Transportation Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Transportation Design Manager

Company: Valdes Architecture & Engineering

Location: Lombard, Illinois, United States

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Engineering / Transportation Design Management

Date Posted: 2026-06-24

Experience Level: 7+ Years (Mid-Senior Level)

Remote Status: Hybrid (Implied by office location and flexible work arrangements)

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage the design and delivery of complex transportation infrastructure projects, focusing on roadway, highway, and tollway improvements.

• Oversee project teams, ensuring adherence to quality standards, budget constraints, and project timelines from planning through final design (PS&E).

• Serve as a primary client liaison and stakeholder interface, fostering strong relationships with public agencies and private clients.

• Drive business development initiatives, support proposal efforts, and contribute to the strategic growth of the firm's transportation practice in the Midwest.

• Mentor and develop junior engineering staff, promoting technical excellence and a culture of continuous improvement in transportation design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role of Transportation Design Manager at Valdes Architecture & Engineering bridges technical leadership with business development. While the core focus is on managing transportation design projects, significant emphasis is placed on client relationship management, team mentorship, and contributing to the expansion of the firm's transportation sector, particularly within the Midwest region and with agencies like IDOT and WisDOT. The hybrid work arrangement is inferred from the mention of flexible work arrangements and the specific office location, suggesting a balance between remote work and in-office collaboration.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Manage and direct all phases of transportation engineering projects, including but not limited to roadway, highway, tollway, drainage, grading, and site development infrastructure.

• Lead project teams through the complete design lifecycle, from concept development and feasibility studies to the preparation of final construction plans, specifications, and estimates (PS&E).

• Conduct and review detailed engineering calculations, technical reports, and comprehensive project documentation required for project approval and construction.

• Ensure seamless coordination and collaboration with internal multidisciplinary teams, including civil, structural, electrical, and environmental engineering departments.

• Act as the main point of contact for clients, regulatory agencies (e.g., IDOT, WisDOT), and other project stakeholders, managing expectations and communication throughout project execution.

• Implement rigorous project controls to ensure projects are delivered on schedule, within allocated budgets, and in strict compliance with all applicable design standards, agency requirements, and legal regulations.

• Provide technical guidance, mentorship, and professional development opportunities to junior transportation engineers and designers, fostering a high-performance team environment and upholding quality control standards.

• Actively participate in and lead business development efforts, including proposal preparation, presentations, and client meetings, to secure new projects and expand the firm's client base.

• Contribute to strategic planning for the transportation practice, including resource allocation, workload forecasting, and identifying opportunities for innovation and service enhancement.

• Maintain and deepen expertise in current industry best practices, emerging technologies, and evolving design standards within the transportation engineering sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical project oversight, team leadership, and crucial business development functions. The emphasis on "leading project teams through all phases of design and delivery" and "ensuring projects are completed on schedule, within budget" points to strong project management capabilities required. The explicit mention of "supporting proposal development, project pursuits, and business development initiatives" indicates that client acquisition and relationship management are integral to the role's success and growth potential within the firm.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from an accredited university.

Experience: Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in transportation engineering and design.

Required Skills:

• Proven expertise in the design of transportation infrastructure projects such as roadways, highways, tollways, drainage systems, and grading & site development.

• Professional Engineer (PE) license in the state of Illinois or the ability to obtain licensure within one year of hire.

• Proficiency in industry-standard transportation design software, including MicroStation, OpenRoads Designer, Civil 3D, or equivalent platforms.

• Solid understanding of fundamental transportation engineering principles, relevant design standards (federal, state, local), and comprehensive project delivery processes.

• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and client relationship management skills, with a demonstrated ability to build rapport and trust.

• Demonstrated leadership capabilities with experience in managing project teams and mentoring junior engineers.

• Ability to effectively manage multiple concurrent projects, prioritize tasks, and adapt to a dynamic, fast-paced work environment.

• Familiarity with Midwest transportation agency standards, permitting processes, and funding programs, with specific experience with Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) and/or Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) being highly advantageous. Preferred Skills:

• Experience in supporting and leading project pursuits, client development activities, and contributing to the strategic growth of a transportation engineering practice.

• Strong understanding of contract administration and construction phase support for transportation projects.

• Familiarity with traffic analysis and simulation software.

• Experience with public outreach and stakeholder engagement processes for transportation projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a PE license within one year of hire, coupled with a minimum of 7 years of experience, positions this role as a mid-to-senior level management position. The specific mention of IDOT and WisDOT experience is a critical differentiator, signaling a strong preference for candidates with established relationships and working knowledge within these key regional transportation authorities. The emphasis on "building lasting relationships" and "supporting project pursuits" underscores the business development aspect of this role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase of successfully managed transportation design projects, detailing scope, budget, timeline, and client satisfaction.

