Transit Design Manager (BRT)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Transit Design Manager (BRT) Company: AECOM Location: Columbus, Ohio, United States Job Type: Full-time Category: Transit & Rail Operations / Infrastructure Design Management Date Posted: July 29, 2025 Experience Level: 10+ Years Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage the planning, preliminary design, and final design phases for Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) infrastructure projects across the United States.
• Oversee and mentor multidisciplinary engineering teams, ensuring the successful execution of design tasks and project deliverables within scope, budget, and schedule.
• Serve as a key technical resource and project lead, applying expertise in multimodal street design, roadway design, and BRT/LRT standards to develop high-quality engineering solutions.
• Contribute to business development efforts by fostering strong client relationships and supporting proposal development for new transit and infrastructure projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is critical for AECOM's transit and rail engineering group, focusing specifically on Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) projects. The "Manager" title, combined with the 10+ years of experience and leadership requirements, indicates a senior-level position with significant project oversight and team leadership responsibilities, rather than purely individual contribution. The emphasis on client interaction and business development suggests a strategic growth component to the role.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Serve as a project lead, project manager, or discipline lead on a variety of transit projects, with a primary focus on Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) planning and design studies.
• Oversee multidisciplinary teams in the preparation of engineering calculations, drawings, and visual aids for BRT infrastructure, ensuring adherence to design standards and best practices.
• Manage the development and review of multimodal street designs, integrating transit, pedestrian, and vehicular traffic considerations to create efficient and safe urban environments.
• Coordinate and collaborate with internal design teams (including civil, structural, traffic, systems engineers) and external stakeholders to ensure seamless project integration and stakeholder satisfaction.
• Develop and manage project budgets, schedules, and technical effort estimates, performing quality control reviews of design deliverables to ensure accuracy and compliance.
• Prepare and review technical specifications, engineering design reports, and construction cost estimates for transit infrastructure projects.
• Provide leadership and mentorship to junior engineers and designers, fostering a culture of technical excellence, continuous improvement, and professional development within the team.
• Support business development activities by cultivating and maintaining strong relationships with transportation agency clients, identifying new opportunities, and contributing to proposal preparation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical design leadership and project management. The emphasis on "multidisciplinary teams" and "interdisciplinary review" points to the need for strong coordination and communication skills. The requirement for "performance at this level requires developmental experience in a professional position" suggests that candidates should demonstrate progression in project management and leadership capabilities alongside their technical expertise.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor of Science (BS) or Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Engineering (Civil, Transportation, or related field) or demonstrated equivalent of experience and education.

Experience:

• A minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in transportation design.
• At least 2 years of demonstrated experience in a leadership or management capacity.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in engineering project management roles.

Required Skills:

• Professional Engineering (PE) license is mandatory.
• Proficiency in engineering design software such as AutoCAD/Civil 3D or Microstation/Power InRoads or Power GeoPak.
• Demonstrated ability to prepare engineering design reports and construction drawings for highway, roadway, transit, and/or rail projects.
• Strong ability to collaborate and coordinate effectively with multi-discipline design engineers and technicians.
• Excellent communication (written and verbal) and interpersonal skills, crucial for client interaction and team leadership.

Preferred Skills:

• Specific experience in Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) and/or Light Rail Transit (LRT) design.
• Familiarity with local design standards of various transportation agencies, as well as national BRT/LRT standards and best practices.
• Experience in leading business development efforts and cultivating client relationships within the transportation sector.
• Roadway design experience is highly valued.
• Ability to interpret and utilize appropriate design standards and guidelines effectively.
• Good relationships with multiple transportation agency clients.

📝 Enhancement Note: The mandatory PE license is a significant qualifier. The software proficiency requirements are specific and essential for day-to-day work. The preference for BRT/LRT experience and client relationships directly aligns with the role's focus and growth objectives, indicating that candidates with this background will be highly competitive.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a portfolio showcasing successful project management of complex transit infrastructure projects, specifically BRT or similar Bus Priority schemes.
• Include case studies that highlight your ability to lead multidisciplinary design teams through the full project lifecycle, from conceptual planning to final design and construction support.
• Showcase examples of your work in developing detailed engineering calculations, construction drawings, and technical specifications for roadway and transit elements.
• Present evidence of your experience in managing project budgets, schedules, and technical efforts, with a focus on delivering projects within defined constraints.
• Provide examples of your leadership and mentorship capabilities, illustrating how you have guided and developed engineering teams.

