Project Manager- Highways Roads

GHD; San Jose (CA); Hybrid; USD 103,000 - 172,000; Full time

Job summary

GHD in the United States seeks a Project Manager – Highways/Roads to lead multi-disciplinary teams on complex transportation projects from planning through construction. You will coordinate with public and private sector clients, manage budgets and schedules, and ensure quality while mentoring staff and pursuing new business.

A California or Arizona Civil Engineer license is required. The role supports a hybrid work model with work performed in California or Phoenix offices, and across multiple

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in transportation project management.
• Registered Civil Engineer in CA or AZ.
• Proficiency with project management software (MS Project, Earned-Value tracking).
• Strong knowledge of Caltrans and AASHTO standards; PS&E package development experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead planning, design, and delivery of highways, roads, bridges, and related infrastructure.
• Manage budgets, schedules, and resources; monitor performance and risks.
• Develop stakeholder engagement strategies with clients, agencies, and communities.
• Mentor multidisciplinary teams and coordinate multi-office delivery.
• Ensure compliance with standards and quality requirements; pursue innovation and best practices.

Skills

Project leadership

Client engagement

Budget management

Team mentoring

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering

Tools

MS Project

Earned-Value tracking

Job description

Bring your curiosity and determination to make a positive impact on the future of transport, and we’ll help you go all the way.

Shape the Future of Transportation with Us

Join a dynamic team of transportation professionals dedicated to delivering innovative, sustainable, and community-focused infrastructure solutions. As a Project Manager, you’ll lead multidisciplinary teams on complex highway, roadway, and active transportation projects, collaborating with public and private sector clients to deliver impactful results from concept through construction.

Who are we looking for?

GHD’s US West Region seeks an experienced and driven Project Manager – Highways/Roads to support and grow our Highways, Roads, Bridges practice throughout the California, Arizona and the US West. We’re looking for a proactive leader with a passion for delivering high-quality projects, mentoring teams, and building lasting client relationships.

Location

Position can be based in any of our California offices (Irvine, Long Beach, Los Angeles, San Diego, Fresno, Concord, Santa Rosa, Roseville, San Francisco, Sacramento, San Luis Obispo, Redding, or Eureka) or Phoenix, Arizona.

Our Hybrid Work Model

Be part of the dynamic culture! Our workplace thrives on a hybrid model, combining in-office collaboration and flexibility. Join us in the office three days a week to contribute, connect and excel in our vibrant environment.

Team Responsibilities

• Project Leadership & Delivery: Oversee the planning, design, and delivery of transportation projects, including highways, interchanges, local roads, roundabouts, trails, and bridges. Ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.
• Client & Stakeholder Engagement: Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, agencies, and stakeholders. Develop and implement stakeholder engagement strategies to foster positive relationships and ensure project success.
• Team Management & Development: Lead and mentor multidisciplinary project teams, fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment. Support staff development through coaching, training, and performance feedback.
• Project Controls & Financial Management: Develop and manage project budgets, schedules, and resources. Monitor project performance, prepare progress reports, and proactively address risks and issues.
• Technical Excellence: Provide technical oversight and quality assurance for project deliverables. Ensure compliance with Caltrans, AASHTO, and local agency standards, as well as PS&E package development requirements.
• Business Development: Lead or support proposal development, client presentations, and interviews. Identify and pursue new business opportunities with existing and prospective clients.
• Innovation & Best Practices: Champion the adoption of innovative solutions, digital tools, and industry best practices to enhance project delivery and client value.
• Change & Risk Management: Implement structured change management and risk mitigation strategies to ensure successful project outcomes.
• Professional Development: Actively participate in industry organizations (e.g., ASCE, APWA, WTS) and pursue continuing education to stay current with emerging trends and best practices.

Education

• Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering or related field.

Experience

• 8+ years of experience in transportation project management, with a strong background in planning, design and delivery of highway and roadway projects.
• Registered Civil Engineer in the State of California or Arizona Required.
• Proven experience managing projects for Caltrans, local agencies, and federally funded programs.
• Proficiency with project management software and tools (e.g. MS Project, Earned-Value tracking, etc.).
• Strong knowledge of Caltrans and AASHTO standards, and experience with PS&E package development.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and organizational skills.
• Experience with alternative delivery methods (e.g., Design-Build, CMGC) is a plus.
• Experience managing multi-office or multi-disciplinary teams is preferred.
• Experience working in a consulting environment and managing multiple concurrent projects is preferred.

As a multicultural organization, we encourage individual achievement and recognize the strength of a diverse workforce. GHD is an equal opportunity employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants without regard to race; color; religion; genetic information; national origin; sex (including same sex); sexual orientation; gender identity; pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; age; disability or handicap; citizenship status; service member status; or any other category protected by federal, state, or local law.

Salary Range: $103,000- $172,000 based on experience