Transportation Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Transportation Design Manager

Company: Sundt

Location: Tempe, Arizona, United States

Job Type: Full time

Category: Engineering & Design Operations / Construction Management

Date Posted: 2026-06-10T20:07:16

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Provides strategic technical leadership across engineering, design, pre-construction, business development, and operations functions, ensuring alignment with Sundt's project delivery excellence.

• Manages and oversees all contracted and in-house design services, acting as the primary owner's technical interface to drive project success and stakeholder satisfaction.

• Administers critical personnel functions, including recruitment, job description management, salary classifications, and personnel selection, fostering a high-performing design team.

• Develops and monitors design budgets and schedules, ensuring efficient resource allocation and timely project completion in adherence to quality management programs.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is classified as "Safety-Sensitive," indicating a critical need for adherence to safety protocols and potentially involving tasks related to operating vehicles, equipment, or handling hazardous materials, which is common in construction and infrastructure projects. The "10+" years of experience, coupled with the "Manager" title, suggests a senior-level position with significant responsibility for team leadership, strategic planning, and technical oversight within the transportation infrastructure sector.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Provide expert technical guidance and direction to internal teams and external consultants on complex and advanced design deliverables, potentially serving as the Engineer of Record for key design components.

• Coordinate in-house engineering and design staff assignments, manage workloads, and develop accurate staffing forecasts and budgets to support project pipelines.

• Develop comprehensive work scopes and labor estimates for all in-house design tasks, ensuring cost-effectiveness and resource optimization.

• Ensure strict adherence to all applicable local, state, and federal laws, guidelines, procedures, rules, regulations, and company policies.

• Lead and manage technical teams effectively during both the pursuit and final design phases of transportation projects, ensuring seamless integration and execution.

• Drive innovation by leading the exploration of alternate designs and new technologies, challenging the status quo to promote novel and efficient design solutions.

• Monitor and report progress against design budgets and schedules, proactively identifying and mitigating potential risks or delays.

• Recommend and implement new policies or procedures to enhance design processes, quality, and efficiency across the organization.

• Stay current with industry best practices, new technologies, and regulatory changes within the transportation design sector, ensuring continuous compliance and competitive advantage.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a blend of technical expertise, project management, and leadership within the design and engineering lifecycle of transportation projects. The inclusion of "Engineer of Record" responsibilities implies a need for deep technical accountability and a strong understanding of civil and structural engineering principles relevant to transportation infrastructure.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (e.g., Civil, Structural, Transportation) required.

• EIT (Engineer in Training) or PE (Professional Engineer) certification(s) strongly preferred, demonstrating foundational and advanced professional licensing. Experience:

• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in transportation design, engineering, or a related field, with a proven track record of managing complex projects and teams.

• Demonstrated experience in personnel management, including recruitment, performance reviews, and team development within an engineering or construction environment.

• Proven ability to manage design budgets, develop labor estimates, and forecast staffing needs for large-scale infrastructure projects. Required Skills:

• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, essential for stakeholder management, team leadership, and technical documentation.

• Proficient use of all Microsoft Office Suite programs (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) for daily operations, reporting, and presentations.

• Strong technical leadership capabilities, with the ability to guide and mentor engineering and design staff on complex deliverables.

• Expertise in design quality management principles and the ability to ensure consistent application of design standards.

• Proven project management skills, including scope definition, scheduling, budgeting, and risk mitigation.

• Ability to analyze and interpret local, state, and federal laws, regulations, and guidelines relevant to transportation design and construction. Preferred Skills:

• Experience serving as an Engineer of Record for transportation infrastructure projects.

• Familiarity with specialized transportation design software (e.g., AutoCAD Civil 3D, Bentley Systems products, HEC-RAS).

• Knowledge of pre-construction processes and their integration with design and operations.

• Experience in business development and client relationship management within the engineering or construction sector.

• Demonstrated ability to explore and implement innovative design solutions and new technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on EIT/PE certifications and the potential to serve as Engineer of Record highlights the critical technical and legal responsibilities of this role. Proficiency in the Microsoft Office Suite is a baseline, but specialized engineering software would be a significant advantage for operational efficiency.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Provide case studies showcasing successful management of transportation design projects from concept to completion, highlighting scope, budget, and schedule adherence.

• Demonstrate experience in developing and implementing design quality management programs, including examples of quality assurance and control processes.

• Showcase examples of personnel management strategies, including team building, performance improvement plans, and recruitment initiatives within engineering teams.

• Include evidence of budget management, labor estimation, and resource allocation for complex design projects, detailing methodologies used. Process Documentation:

• Documented workflows for managing in-house and contracted design services, emphasizing coordination and oversight mechanisms.