Process Documentation:

• Evidence of developing and implementing efficient design processes, including workflow design and optimization for transit projects.
• Demonstrate experience with quality control procedures and the implementation of best practices in engineering design and documentation.
• Showcase your ability to articulate and document complex design solutions, technical specifications, and project requirements clearly.
• Illustrate your approach to coordinating design efforts across various engineering disciplines to ensure cohesive and integrated project outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated as a formal submission requirement, a strong portfolio demonstrating past performance in managing BRT/transit design projects, team leadership, and client interaction will be crucial for showcasing capabilities during the interview process. Candidates should be prepared to discuss specific projects and their role in their success.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• The offered rate of compensation in Columbus, Ohio, and the Ohio region is between $150,000.00 and $210,000.00 annually. This range is based on individual education, qualifications, experience, and work location.

Benefits:

• AECOM offers a comprehensive benefits package, which may include:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
  • Life Insurance and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) benefits
  • Disability Benefits (Short-term and Long-term)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) and Leaves of Absences
  • Voluntary Benefits and Perks
  • Flexible Work Options
  • Well-being Resources and Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Business Travel Insurance
  • Service Recognition Awards
  • Retirement Savings Plan (e.g., 401(k))
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)

Working Hours:

• The standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, reflecting a full-time commitment. Flexibility may be available based on project needs and AECOM's policies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is competitive for a senior-level Transit Design Manager role in a major metropolitan area like Columbus, Ohio. The extensive list of benefits indicates a robust employee support system, which is a significant draw for experienced professionals. The note about H1-B sponsorship not being offered is important for international candidates.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: AECOM operates within the Engineering & Construction industry, specifically focusing on infrastructure consulting. They are a global leader in providing planning, design, engineering, program management, and construction management services for transportation, buildings, water, environment, and energy sectors. Company Size: AECOM is a Fortune 500 company with over 50,000 employees worldwide. This large scale offers opportunities for diverse project involvement and career mobility. Founded: AECOM was founded in 1910, giving it over a century of experience and a strong legacy in the infrastructure sector. This long history implies stability, deep industry knowledge, and established client relationships.

Team Structure:

• The Transit Design Manager (BRT) will report into the US West Region Transit/Rail Engineering Group, indicating a divisional structure within a larger global organization.
• This role involves leading and coordinating with multidisciplinary teams, including civil engineers, transportation planners, traffic engineers, designers, and technicians, both within the transit/rail group and potentially across other AECOM disciplines.
• Collaboration will extend to various internal AECOM departments (e.g., project controls, business development) and external entities such as clients (transportation agencies), sub-consultants, and construction contractors.

Methodology:

• AECOM likely employs a data-driven approach to engineering design, utilizing sophisticated modeling and analytics tools to support decision-making and optimize solutions.
• The company emphasizes collaboration and integrated project delivery, working closely with clients and stakeholders to achieve project goals.
• Process optimization and the adoption of new technologies (e.g., digital design tools, BIM) are likely core to their operational methodology to enhance efficiency and project outcomes.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's global presence and long history suggest a structured, professional environment with established processes and a strong focus on technical expertise. The "US West Region Transit/Rail Engineering Group" context implies that while based in Ohio, the role might engage with projects and teams across a broader geographic area, potentially requiring some travel or remote collaboration.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position represents a senior-level role within the engineering and design operations of AECOM's transit practice. It is a management position that requires a blend of technical expertise, project leadership, and business development acumen. Reporting Structure: The Transit Design Manager (BRT) will report to leadership within the US West Region Transit/Rail Engineering Group. This structure suggests a clear line of management oversight and performance evaluation. Operations Impact: The role directly impacts AECOM's ability to secure and successfully deliver complex BRT projects, contributing significantly to the company's revenue and reputation in the transportation sector. Effective project management and client satisfaction are key performance indicators for operational success.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in BRT and advanced transit systems, potentially leading to roles like Principal Transit Designer or Technical Director.
• Project Management Advancement: Progress into larger, more complex program management roles or regional leadership positions within the transit sector.
• Business Development Leadership: Transition into roles focused on client relationship management, strategic account management, or leading business development efforts for the entire transit practice.
• Cross-Disciplinary Experience: Gain exposure to other AECOM business lines (e.g., environmental, buildings) through project involvement, expanding career options.
• Mentorship and Training: AECOM's commitment to training and development programs offers opportunities to enhance leadership, technical, and business skills, paving the way for career advancement into senior management or executive positions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for this role is clearly defined towards senior leadership, both in technical specialization and project/business management. AECOM's global scale and commitment to training provide a fertile ground for career development, making this a strategic move for ambitious operations professionals in the transit sector.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Columbus, Ohio, and is described as "on-site." This suggests a traditional office environment where collaboration, team meetings, and client interactions can occur face-to-face. AECOM offices typically provide professional workspaces equipped with necessary technology. Office Location(s): While the primary location is Columbus, OH, the job description mentions other potential office locations for this role, including Chicago and Minneapolis. This implies a regional team structure and potential for interaction with colleagues across these locations.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely be a professional office setting designed to foster collaboration among design teams. This includes access to design software, hardware, meeting rooms, and potentially shared project spaces.
• Expect a dynamic environment with project deadlines requiring focused work, alongside collaborative sessions for design reviews, brainstorming, and client presentations.
• Opportunities for interaction with other AECOM professionals across various disciplines will be available, promoting cross-functional learning and problem-solving.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is expected to be 40 hours per week. However, project demands in the infrastructure sector can sometimes require flexibility, with the possibility of extended hours during critical project phases or client meetings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "on-site" designation is crucial. While AECOM may offer flexible work options, this specific role appears to require consistent presence in the office for team collaboration and project management. The mention of other office locations suggests a potentially distributed team, requiring strong virtual collaboration skills in addition to on-site presence.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or a recruiter will likely conduct an initial screening to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit. Be prepared to discuss your career trajectory and interest in AECOM.
• Hiring Manager Interview: A more in-depth discussion with the hiring manager, focusing on your technical expertise in BRT design, project management experience, leadership style, and understanding of the role's responsibilities.
• Technical/Team Interview: You may meet with other senior engineers or team members who will assess your technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and how you would integrate into the existing team dynamics. This stage often includes scenario-based questions or discussions about past projects.
• Portfolio Presentation (Potential): Candidates might be asked to present a selection of their work from their portfolio, highlighting key BRT projects, design challenges overcome, and project outcomes.
• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader or director within the transit division, focusing on strategic alignment, business development capabilities, and long-term career aspirations with AECOM.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight BRT Expertise: Curate examples specifically demonstrating your experience in BRT planning, design, and project management. Showcase your understanding of BRT components (stations, guideways, systems, operations).
• Quantify Achievements: For each project presented, clearly state your role, the project's scope, the challenges faced, and the quantifiable results achieved (e.g., on-time delivery, budget adherence, design efficiency improvements, client satisfaction).
• Showcase Leadership: Include examples of how you've led design teams, mentored junior staff, and managed interdisciplinary coordination. Discuss your approach to conflict resolution and team motivation.
• Demonstrate Client Interaction: If possible, include examples of client presentations, proposal contributions, or how you've managed client expectations and built relationships.
• Technical Proficiency: Be ready to discuss your proficiency with required software (AutoCAD/Civil 3D, Microstation) and your understanding of relevant design standards.

