Transit Design Manager (Bus Rapid Transit)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Transit Design Manager (Bus Rapid Transit) Company: AECOM Location: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States Job Type: Full-time Category: Transportation Operations & Design Date Posted: 2025-09-23T12:55:28.431 Experience Level: 8+ Years (with 2+ years in leadership) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is a critical leadership position focused on the end-to-end design and project management of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) systems, requiring a deep understanding of multimodal street design and transit infrastructure.
• The Transit Design Manager will lead multidisciplinary engineering teams, ensuring the successful execution of planning studies, preliminary design, and final design phases for complex BRT projects.
• A key aspect of this role involves collaborating with clients and stakeholders, managing project scope, budget, and schedule, and contributing to business development initiatives within the transportation sector.
• The position demands technical expertise in roadway and transit design, coupled with strong project management skills and the ability to mentor junior engineers, driving operational excellence in project delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior-level, on-site position within AECOM's Transportation Business Line, specifically focusing on BRT projects. The emphasis on "project leadership" and "multidisciplinary teams" indicates a strong need for operational oversight, process management, and stakeholder engagement, typical of senior operations or project management roles within engineering consulting firms. The requirement for a PE license confirms the technical depth and professional accountability expected.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and manage multidisciplinary teams in the planning, preliminary design, and final design of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) projects, ensuring adherence to scope, budget, and schedule.
• Serve as a technical lead and subject matter expert for BRT infrastructure design, including multimodal street design, station elements, and associated systems.
• Prepare and/or review complex engineering calculations, technical specifications, and PS&E (Plans, Specifications, and Estimates) package components.
• Develop accurate construction cost estimates and technical effort estimates, managing project financial performance and operational efficiency.
• Conduct quality control reviews of design calculations, drawings, and other project deliverables to ensure compliance with design standards and client requirements.
• Coordinate with internal teams and external stakeholders, including clients, regulatory agencies, and other engineering disciplines, to facilitate seamless project execution.
• Support business development activities, including proposal preparation, client presentations, and fostering client relationships to secure future projects.
• Provide leadership and mentorship to junior engineers and design staff, fostering professional development and ensuring the efficient utilization of team resources.
• Utilize expertise in design software such as AutoCAD/Civil 3D or Microstation/OpenRoads Designer (ORD) to guide design processes and ensure technical accuracy.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on technical design leadership and project management, indicating that the ideal candidate will not only possess strong engineering acumen but also demonstrate effective operational oversight and team management capabilities. The mention of "operational efficiency" and "resource utilization" directly links to core operations management principles.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor of Science (BA/BS) in Civil Engineering, Transportation Engineering, or a related field.
• Professional Engineering (PE) license is a mandatory requirement, signifying a high level of technical competence and professional accountability.

Experience:

• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in transportation engineering, with a strong emphasis on roadway and transit design.
• At least 2 years of experience in a leadership or management role, demonstrating the ability to guide teams and manage project components.
• 5+ years in engineering project management roles is preferred, showcasing a track record of successful project delivery.
• Significant experience in Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) and/or Light Rail Transit (LRT) design is crucial, including familiarity with national standards and best practices.

Required Skills:

• Project Management: Proven ability to manage multiple project phases, stakeholders, budgets, and schedules effectively.
• BRT/LRT Design Expertise: In-depth knowledge of BRT and LRT systems design, including station design, guideway alignment, and multimodal integration.
• Roadway Design: Proficiency in designing urban and suburban roadways, including geometric design, traffic control, and drainage.
• CAD Software Proficiency: Expert-level skills in AutoCAD/Civil 3D or Microstation/OpenRoads Designer (ORD), essential for design production and review.
• Technical Specification Development: Ability to prepare comprehensive and accurate technical specifications for construction.
• Cost Estimation: Experience in developing detailed construction cost estimates and engineering effort estimates.
• Quality Control/Assurance: Strong understanding of design review processes and quality assurance methodologies.

Preferred Skills:

• Business Development: Experience in client engagement, proposal writing, and securing new business opportunities.
• Interdisciplinary Coordination: Skill in collaborating with various engineering disciplines (e.g., structural, electrical, systems) and non-engineering specialists.
• Client Relationship Management: Demonstrated success in building and maintaining strong relationships with transportation agency clients.
• Mentorship and Team Leadership: Experience in guiding, mentoring, and developing engineering teams.
• Familiarity with Local Design Standards: Knowledge of design standards specific to Pennsylvania and surrounding regions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Preferred Qualifications" emphasize experience in project management and business development, indicating that operational effectiveness in client relations and financial oversight is highly valued alongside technical design skills. The mention of "local design standards" points to the need for practical application of regulations and best practices in project execution.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• BRT Project Case Studies: Showcase detailed examples of past BRT projects managed or significantly contributed to, highlighting the scope, challenges, design solutions, and outcomes.
• Roadway Design Examples: Present examples of complex roadway design projects, demonstrating proficiency in geometric design, traffic analysis, and integration with transit elements.
• Project Management Documentation: Include samples of project management plans, schedules, budgets, and progress reports that illustrate effective operational oversight.
• Technical Deliverables Samples: Provide examples of key design documents, such as calculations, drawings, and technical specifications, demonstrating technical accuracy and adherence to standards.
• Quality Control Procedures: Outline any quality control processes or checklists developed or utilized to ensure design integrity and compliance.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Document the typical workflow for transit design projects, from concept development through final design, and highlight any processes implemented for efficiency improvements.
• Interdisciplinary Coordination Protocols: Detail established protocols for coordinating with various engineering disciplines and stakeholders to ensure seamless integration of design elements.
• Design Review and QA/QC Processes: Provide documentation of the structured processes used for design reviews, peer checks, and quality assurance to mitigate risks and ensure technical excellence.
• Client Reporting and Communication Standards: Outline the standard procedures for client communication, progress reporting, and managing stakeholder expectations throughout the project lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio demonstrating structured project management, rigorous quality control, and successful execution of complex transit design projects is essential. This implies a need for candidates to present their work with a focus on operational processes and measurable outcomes, reflecting the demands of a management role.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Given the role's seniority (8+ years experience, PE license, leadership experience), location (Pittsburgh, PA), and the nature of engineering consulting, a competitive salary range is expected. Based on industry benchmarks for Transit Design Managers with similar qualifications in major metropolitan areas like Pittsburgh, the estimated annual salary would likely fall between $110,000 and $150,000.
• This estimate considers the required expertise in BRT design, project management responsibilities, and the compensation trends for specialized engineering roles in the Mid-Atlantic region.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans.
• Life and Disability: Life Insurance, Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D), and Disability Benefits.
• Paid Time Off: Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and various Leaves of Absences.
• Retirement Savings: Retirement Savings Plan (e.g., 401k) with potential company match.
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan: Opportunity to invest in AECOM's growth.
• Professional Development: Support for continuing education, training programs, and professional certifications.
• Wellness Programs: Access to Well-being Resources and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Additional Perks: Voluntary Benefits, Perks, and Flexible Work Options (within the on-site requirement).
• Service Recognition: Awards for employee loyalty and contributions.
• Business Travel Insurance: Coverage for business travel needs.

Working Hours:

• The role is full-time, typically requiring approximately 40 hours per week.
• While the core hours are standard business hours, flexibility may be available to accommodate project deadlines and critical tasks, with the expectation of responsiveness and dedication to project success.

📝 Enhancement Note: The extensive benefits package indicates AECOM's commitment to employee well-being and professional growth, which is a significant draw for experienced operations professionals. The salary estimate is based on averaging data from reputable sources for similar roles in the specified region, reflecting a standard compensation structure for a management-level engineering position.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: AECOM operates within the Engineering, Construction, and Consulting Services industry, with a significant focus on infrastructure development and design globally. They are a major player in transportation, environmental, water, energy, and buildings sectors. Company Size: AECOM is a large, global enterprise, employing over 50,000 professionals worldwide. This scale offers vast resources, diverse project opportunities, and a robust organizational structure. Founded: AECOM was founded in 1910, signifying a long history of engineering excellence and a deep-rooted legacy in shaping infrastructure. This longevity suggests stability and a well-established operational framework.

Team Structure:

• The Transit Design Manager will be part of the Transportation Business Line, specifically within the US Mid-Atlantic Region.
• This team likely comprises various engineering disciplines (civil, structural, traffic, environmental) and design support staff, all working collaboratively on transit projects.
• Reporting lines will likely go up to a Regional Director or a Senior Vice President within the Transportation sector, with direct oversight of project teams.

Methodology:

• AECOM's operational methodology emphasizes data-driven decision-making, leveraging advanced analytics and digital tools to optimize design processes and project outcomes.
• They focus on collaborative planning and integrated design approaches, encouraging cross-functional input to solve complex infrastructure challenges.
• Automation and efficiency practices are likely integrated into their workflows to enhance productivity and ensure timely project delivery.