• Examples of process improvements implemented to enhance design efficiency, reduce costs, or improve project outcomes.

• Records of compliance with regulatory requirements and safety standards, demonstrating a commitment to legal and ethical practices.

• Evidence of innovative problem-solving in design, including the exploration and adoption of new technologies or alternative design approaches.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio for this role should not just list past projects but should actively demonstrate the candidate's ability to manage processes, lead teams, control budgets, and drive quality and innovation within the complex field of transportation design.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Based on industry benchmarks for a Transportation Design Manager with 10+ years of experience in a major metropolitan area like Tempe, Arizona, the estimated annual salary range is between $130,000 and $180,000. This estimate accounts for the senior level of the position, the technical expertise required, and the cost of living in the Phoenix metropolitan area.

Benefits:

• Market Competitive Salary (paid weekly)

• Bonus Eligibility based on company, group, and individual performance

• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) & 401K: As a 100% employee-owned company, Sundt offers significant long-term wealth-building opportunities.

• Industry Leading Health Coverage Starting Your First Day: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Flexible Time Off (FTO): Generous paid time off policy to support work-life balance.

• Medical, Health Savings, and Wellness Credits: Programs designed to support employee well-being and healthcare costs.

• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs): For healthcare and dependent care expenses.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services.

• Workplace Wellness Programs: Initiatives promoting healthy lifestyles.

• Mental Health Program: Dedicated resources and support for mental well-being.

• Life and Disability Insurance: Financial protection for employees and their families.

• Employee-Owner Perks: Additional benefits and discounts available to employee-owners.

• Educational Assistance: Support for continued learning and professional development.

• Sundt Foundation - Charitable Employee-Owner's Program: Opportunities to contribute to community initiatives. Working Hours:

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

• Flexibility may be required based on project demands, deadlines, and site-specific needs, common in the construction and engineering industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate. Sundt's comprehensive benefits package, particularly the ESOP and 401K, underscores its commitment to employee ownership and long-term financial well-being. The "Safety-Sensitive" designation might imply specific protocols for work hours and rest periods depending on the nature of the tasks performed.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction & Infrastructure, with a strong focus on Transportation projects. Sundt is a significant player in building roads, bridges, and other critical transportation networks.

Company Size: Large (typically 1,000 - 5,000+ employees), indicating a robust organizational structure, extensive resources, and a broad geographic reach.

Founded: 1909. With over a century of experience, Sundt boasts a deep legacy of expertise, stability, and a proven track record in the construction industry.

Team Structure:

• The Transportation Design Manager will likely lead a dedicated team of engineers, designers, drafters, and technical specialists focused on transportation projects.

• This role reports to senior leadership within the engineering, design, or operations division, with potential dotted-line reporting to project directors.

• Close collaboration is expected with pre-construction, business development, operations (field teams), project management, and procurement departments. Methodology:

• Sundt emphasizes a data-driven approach to project execution, leveraging analytics for performance tracking, risk assessment, and decision-making.

• Workflow planning and optimization are key, focusing on efficient project delivery, cost control, and quality assurance throughout the design and construction phases.

• Automation and efficiency practices are likely integrated, with an emphasis on leveraging technology to streamline processes and enhance productivity.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Sundt's long history and employee-ownership model suggest a culture that values stability, expertise, long-term commitment, and a strong sense of shared purpose among its employee-owners. The focus on "skill, grit, and purpose" indicates a demanding but rewarding work environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior Management / Principal Engineer. This role sits at a critical juncture, bridging technical design expertise with managerial oversight and strategic input for the company's transportation initiatives.

Reporting Structure: Likely reports to a VP of Engineering/Design, Director of Operations, or Chief Engineer, with direct reports including engineers and design professionals.

Operations Impact: The Transportation Design Manager has a direct and significant impact on the company's ability to win and successfully execute transportation projects. Their leadership influences project profitability, client satisfaction, technical quality, and the company's reputation for innovation and reliability in the infrastructure sector.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential progression to Director-level roles, overseeing larger engineering departments, or executive positions within the company.

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific transportation sub-sectors (e.g., highways, bridges, aviation, rail) or emerging technologies (e.g., smart infrastructure, sustainable design).

• Broader Scope: Transition into roles with broader responsibilities, such as VP of Operations, Chief Technical Officer, or leading major strategic initiatives.

• Mentorship & Training: Opportunity to mentor junior engineers, contribute to Sundt's training programs, and represent the company at industry conferences.