• Examples of complex technical challenges overcome, demonstrating problem-solving skills and innovative design solutions.

• Documentation of project delivery processes, including planning, design, coordination, and quality control methodologies.

• Evidence of leadership in team management, mentorship, and fostering a collaborative project environment.

• Case studies highlighting successful client and agency relationship management, including navigating approvals and stakeholder consensus. Process Documentation:

• Detailed workflows for managing design projects from conception through PS&E, emphasizing efficiency and quality assurance.

• Methodologies for interdisciplinary coordination and communication to ensure seamless project execution.

• Strategies for budget tracking, schedule adherence, and risk mitigation in transportation projects.

• Processes for mentoring junior staff, including skill development plans and performance feedback mechanisms.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role of this caliber, a portfolio should not just list projects but demonstrate how projects were managed and delivered successfully. Candidates should be prepared to articulate their project management methodologies, their approach to team leadership, and specific examples of how they have contributed to business growth and client retention in previous roles, particularly within the context of public agency projects.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $100,000 - $175,000 per year.

Explanation of Range: This range reflects the experience level (7+ years), technical expertise, management responsibilities, and the strategic importance of the role in driving business growth within the transportation sector. It is benchmarked against similar positions in the Chicago metropolitan area and the broader Midwest region for engineering management roles.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Benefits package, likely including health, dental, vision insurance, life insurance, and disability coverage.

• Retirement savings plan (e.g., 401(k)) with potential company match.

• Paid Time Off (PTO) including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

• Professional development opportunities, including training, conferences, and support for continuing education.

• Flexible work arrangements, allowing for a hybrid work model that balances remote work with in-office collaboration.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses or profit sharing.

Working Hours: Standard full-time work week, typically 40 hours per week, with potential for extended hours based on project demands. The mention of flexible work arrangements suggests some adaptability in daily scheduling.

📝 Enhancement Note: The stated salary range of $100,000 - $175,000 per year is a broad but reasonable estimate for a Transportation Design Manager in the Chicago metropolitan area, considering the required 7+ years of experience, PE license, and management responsibilities. This range aligns with industry benchmarks for similar roles in engineering firms of Valdes Architecture & Engineering's size and specialty. The "comprehensive benefits" and "flexible work arrangements" are standard offerings but important to highlight for candidates seeking work-life balance and robust support.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Architecture & Engineering Services, specifically focusing on Transportation Infrastructure.

Company Size: Valdes Architecture & Engineering is likely a mid-sized firm, given the need for practice growth and the multidisciplinary nature of their services. This size often offers a balance of stability and opportunity for individual impact.

Founded: While the founding date isn't specified, the company's established presence suggests a history of delivering projects and building a reputation in the Midwest market.

Team Structure:

• The Transportation Design practice is likely composed of experienced engineers, designers, and support staff, potentially organized by project or specialization.

• The Design Manager will report to a higher-level executive or director within the firm's engineering division, overseeing a team of project engineers and designers.

• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, requiring close coordination with architectural, structural, and other engineering disciplines within Valdes. Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making is paramount, utilizing project performance metrics, client feedback, and industry best practices.

• Workflow optimization and process improvement are key to efficient project delivery and client satisfaction.

• Emphasis on technical excellence, quality assurance, and adherence to agency-specific standards (IDOT, WisDOT) in all design outputs.

Company Website: valdeseng.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The context of being an established, multidisciplinary firm in the architecture and engineering sector implies a professional, project-driven culture. The specific focus on transportation infrastructure and the Midwest region suggests a deep understanding of local agencies and project typologies. A mid-sized firm often fosters a more personal culture than a large corporation, where employees can have more direct influence and visibility.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a management-level role within the transportation engineering discipline. It requires a blend of advanced technical expertise, project leadership, and business acumen. The scope includes direct project management, team supervision, and contributing to the strategic direction of the transportation practice.

Reporting Structure: The Transportation Design Manager will likely report to a Senior Project Manager, Director of Engineering, or a Principal within the firm. They will, in turn, manage and mentor a team of transportation engineers and designers.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct impact on revenue generation through successful project execution and business development, as well as on operational efficiency through effective team management and process optimization. The success of the transportation practice is heavily influenced by the Design Manager's ability to deliver high-quality projects and foster strong client relationships.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advancement to Senior Design Manager, Director of Transportation Engineering, or Principal roles, with increased responsibility for business strategy and firm-wide operations.

• Specialization in niche areas of transportation engineering (e.g., traffic engineering, intelligent transportation systems, transit design) through continued professional development.

• Opportunity to lead major regional or national transportation initiatives as the firm's practice grows.