Challenge Preparation:

• Prepare for scenario-based questions related to managing complex transit projects, handling difficult stakeholders, resolving design conflicts, or addressing project delays.
• Be ready to discuss your approach to quality control and ensuring design accuracy.
• Think about how you would approach business development for transit projects and identify potential clients or opportunities.
• Practice articulating your leadership philosophy and how you foster a collaborative and productive team environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is likely multi-stage, typical for a senior management role. A strong emphasis will be placed on practical experience, leadership, and the ability to translate technical knowledge into successful project outcomes and business growth. Preparing specific examples for your portfolio and interview responses is crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency in AutoCAD/Civil 3D or Microstation/Power InRoads or Power GeoPak is essential for creating and reviewing engineering drawings and design elements for roadways and transit infrastructure.
• Project Management Software: Familiarity with tools like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or similar for project planning, scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking.
• Collaboration Platforms: Experience with tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, Zoom, or similar for team communication, virtual meetings, and document sharing.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Design Analysis Tools: Software for traffic analysis (e.g., VISSIM, Synchro), geometric design analysis, and potentially GIS tools for spatial data management and analysis.
• Cost Estimating Software: Tools for developing detailed construction cost estimates and evaluating the financial feasibility of design options.
• Reporting Tools: Proficiency in Microsoft Excel for data analysis and reporting, and potentially experience with business intelligence tools for performance dashboards.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While not explicitly mentioned for this design role, familiarity with CRM principles for client relationship management (e.g., Salesforce) could be beneficial for business development aspects.
• Document Management Systems: Experience with enterprise-level document management systems for storing, organizing, and collaborating on project deliverables.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technical requirement revolves around CAD software. Beyond that, strong project management and collaboration tools are assumed, alongside analytical tools relevant to transportation design. Candidates should be ready to discuss their experience with these types of systems.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Delivery: A commitment to delivering high-quality, innovative, and sustainable infrastructure solutions that meet client needs and exceed expectations.
• Collaboration and Teamwork: Fostering a supportive environment where diverse teams work together effectively, sharing knowledge and expertise to achieve common goals.
• Integrity and Ethics: Upholding the highest standards of professional conduct, honesty, and ethical decision-making in all business dealings.
• Innovation and Continuous Improvement: Encouraging creative problem-solving and the adoption of new technologies and methodologies to enhance efficiency and project outcomes.
• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and meeting client requirements, building strong, long-term relationships based on trust and performance.

