Principal Engineer

Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG); Phoenix (AZ); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A regional planning agency in Phoenix seeks a Principal Engineer for its Freeway Life Cycle Program. The role involves managing transportation planning studies, evaluating infrastructure, and coordinating projects. Candidates should have a Bachelor's in Engineering, 5+ years of related experience, and a PE license. Strong communication skills are essential for engaging with stakeholders and presenting findings. This full-time position aims to enhance transportation infrastructure in the region.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in engineering, freeway and roadway design, and/or planning.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license required.
• Comfortable presenting technical information to diverse stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Managing scopes, schedules, and budgets of transportation planning studies.
• Assessing and evaluating transportation infrastructure.
• Developing alternative approaches to transportation needs.
• Coordinating with key stakeholders for project implementation.
• Facilitating public meetings and working group sessions.

Skills

Excellent communication and writing skills

Time management

Technical knowledge presentation

Stakeholder coordination

Proactive attitude

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field

Job description

Principal Engineer (Regional Freeway Program)

Post-date: April 14, 2026

Closes: This position is open until filled.

Status: Full-Time, Exempt

Location: Maricopa Association of Governments, downtown Phoenix, Arizona

About MAG

The Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG) is a group of local governments working together on issues that touch the lives of every resident. We are a regional planning agency that develops solutions in areas such as transportation, environmental and air quality, and human services.

MAG serves a thriving region of 5 million people. Our members include 27 cities and towns, three Native nations, and Maricopa and Pinal counties. Our planning area encompasses more than 10,000 square miles. MAG is the council of governments and the designated metropolitan planning organization for transportation planning for the greater Phoenix metropolitan area.

To learn more visit: www.azmag.gov

The Freeway Engineering Team provides oversight and management for the implementation of the Freeway Life Cycle Program under Propositions 400 and 479. The team plays a key role in the delivery of the program by performing studies, identifying needs, assessing evaluations of transportation infrastructure, and coordinating the delivery of the program with the Arizona Department of Transportation.

The Position

MAG is seeking a skilled transportation engineer to support its efforts in the Transportation Division. As the Principal Engineer, you will focus on activities related to the management and implementation of the Freeway Life Cycle Program.

Responsibilities

• Managing scopes, schedules and budgets of transportation planning studies
• Assessing and evaluating transportation infrastructure design, functionality, cost, schedule, and project risk analysis
• Developing alternative approaches to respond to transportation and traffic needs
• Coordinating with key stakeholders for project design and implementation efforts
• Public meeting presentations and facilitation of working group sessions
• Presenting study outcomes to MAG member agencies and MAG policy committees

The Candidate

As a successful Principal Engineer, you bring experience leading planning level analysis, reviewing engineering and design‑specific solutions, and have experience with managing consultants or consultant teams, preferably in a large urban area.

You are comfortable presenting complex technical information to diverse stakeholders, including members of the public and policymakers, and experience coordinating with internal and external agency partners. Strong writing skills are a plus.

Core Skills

• Excellent communication and writing skills, time management, note taking, and highly organized
• Presenting and conveying technical knowledge to a diverse set of stakeholders, the public and policy makers
• Coordinating with internal and external stakeholders or staff
• Prioritizing workload and responding quickly and accurately
• Anticipating needs and being proactive
• Being self‑motivated with a desire to learn and contribute while being detail oriented

Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Engineering or related field
• At least five years of related work experience in engineering, freeway and roadway design and/or planning
• Any equivalent combination of training, education, and experience that provides the required skills, knowledge and abilities

Required Licenses or Certifications

• Professional Engineer (PE) license

The Maricopa Association of Governments is an Equal Opportunity Employer. During the selection process any applicant requiring accommodation for a disability should advise the Human Resources Division by calling [phone].