• Development of leadership and business development skills through hands-on experience and firm-sponsored training.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth trajectory for a Transportation Design Manager in a firm like Valdes is typically upward, moving from project management to practice leadership. The emphasis on business development suggests a clear path towards roles with greater strategic and financial responsibility. The firm's size also implies that an individual's contributions can be highly visible, accelerating career progression if performance is strong.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Lombard, Illinois, implying a professional office environment common for architecture and engineering firms. The "Hybrid" work arrangement suggests a portion of the work can be performed remotely, while in-office presence is expected for team collaboration, client meetings, and project reviews.

Office Location(s): Lombard, Illinois, United States. This location provides access to the broader Chicago metropolitan area and the Midwest region, facilitating client and agency interactions.

Workspace Context:

• A collaborative office setting equipped with industry-standard design software and technology.

• Opportunities for direct interaction with multidisciplinary teams, fostering knowledge exchange and integrated design solutions.

• Access to project management tools and resources to support efficient workflow and communication.

• A professional atmosphere conducive to focused design work and client engagement.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is typical, with the understanding that project deadlines may require occasional extended hours. The "flexible work arrangements" suggest some autonomy in managing daily schedules, provided project commitments are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work model is a key aspect of the modern work environment for engineering professionals. For a Design Manager, this means balancing the need for face-to-face collaboration, team mentorship, and client meetings with the flexibility of remote work for focused design tasks and analysis. The Lombard location is strategic for serving clients and agencies throughout the populous and infrastructure-rich Midwest.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and cover letter to assess qualifications, experience, and alignment with the role's requirements, particularly concerning transportation design and management.

• Technical Interview: Discussion focused on your transportation engineering expertise, project management methodologies, and experience with specific design software (MicroStation, OpenRoads Designer, Civil 3D). Expect questions on design principles, agency standards (IDOT/WisDOT), and problem-solving scenarios.

• Portfolio Review: Presentation and discussion of your project portfolio, highlighting key transportation projects, your role in them, design challenges, and successful outcomes. Be prepared to articulate your management approach and leadership style.

• Managerial/Cultural Fit Interview: Conversation with senior leadership to assess leadership capabilities, client relationship skills, business development aptitude, and alignment with Valdes' company culture and values.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a principal or senior executive to finalize any terms and confirm mutual fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate a selection of 3-5 diverse transportation projects that best showcase your project management, technical design, and leadership skills.

• For each project, clearly define your specific role and responsibilities, the project's objectives, key challenges faced, your solutions, and the ultimate outcomes (e.g., on-time/on-budget delivery, client satisfaction, innovative design elements).

• Quantify your achievements whenever possible (e.g., budget managed, team size led, percentage of cost savings, improvements in efficiency).

• Be ready to discuss your process for project planning, risk management, quality control, and team coordination.

• Prepare to speak about your experience with agency requirements and client relationship management, providing specific examples. Challenge Preparation:

• Anticipate case study questions related to managing a challenging project, resolving interdisciplinary conflicts, or addressing scope creep and budget overruns.

• Prepare to discuss your approach to mentoring junior staff and fostering a culture of technical excellence.

• Be ready to articulate your strategy for business development and expanding a firm's client base in the transportation sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely be rigorous, assessing technical depth, project leadership, and business development potential. Candidates should prepare specific examples that demonstrate their ability to manage complex projects, lead teams effectively, and contribute to the firm's growth, particularly in relation to Midwest transportation agencies. A well-prepared portfolio is crucial for showcasing practical experience and management capabilities.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: MicroStation, OpenRoads Designer, Civil 3D (Proficiency is a requirement). These are essential for the detailed design and drafting of transportation infrastructure.

• Project Management Software: Tools for scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking (e.g., MS Project, Primavera P6, or internal firm systems).

• Collaboration Platforms: Tools for team communication and document sharing (e.g., Microsoft Teams, Slack, SharePoint).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Reporting Tools: Standard office suites (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite - Excel, PowerPoint) for generating technical reports, financial summaries, and presentations.

• Data Analysis Tools: Proficiency in Excel for data manipulation and analysis related to project performance, cost estimation, and resource planning.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: Experience with Customer Relationship Management systems for tracking client interactions, opportunities, and business development pipeline.

• Proposal Management Tools: Software or structured processes for developing and submitting project proposals.

• Document Management Systems: Systems for organizing, storing, and retrieving project documentation and specifications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technical skills revolve around CAD software critical for transportation design. Beyond that, proficiency in project management and collaboration tools is essential for effective team leadership and project delivery. Experience with CRM and proposal management tools will be highly valued given the business development component of the role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Technical Excellence: A commitment to delivering high-quality, technically sound engineering solutions that meet or exceed industry standards.

