Senior Civil Design Engineer / Group Leader - Freight Rail Team
David Evans and Associates Inc (DEA's) Transit and Rail Group is actively seeking a Senior Civil Design Engineer / Group Leader to join our Freight Rail Team. This position can be based in one of our rail offices in Tacoma, Salt Lake City, Portland, or Denver. The ideal candidate will be a highly motivated leader and self-starter, bringing extensive experience and technical expertise to a range of multi-disciplinary rail projects. In this role, you will leverage your specialized skills to lead a team in performing design tasks, transforming innovative concept designs into detailed construction drawings and comprehensive technical specifications. This is an excellent opportunity for those eager to apply their technical expertise and contribute to sustainable transportation solutions. Join us in making a positive impact on the future of transit and rail systems!
Key Responsibilities:
- Technical Leadership: Serve as a design lead and provide technical expertise on railroad or civil engineering/design projects, including utilities, grading, drainage, erosion control, roadway design, site development, terminal, track design, and more. Oversee all aspects of project design and ensure compliance with client standards, codes, and regulations, from feasibility analysis through to construction activities.
- Construction Documentation Preparation: Prepare, review, and complete detailed construction documents, plans using Bentley OpenRail Designer or MicroStation software, technical reports, specifications, and accurate cost estimates for various projects, ensuring thoroughness and clarity.
- Project Management and Collaboration: Manage projects to ensure timely, budget-conscious, high-quality deliverables that meet or exceed industry standards.
- Quality Assurance: Conduct technical reviews of design calculations, estimates, specifications, and plans produced by team members. Implement DEA's quality assurance and control procedures to maintain high standards throughout the project lifecycle.
- Site Engagement: Lead or participate in project meetings, conduct site visits and field inspections to ensure project alignment with design specifications and client goals.
- Post-Design Support: Provide construction support services, address RFIs, review submittals, assist with as-built documentation, and perform field observations to maintain design integrity during construction.
- Coordination: Collaborate with project teams and stakeholders across all project phases, including coordination with structural, architectural, geotechnical, surveying, and other disciplines. Resolve design issues proactively and foster positive client and team relationships.
- Business Development: Lead or participate in marketing and contracting activities. Estimate, plan, and allocate staff resources for current and future projects.
- Leadership and Mentoring: Manage and mentor junior engineers and project managers, supporting their professional development and project contributions.
- Other duties as assigned.
Basic Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in civil engineering or a related field.
- Professional Engineer (PE) license.
- Minimum of 10 years' experience in civil engineering design, focusing on freight rail land development projects. Experience within the railroad engineering industry and familiarity with design guidelines and criteria.
- Strong communication skills and ability to work collaboratively.
- Ability to travel periodically for client visits, business development, and project work.
- Experience delivering projects for BNSF, UPRR, CPKC, NS, and/or industry rail.
- Proven track record in winning and delivering projects and building transportation business.
- Active participation in an employee-owned culture.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and communication tools.
- Excellent communication, attention to detail, organizational skills, and technical writing abilities.
- Ability to supervise a team of professionals and technicians.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Proficiency in AutoCAD, Civil3D, MicroStation, and/or Open Roads.
- Preference for Texas location or proximity to clients.
- Strong client relationship skills and recognized technical expertise.
Benefits:
- Comprehensive health coverage including medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance.
- Financial wellness programs including HSA and employer contributions.
- Support for professional development and continuing education.
- Work-life balance benefits including PTO, holiday pay, and flexible work schedules.
- Retirement plan (401k).
- Holistic Wellbeing Program.
- Career growth opportunities with mentorship and support.
- Potential salary range: $130,000 - $200,000 depending on location and experience.
About DEA:
DEA provides planning, design, engineering, surveying, and construction oversight for transportation projects, working with Class I railroads, ports, and public agencies to develop cost-effective, sustainable solutions for freight and passenger rail systems and other transportation needs.