Collaboration Style:

• AECOM likely promotes a collaborative approach, emphasizing open communication and mutual respect among team members.
• Expect a culture that values interdisciplinary teamwork, where engineers from different specialties work closely to solve complex design challenges.
• Feedback is likely encouraged, with processes in place for design reviews and peer critiques to ensure quality and foster professional growth.
• The company culture supports knowledge sharing and learning from project experiences to drive continuous improvement across the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's stated values and likely collaborative culture align well with the demands of a management role that requires integrating various technical disciplines and client needs. Candidates who can demonstrate these values in their professional conduct will likely be a strong fit.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Multidisciplinary Teams: Effectively coordinating and motivating diverse teams with varying technical backgrounds and priorities to achieve cohesive project outcomes.
• Client Management: Navigating client expectations, managing scope changes, and ensuring client satisfaction on complex, high-stakes projects.
• Technical Complexity: Tackling intricate design challenges in urban environments, integrating BRT systems with existing infrastructure and diverse transportation modes.
• Business Development: Actively contributing to securing new projects and expanding AECOM's market share in the transit sector, requiring strong networking and sales skills.
• Staying Current: Keeping abreast of evolving transit technologies, design standards, and regulatory requirements to ensure innovative and compliant solutions.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Access to specialized training programs in BRT design, advanced traffic modeling, and sustainable infrastructure practices.
• Leadership Development: Opportunities to participate in leadership training, project management certifications, and mentorship programs to hone management skills.
• Industry Engagement: Encouragement to attend industry conferences, workshops, and professional development events to network and stay informed about best practices and emerging trends.
• Project Diversity: Exposure to a wide range of BRT projects across different cities and scales, providing diverse learning experiences and skill-building opportunities.
• Career Pathing: Structured career progression pathways within AECOM, allowing for advancement into senior technical, project management, or business leadership roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are inherent to senior roles in infrastructure design and management. AECOM's commitment to learning and development provides a clear path for mitigating these challenges through skill enhancement and professional growth.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Operational Strategy: "Describe your approach to managing the design process for a large-scale BRT project from concept to final design. How do you ensure interdisciplinary coordination and quality control?" (Focus on process, tools, and team management.)
• Leadership & Team Management: "How do you motivate and guide a multidisciplinary engineering team to meet challenging project deadlines and quality standards? Provide an example of a time you effectively mentored a junior engineer." (Focus on leadership style, motivation techniques, and development.)
• Problem-Solving & Design: "Walk me through a complex design challenge you faced on a transit project and how you resolved it. What were the technical considerations and trade-offs?" (Focus on analytical skills, technical depth, and decision-making.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• Client Relationships: "AECOM values strong client relationships. How have you built and maintained relationships with transportation agencies in your previous roles?" (Focus on communication, trust-building, and client satisfaction.)
• Team Dynamics: "Describe your ideal team environment and how you foster collaboration. How do you handle conflicts within a project team?" (Focus on collaborative approach and conflict resolution.)
• Impact & Vision: "What do you believe are the most critical factors for successful BRT implementation, and how does your role contribute to AECOM's mission of delivering a better world?" (Focus on understanding of BRT, company mission alignment, and personal contribution.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio by project type (BRT focus first), clearly outlining your role, the project's objectives, your specific contributions, challenges faced, and the quantifiable outcomes.
• Visuals: Use clear, professional visuals (drawings excerpts, diagrams, photos if available) to illustrate design concepts and project scope.
• Narrative: Tell a compelling story for each project, emphasizing your problem-solving approach and leadership impact. Connect your past successes to the requirements of this role.
• Conciseness: Be prepared to present key projects within a limited timeframe (e.g., 10-15 minutes), focusing on the most relevant and impactful aspects.
• Q&A: Anticipate questions about your design choices, project management decisions, and how you handle specific operational scenarios.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare detailed, evidence-based answers for interview questions, drawing directly from their project experience and leadership roles. A well-prepared portfolio presentation that clearly articulates their impact and aligns with AECOM's values and the role's requirements will be a significant advantage.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on AECOM's careers portal.
• Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume to highlight your 10+ years of transportation design experience, specific BRT project involvement, project management successes, leadership roles, and proficiency with required software (AutoCAD/Civil 3D or Microstation). Quantify achievements wherever possible.
• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of your strongest work, focusing on BRT design projects. Be ready to discuss your contributions, leadership actions, and project outcomes in detail. Practice presenting key projects concisely.
• Research AECOM: Familiarize yourself with AECOM's projects, values, and recent news, particularly within their transit and rail sector. Understand their approach to infrastructure development and their commitment to "delivering a better world."
• Practice Interview Questions: Prepare answers to anticipated interview questions, focusing on behavioral examples that demonstrate your technical expertise, leadership capabilities, problem-solving skills, and client management experience. Be ready to discuss your salary expectations within the provided range.

⚠️ 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.