Bridge Practice Team Lead (Hybrid) – ESOP & Growth

GRAEF; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 135,000 - 165,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Salary range $135k-$165k

Training & Leadership Development

ESOP

Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance

Life Insurance

Disability Insurance

Tuition Reimbursement

Paid Time Off

Retirement Savings Plan

Parental Leave

Academic/Professional Development

Community Involvement

Job summary

GRAEF in Chicago, IL seeks a Bridge Practice Team Leader to manage staff, lead business development, and guide structural bridge design per IDOT/Tollway requirements. PE is required; SE is highly preferred or obtainable within 1 year. Strong client interaction and leadership are essential for growing a high-impact bridge group.

The role offers a hybrid work model with competitive compensation and an extensive benefits package, including ESOP, training, and community engagement opportunities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering with Structural emphasis.
• Master’s degree in Structural Engineering preferred.
• Minimum of 8 years of practical experience in the structural design of bridges using IDOT standards.
• PE required.
• SE highly preferred, or ability to obtain within 1 year.
• Experience managing a group would be considered a plus.
• Good communication skills and a proven track record in successfully interacting with clients and internal team members.

Responsibilities

• Manage current staff and assist with growing the bridge group.
• Lead and participate in business development activities, including proposal preparation, project interviews/presentations, and client management.
• Develop new business opportunities by strengthening relationships with existing clients and creating new client connections.
• Represent the firm at industry events, professional associations, and community activities to enhance visibility and market presence.
• Project engineering and management including: project oversight, setting priorities and developing objectives, project financial management as well as hands‑on involvement in the design process for bridges, per IDOT and Tollway requirements.
• The ability to serve as a technical resource for bridge team members.

Skills

PE

SE

Bridge design

IDOT standards

CDOT experience

Business development

Leadership

Client management

Communication

Education

B.S. Civil Engineering (Structural emphasis)

M.S. Structural Engineering preferred

Job description

GRAEF in Chicago, IL seeks a Bridge Practice Team Leader to manage staff, lead business development, and guide structural bridge design per IDOT/Tollway requirements. PE is required; SE is highly preferred or obtainable within 1 year. Strong client interaction and leadership are essential for growing a high-impact bridge group.

The role offers a hybrid work model with competitive compensation and an extensive benefits package, including ESOP, training, and community engagement opportunities.