📝 Enhancement Note: Sundt's employee-ownership model inherently fosters a culture of growth and investment in its people. This role offers a clear path for career advancement within a stable, reputable construction firm, particularly for those with a passion for infrastructure development.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Primarily an office-based role, likely within a professional engineering or construction firm environment. Sundt's headquarters or regional offices would provide the necessary infrastructure.

Office Location(s): Tempe, Arizona (2620 S. 55th Street, Tempe, AZ 85282). Sundt also has numerous offices across the US.

Workspace Context:

• A collaborative office setting is expected, fostering interaction with design teams, project managers, and other operational leaders.

• Access to standard office technology, including high-performance workstations for design software, communication tools, and project management platforms.

• Opportunities for direct interaction with field operations teams through site visits and project reviews, bridging the gap between design and execution. Work Schedule:

• Standard 40-hour work week, Monday through Friday.

• Occasional extended hours or weekend work may be necessary to meet project deadlines, client demands, or address urgent technical issues, which is common in the construction industry.

• Travel to project sites, client meetings, or other Sundt offices may be required periodically.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Safety-Sensitive" designation implies that while the primary role is office-based, there will be instances requiring site visits where safety protocols are paramount. This blended environment requires adaptability and a strong commitment to safety at all times.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or Talent Acquisition will review applications and conduct a brief phone screen to assess basic qualifications and cultural fit.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A detailed discussion with the Hiring Manager (likely a senior engineering or operations leader) focusing on technical experience, leadership style, and alignment with Sundt's values.

• Technical/Team Interview: Interviews with key team members and peers, potentially including a panel format, to assess technical acumen, problem-solving skills, and collaboration capabilities. This may involve a case study or problem-solving exercise.

• Senior Leadership Interview: A final interview with executive leadership to discuss strategic vision, long-term impact, and overall fit within the company's direction.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Impact: For each project in your portfolio, clearly articulate your specific role, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the quantifiable results achieved (e.g., cost savings, schedule improvements, enhanced safety, successful regulatory approval).

• Process Focus: Emphasize your experience in managing design processes, quality control, team coordination, and stakeholder communication. Showcase examples of process optimization you've driven.

• Technical Depth: Be prepared to discuss the technical aspects of your projects, including design methodologies, engineering principles, and any innovative solutions you've employed.

• Leadership & Management: Provide examples of your leadership style, how you've managed and motivated teams, and your approach to personnel development and conflict resolution.

• Tailor to Sundt: Research Sundt's recent transportation projects and values. Frame your portfolio examples to resonate with their specific needs and priorities.

Challenge Preparation:

• Case Study: Be prepared for a hypothetical scenario related to a transportation design challenge (e.g., an unexpected site condition, a regulatory hurdle, a need for design innovation under tight constraints). Focus on your structured approach to problem-solving, risk assessment, and solution proposal.

• Technical Questions: Expect questions about engineering principles, design standards, construction methods, and relevant software.

• Behavioral Questions: Prepare to answer questions using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to demonstrate your experience in leadership, problem-solving, teamwork, and overcoming obstacles.

📝 Enhancement Note: Sundt's employee-ownership culture suggests interviews will likely assess not only technical and managerial skills but also a candidate's collaborative spirit, commitment to the company's long-term success, and ability to contribute to a positive team environment.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency in industry-standard CAD software such as AutoCAD Civil 3D, MicroStation, or similar platforms is essential for design work and oversight.

• Project Management Software: Experience with platforms like Procore, Oracle Aconex, Autodesk Construction Cloud, or similar systems for managing project documentation, schedules, and communication.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Advanced proficiency in Word, Excel (for budgeting, scheduling, data analysis), PowerPoint (for presentations), and Outlook (for communication).

• BIM Software: Familiarity with Building Information Modeling (BIM) tools and workflows (e.g., Autodesk Revit, Navisworks) for integrated design and construction.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Experience with Excel for data manipulation and analysis, potentially SQL or BI tools like Tableau or Power BI for more advanced reporting and dashboard creation.

• Reporting Systems: Ability to generate and interpret reports on design progress, budget adherence, resource utilization, and quality metrics.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While not a direct sales role, understanding of CRM principles for client management and business development support may be beneficial.

• Automation Tools: Familiarity with workflow automation within project management or design software to improve efficiency.

• Integration Tools: Understanding of how different software systems (e.g., CAD, PM, ERP) integrate to ensure seamless data flow.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on technical leadership and managing design services implies a need for deep familiarity with the software used throughout the design and pre-construction lifecycle, as well as tools for managing project execution and team collaboration.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Skill, Grit, and Purpose: Sundt emphasizes a commitment to being the "most skilled builder in America," valuing deep expertise, perseverance through challenges, and a clear sense of mission in every project.