• Client Focus: Prioritizing client needs and satisfaction through effective communication, responsive service, and delivering on project commitments.

• Collaboration: Fostering a team-oriented environment where interdisciplinary cooperation and knowledge sharing are encouraged.

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

• Innovation: Encouraging creative problem-solving and the adoption of new technologies and methodologies to improve design and project delivery.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively engaging with architectural, structural, and other engineering disciplines to ensure cohesive project design.

• Open Communication: Maintaining transparent and frequent communication with project teams, clients, and stakeholders.

• Mentorship Culture: Promoting a supportive environment where senior staff guide and develop junior engineers, fostering a continuous learning atmosphere.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture likely emphasizes professionalism, technical rigor, and client service, common in established engineering firms. The "growth" aspect of the company's mission suggests a dynamic environment where contributions are recognized and rewarded, encouraging proactive participation and team-building.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Project Demands: Effectively managing multiple complex transportation projects simultaneously, each with unique client requirements and agency standards.

• Navigating Agency Regulations: Staying current with and ensuring compliance with evolving IDOT, WisDOT, and federal transportation regulations and design criteria.

• Client Relationship Management: Maintaining and strengthening relationships with public sector clients and agencies who are critical to securing future work.

• Talent Development: Attracting, retaining, and mentoring skilled transportation engineers in a competitive market to support practice growth.

• Business Development Growth: Successfully identifying and securing new project opportunities to expand the firm's transportation practice footprint in the Midwest.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific transportation design areas or emerging technologies.

• Leadership Development Programs: Training and mentorship focused on enhancing project management, client relations, and business development skills.

• Industry Conferences and Seminars: Participation in professional events to stay abreast of industry trends, network with peers, and represent the firm.

• Professional Certifications: Support for pursuing advanced certifications or professional development units relevant to transportation engineering and management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenges revolve around the dual demands of technical project execution and strategic business growth. Success in this role depends on the candidate's ability to manage complex stakeholder environments, drive team performance, and actively contribute to the firm's expansion within the transportation sector. The growth opportunities are directly tied to overcoming these challenges and demonstrating leadership.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to managing a large-scale highway design project from initiation to final PS&E. What key phases and deliverables would you prioritize, and how would you ensure quality and adherence to budget?" (Focus on project management methodology, risk assessment, and quality control).

• "How have you successfully managed and grown client relationships with public transportation agencies like IDOT or WisDOT? Provide specific examples of strategies you've employed." (Focus on client management, agency liaison, and business development).

• "Discuss a time you had to lead a project team through a significant technical challenge or a period of intense pressure. What was your strategy, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on leadership, problem-solving, and team motivation). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you specifically about Valdes Architecture & Engineering and our transportation practice? How do you see your skills contributing to our growth?" (Demonstrate research into the firm and alignment with their mission).

• "Describe your leadership style and how you mentor junior engineers. How do you foster a culture of technical excellence and collaboration within your team?" (Focus on team development and cultural fit).

• "How do you stay current with evolving transportation design standards and agency requirements in the Midwest?" (Showcase commitment to continuous learning and industry awareness). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure your portfolio presentation to clearly articulate the project's context, your specific contributions as a manager, the challenges, your strategic approach, and the quantifiable results.

• Be prepared to walk through a sample set of construction plans or a technical report, explaining your role in its development and quality assurance.

• Use visual aids (e.g., project photos, simplified diagrams) to illustrate complex design concepts or project scopes.

• Practice your delivery to ensure you can clearly and concisely convey your experience and qualifications within the allotted time.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to speak extensively about their experience with public agency projects, particularly IDOT and WisDOT, as this is a key differentiator. The interview will likely assess not only technical and project management skills but also the candidate's potential to contribute to business development and leadership within the firm's transportation practice.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Transportation Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on jobs.lever.co.

• Tailor your resume to highlight your experience in transportation design management, project delivery (from planning to PS&E), client relationship management, and team leadership. Use keywords from the job description such as "roadway design," "highway design," "IDOT standards," "project management," and "PE license."

• Prepare a concise cover letter that articulates your specific interest in Valdes Architecture & Engineering, your qualifications for this role, and how your experience aligns with the company's focus on Midwest transportation infrastructure.

• Assemble your portfolio showcasing 3-5 key transportation projects. Be ready to discuss your role, challenges, solutions, and outcomes for each, focusing on management and technical aspects.

• Research Valdes Architecture & Engineering thoroughly, understanding their project portfolio, company values, and strategic goals, particularly within their transportation practice. Prepare to discuss how you can contribute to their continued growth and success.

⚠️ 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.