Company Website: AECOM.com

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's global presence and extensive history suggest a highly structured and process-oriented operational environment. The team structure implies a need for strong coordination and communication skills, as the manager will interface with diverse internal groups and external stakeholders.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is classified as a senior-level management position within the operations and design delivery function. It requires significant technical expertise, proven project management capabilities, and leadership experience, positioning the individual as a key contributor to the region's transportation portfolio. Reporting Structure: The Transit Design Manager will report to a higher-level manager within the Transportation Business Line, likely a Director or Vice President responsible for regional operations. They will, in turn, manage and mentor a team of engineers and designers, overseeing their work and professional development. Operations Impact: The role has a direct impact on AECOM's operational efficiency and project success by ensuring high-quality design delivery, client satisfaction, and adherence to project budgets and schedules. Effective management of BRT projects contributes significantly to the company's revenue and reputation in the transportation sector.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in BRT and other transit modes, potentially leading to roles focused on specific transit technologies or advanced planning studies.
• Project Management Advancement: Progress to managing larger, more complex, or multiple concurrent projects, possibly overseeing entire program portfolios.
• Leadership Development: Transition into higher leadership positions, such as Regional Director, National Practice Lead, or Business Development Manager, focusing on strategic growth and client relations.
• Mentorship and Training: Develop skills in mentoring and training junior staff, contributing to the overall talent development within AECOM's operations.
• Industry Leadership: Engage in industry associations, conferences, and thought leadership activities to enhance AECOM's profile and personal professional standing.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path suggests significant opportunities for advancement, particularly for those who can demonstrate strong operational leadership, technical acumen, and a commitment to continuous learning and team development, aligning with typical career trajectories in large engineering consulting firms.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is primarily office-based, requiring on-site presence in Pittsburgh, PA. AECOM offices are typically modern, professional environments designed to foster collaboration and productivity. Other potential office locations (Philadelphia, Conshohocken, Mechanicsburg, Newark, Morgantown) offer similar professional settings. Office Location(s): The primary location is Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. However, flexibility exists for candidates in Conshohocken, PA; Mechanicsburg, PA; Newark, DE; and Morgantown, WV, indicating a regional focus for this position. Workspace Context:

• The workspace will support collaboration, with access to shared office spaces, meeting rooms, and digital collaboration tools.
• Employees will have access to necessary engineering software and hardware, including CAD workstations and potentially advanced visualization tools.
• Opportunities for interaction with the broader transportation design team will be frequent, fostering knowledge sharing and cross-disciplinary problem-solving.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is expected, with flexibility to manage workloads and meet project demands. This may involve occasional extended hours during critical project phases, common in project-driven environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement emphasizes the importance of in-person collaboration and team integration within AECOM's operational structure. The availability of multiple office locations suggests a regional hiring strategy for this role.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or recruiter will review applications and conduct a brief phone screen to assess basic qualifications and cultural fit.
• Hiring Manager Interview: A more in-depth interview with the hiring manager to discuss technical experience, project management approach, and leadership style. Expect questions on BRT design, roadway design, and team management.
• Technical/Team Interview: Interviews with senior technical staff or potential team members to evaluate technical depth and assess collaborative potential. This may include a review of portfolio items.
• Case Study/Presentation (Potential): Candidates may be asked to present on a past project, detailing their role, contributions, challenges faced, and solutions implemented, focusing on operational aspects and project outcomes.
• Final Interview: A final discussion with senior leadership to confirm fit and discuss role expectations, compensation, and benefits.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Impact: Highlight your specific contributions to projects and the tangible results achieved (e.g., improved efficiency, cost savings, successful delivery milestones).
• Process-Oriented: Detail the methodologies, processes, and tools used to manage and execute projects, demonstrating operational rigor.
• Quantify Achievements: Use metrics and data whenever possible to support your claims about project success and your impact.
• Tailor to BRT: Ensure your portfolio prominently features BRT or similar transit projects, showcasing relevant expertise.
• Clear and Concise: Present information logically and concisely, making it easy for interviewers to understand your qualifications and experience.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss specific challenges encountered in past projects and how you overcame them, particularly those related to design coordination, scope management, or team dynamics.
• Review AECOM's approach to BRT and transit design; understanding their methodologies and recent projects will be beneficial.
• Practice articulating your leadership philosophy and how you motivate and manage engineering teams to achieve project goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to assess both technical proficiency and operational leadership. Candidates should prepare to actively showcase their project management skills and demonstrate how they apply process-driven approaches to achieve successful project outcomes.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency in AutoCAD/Civil 3D or Microstation/OpenRoads Designer (ORD) is essential for design production, review, and management.
• Project Management Software: Familiarity with tools like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or similar platforms for scheduling, resource allocation, and project tracking is highly beneficial.
• BIM Software: Experience with Building Information Modeling (BIM) platforms and workflows for transportation projects is increasingly important for integrated design and collaboration.
• Collaboration Platforms: Tools such as Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, or similar for team communication, document sharing, and project collaboration.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Cost Estimating Software: Experience with specialized software for developing detailed construction cost estimates.
• Reporting Tools: Ability to generate and interpret project progress reports, financial summaries, and performance metrics.
• Data Analysis Tools: Basic proficiency in tools like Microsoft Excel for data manipulation and analysis related to project performance and resource utilization.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While not a direct sales role, familiarity with CRM principles for client relationship management and tracking business development activities is advantageous.
• Workflow Automation: Understanding of how to leverage technology to automate repetitive tasks in design and project management processes to improve efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on specific CAD software and project management tools highlights the technical and operational requirements of the role. Candidates with experience in integrated design platforms and workflow automation will be better positioned.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Delivery: A commitment to delivering high-quality, technically sound designs on time and within budget.
• Collaboration and Teamwork: A strong emphasis on working collaboratively across disciplines and with clients to achieve shared goals.
• Innovation and Efficiency: Encouraging new ideas and efficient processes to solve complex problems and improve project outcomes.
• Safety and Integrity: Upholding the highest standards of safety in design and maintaining ethical integrity in all business dealings.
• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and meeting client needs, building lasting relationships through reliable service.

