challenge, your strategic approach, the innovative solutions, the collaborative effort, and the quantifiable positive outcomes.
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Data-Driven Evidence: Showcase how you used data, simulations, and analysis to inform design decisions and demonstrate project success. Highlight key metrics.
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Leadership Demonstration: Clearly articulate your role in leading teams, managing complex relationships, and driving project execution.
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Technical Depth: Be ready to dive into technical details of your designs and the software used, demonstrating your hands-on expertise.
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Conciseness: Respect the interviewer's time. Aim for clear, concise presentations, focusing on the most relevant achievements.
📝 Enhancement Note: The interview preparation guidance focuses on demonstrating strategic thinking, technical leadership, and an understanding of the specific demands of luxury development projects, alongside Parsons' corporate culture.
📌 Application Steps
To apply for this Civil Design Manager – Roads & Traffic position:
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Submit your application through the Parsons Careers portal via the provided URL.
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Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your most relevant experience in large-scale road and traffic infrastructure projects, emphasizing luxury development, ITS, and your leadership capabilities. Prepare your portfolio with detailed case studies focusing on impact and quantifiable results.
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Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly lists your degree, years of experience, specific software proficiencies (Civil 3D, VISSIM, SYNCHRO, etc.), and key project types (e.g., residential, hospitality, urban development). Use keywords from the job description.
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Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method. Prepare specific examples for leadership, problem-solving, and technical challenges. Be ready to present your portfolio confidently and concisely.
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Company Research: Thoroughly research Parsons Corporation, its projects (especially in the Middle East), its mission, and its values. Understand the "Imagine Next!" philosophy and how your contributions align with it.
⚠️ 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.
Application Requirements
Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Civil or Transportation Engineering and possess over 20 years of relevant experience in infrastructure projects. Proficiency in highway design software such as Civil 3D, SYNCHRO, and VISSIM is required, along with expertise in traffic impact studies and smart mobility solutions.