CHICAGO | Preliminary Engineering Project Manager

LVI Associates; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 140,000 - 200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work environment

Performance-based bonus

Dental & medical coverage

Job summary

LVI Associates is seeking a Senior Transportation Project Manager to lead IDOT, Tollway, and local agency Phase I studies in Illinois. You will shape project strategy, manage multi-disciplinary teams, and mentor engineers while maintaining strong client relationships.

This role offers autonomy, a hybrid work arrangement, and access to modern design tools as you guide environmental documentation, planning, and corridor improvements for high-profile transportation projects across the region.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering required.
• PE license required or actively pursuing licensure.
• Senior-level experience in transportation engineering and management.
• Experience delivering IDOT, Tollway, and local agency Phase I work.
• Proficiency with MicroStation/OpenRoads/GEOPAK.

Responsibilities

• Lead roadway alignments, transportation studies, feasibility analyses, and conceptual alternatives.
• Manage Phase I projects for IDOT, Tollway, and local agency clients.
• Oversee scope, budget, schedule, staffing, and deliverable quality.

Skills

Project management

Client-facing

Team leadership

Strategic planning

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering

Professional Engineer (PE) license

Tools

MicroStation

OpenRoads

GEOPAK

Job description

Are you ready to take the lead on some of Illinois' most impactful transportation projects while helping shape the future of a growing team?

Our client, a nationally recognized engineering consulting firm, is seeking an experienced Senior Transportation Project Manager to lead complex IDOT, Illinois Tollway, and local agency Phase I projects. This is an opportunity to step into a highly visible leadership role where you'll influence project strategy, strengthen client relationships, mentor engineers, and help deliver transportation solutions that improve communities across the region.

Whether you're currently managing major transportation studies or looking to expand your influence beyond technical execution, this position offers the autonomy, support, and career growth to take the next step.

Why Consider This Opportunity?

• Lead high-profile IDOT, Tollway, and municipal transportation projects.
• Collaborate directly with agency leaders, stakeholders, and decision-makers.
• Influence project strategy from planning through environmental documentation.
• Mentor and develop the next generation of transportation professionals.
• Join a team with a strong backlog of work and long-term project stability.
• Enjoy a hybrid work environment and flexible scheduling.
• Access modern design tools, resources, and ongoing technology investments.
• Position yourself for continued growth into higher-level leadership responsibilities.

What You'll Be Doing

Project Leadership & Planning

• Lead roadway alignments, transportation studies, feasibility analyses, and conceptual alternatives.
• Manage Phase I projects for IDOT, the Illinois Tollway, and local agency clients.
• Oversee project scope, budget, schedule, staffing, and deliverable quality.
• Coordinate multidisciplinary teams to successfully deliver project objectives.

Environmental & Technical Delivery

• Support NEPA documentation efforts, including Environmental Assessments (EA) and Environmental Impact Statements (EIS).
• Prepare technical reports, cost estimates, and approval documentation.
• Guide complex transportation planning and corridor improvement initiatives.

Client & Stakeholder Management

• Build and maintain strong relationships with agency and municipal clients.
• Participate in public involvement programs and stakeholder meetings.
• Serve as a key point of contact throughout the project lifecycle.

Team Development

• Mentor junior engineers and project staff.
• Support technical development and career growth within the team.
• Help drive the long-term vision and continued growth of the transportation practice.

What We're Looking For

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering or a related field.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license.
• 10+ years of transportation engineering experience.
• Strong background in roadway, highway, and bridge-related projects.
• Significant experience delivering IDOT, Tollway, and local agency Phase I work.
• Experience with MicroStation, OpenRoads, and GEOPAK.
• Proven project management and client-facing experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's Degree with a transportation focus.
• Experience with Environmental Assessments (EA) and Environmental Impact Statements (EIS).
• Business development and client relationship management experience.

Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $140,000 - $200,000

Compensation will be based on experience, qualifications, and location.

Additional benefits include:

• Performance-based bonus opportunity
• Hybrid work environment
• Flexible scheduling
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Generous paid time off and holiday schedule
• Paid parental leave
• Wellness programs
• Tuition reimbursement
• Professional development and continuing education support
• Industry conference and professional organization participation
• Life and disability insurance
• Pet insurance

Take the Next Step

If you're looking for an opportunity to lead meaningful transportation projects, work alongside respected industry professionals, and play a significant role in the growth of a successful transportation practice, we'd love to connect.