Collaboration Style:

• AECOM fosters a collaborative environment where cross-functional teams work together, sharing expertise and insights to drive project success.
• The culture encourages open communication and mutual respect among team members, promoting a supportive atmosphere for problem-solving.
• Regular team meetings, design reviews, and project coordination sessions are standard practices for ensuring alignment and effective execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company values and collaboration style suggest a professional, team-oriented environment where technical expertise is valued alongside strong interpersonal and communication skills, crucial for managing complex operational workflows.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex Multidisciplinary Teams: Effectively coordinating diverse engineering disciplines and personalities to achieve a cohesive design.
• Balancing Project Demands: Juggling multiple project priorities, client expectations, and internal deadlines within a fast-paced environment.
• Navigating Regulatory Environments: Understanding and applying various local, state, and federal regulations and standards to project designs.
• Client Relationship Management: Maintaining strong client relationships and managing expectations, especially during challenging project phases.
• Adapting to Evolving Technologies: Staying current with advancements in design software, modeling techniques, and transit technologies.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced BRT/Transit Design Training: Access to specialized training and resources on the latest BRT and transit planning and design methodologies.
• Project Management Certifications: Opportunities to pursue certifications such as PMP (Project Management Professional) or other relevant credentials.
• Leadership and Mentorship Programs: Participation in AECOM's leadership development programs to enhance management and strategic thinking skills.
• Industry Conferences and Networking: Support for attending industry events to stay abreast of trends, network with peers, and represent AECOM.
• Cross-Disciplinary Experience: Opportunities to gain exposure to and collaborate on projects involving other AECOM business lines, broadening expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for senior operational roles in engineering consulting, requiring strong problem-solving and adaptability. The growth opportunities are well-defined, offering clear pathways for career advancement and skill enhancement within the operations and project management domain.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Project Management Approach: "Describe your approach to managing a complex BRT design project from initiation to completion. What are the critical phases and key operational considerations?" (Focus on your process, risk management, and team coordination.)
• Team Leadership and Motivation: "How do you lead and motivate multidisciplinary engineering teams to deliver high-quality results under pressure? Provide an example." (Highlight delegation, communication, and conflict resolution skills.)
• Technical Problem Solving: "Describe a challenging technical issue you faced in a BRT or roadway design project and how you resolved it. What was the operational impact of your solution?" (Showcase your analytical skills and practical application.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about AECOM's work in the transportation sector, particularly BRT projects?" (Research recent AECOM projects and their strategic focus.)
• "How do you foster a collaborative and efficient working environment within your project teams?" (Align your answer with AECOM's stated values and culture.)
• "How do you ensure client satisfaction and manage client relationships throughout a project lifecycle?" (Emphasize communication, responsiveness, and delivering on promises.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly define the problem, your role and responsibilities, the processes you implemented, the solutions you designed, and the quantifiable results achieved.
• Highlight Operational Processes: Focus on how you managed the project's operational aspects: planning, scheduling, resource allocation, quality control, and risk mitigation.
• Showcase Technical Depth: Briefly explain key design decisions and technical challenges, demonstrating your engineering expertise.
• Quantify Impact: Use metrics (e.g., budget adherence, schedule milestones met, design efficiency improvements) to illustrate the success of your management and design efforts.
• Be Prepared for Q&A: Anticipate questions about your decision-making process, challenges faced, and lessons learned.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to articulate their operational methodologies, demonstrate how they manage teams and projects to achieve specific outcomes, and showcase their understanding of AECOM's business and culture through their responses and portfolio presentation.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the SmartRecruiters platform.
• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight specific experience in BRT design, project management, and leadership roles. Quantify achievements with data and metrics relevant to operational efficiency and project success.
• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly lists your PE license, proficiency in required CAD software (AutoCAD/Civil 3D or Microstation/OpenRoads Designer), and years of experience in transportation design and project management.
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your project management methodologies, team leadership approach, and technical problem-solving skills. Prepare specific examples from your portfolio that demonstrate your operational impact.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with AECOM's recent transportation projects, particularly BRT initiatives, and understand their company values and strategic priorities to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural alignment.

⚠️ 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.

---