• Employee Ownership: As a 100% employee-owned company, Sundt fosters a culture of shared responsibility, mutual respect, and a collective drive for success and prosperity for all owners.

• Integrity and Ethics: A strong commitment to doing business ethically and transparently, building trust with clients, communities, and fellow employee-owners.

• Innovation and Continuous Improvement: Encouraging new ideas, exploring new technologies, and consistently seeking ways to improve processes, project outcomes, and overall efficiency.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Sundt likely promotes a collaborative environment where design, pre-construction, operations, and business development teams work in close alignment to ensure seamless project delivery from bid to completion.

• Open Communication: Valuing direct and honest communication, encouraging feedback exchange, and fostering an environment where challenges can be discussed openly to find collective solutions.

• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting the sharing of best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise across teams and projects to elevate the collective skill level of the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's core values, particularly employee ownership and the "skill, grit, and purpose" motto, should be reflected in how candidates present themselves and their approach to problem-solving and teamwork.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Innovation and Practicality: Driving exploration of new technologies and designs while ensuring they are practical, cost-effective, and meet regulatory requirements for transportation projects.

• Managing Diverse Stakeholders: Effectively coordinating with internal teams, clients, regulatory agencies, and the public to ensure alignment and successful project outcomes.

• Navigating Complex Regulations: Staying abreast of and ensuring compliance with ever-evolving local, state, and federal regulations governing transportation infrastructure projects.

• Talent Development and Retention: Attracting and retaining top engineering and design talent in a competitive market, and fostering their growth within Sundt.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Access to specialized training in cutting-edge transportation design techniques, materials, and technologies.

• Leadership Development Programs: Opportunities to hone management, strategic planning, and financial acumen through Sundt's internal leadership development initiatives.

• Industry Conferences & Networking: Participation in key industry events (e.g., ASCE, TRB) to stay current on trends and build professional networks.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to mentor junior professionals and be mentored by senior leaders within the employee-owned structure.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a significant opportunity for professional growth by tackling complex infrastructure challenges within a supportive, employee-owned environment that values continuous learning and development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to leading a design team through the pursuit phase of a major transportation project, focusing on technical strategy and risk identification." (Prepare with examples of how you've contributed to winning bids through technical excellence and foresight.)

• "How do you balance the need for innovative design solutions with the constraints of budget, schedule, and regulatory compliance in transportation projects?" (Focus on your problem-solving methodology and ability to find creative yet practical solutions.)

• "Walk me through a time you had to manage conflicting priorities or strong opinions between different departments (e.g., design vs. operations) on a project. How did you achieve alignment?" (Prepare with a STAR method example demonstrating your collaboration and negotiation skills.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you most about Sundt's employee-ownership model and our commitment to being the 'most skilled builder'?" (Research Sundt's history, values, and recent projects. Connect your own career aspirations and values to theirs.)

• "How do you foster a culture of safety and quality within your design teams?" (Highlight your proactive approach to safety protocols and commitment to delivering high-quality, compliant designs.)

• "Describe your experience in developing and managing design budgets and staffing forecasts. What metrics do you use to track performance?" (Prepare with specific examples of your financial management skills and data-driven approach.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio into 3-4 key projects that best represent your experience in transportation design management. For each project, use a consistent structure: Project Overview, Your Role & Responsibilities, Key Challenges, Solutions Implemented, and Quantifiable Outcomes (budget, schedule, technical innovation, safety).

• Highlight Management: Clearly articulate your management of teams, budgets, schedules, and quality processes, not just your individual technical contributions.

• Visuals: Use clear visuals (renderings, diagrams, photos) where appropriate to illustrate project complexity and your solutions.

• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your portfolio within a set timeframe, focusing on the most impactful aspects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Sundt's emphasis on employee ownership means interviewers will likely probe for signs of collaboration, long-term commitment, and a proactive attitude towards contributing to the company's overall success, beyond just individual job duties.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Transportation Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the Oracle Cloud portal linked.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight experience in transportation engineering, design management, personnel leadership, and budget control. If you have a portfolio, ensure it prominently features case studies demonstrating your impact on transportation infrastructure projects.

• Resume Optimization: Integrate keywords from the job description, such as "Transportation Design," "Technical Leadership," "Engineer of Record," "Budget Management," "Staffing Forecasts," and "Design Quality Management." Quantify achievements whenever possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice answering behavioral and situational questions using the STAR method, focusing on your leadership, problem-solving, and collaboration skills. Be prepared to discuss your experience with relevant software and industry standards.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Sundt's history, values, recent projects (especially in transportation), and employee-ownership model. Understand their approach to safety and quality.

⚠️ 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.

---