Senior Project Manager Engineer (Freight Rail)

HDR; Sacramento (CA); On-site; USD 137,445 - 223,125; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits package

Employee ownership opportunities

Job summary

A leading engineering firm in Sacramento is looking for a Senior Project Manager Engineer to manage railroad projects focusing on freight rail. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree, 10 years of experience including 5 in project management, and a PE license. Responsibilities include client interaction, project supervision, and multidisciplinary team coordination. Strong knowledge of software tools like AutoCAD and Primavera is essential. The role offers a comprehensive benefits package and competitive compensation based on skills and experience, ranging from $137,445 to $223,125.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of related experience with at least 5 years of project management experience.
• Must have a Professional Engineering (PE) license.
• At least 15 years of experience within the railroad engineering industry is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Take responsibility for client and design team management of railroad projects.
• Plan and supervise multidisciplinary projects.
• Serve as Project Manager on various transportation projects.

Skills

Project Management

Client and Design-Team Management

Multidisciplinary Project Coordination

Communication Skills

Organization Skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in a related field

Tools

AutoCAD

Microsoft Office

Primavera P3

Prolog

MicroStation

Job description

Join to apply for the Senior Project Manager Engineer (Freight Rail) role at HDR

At HDR, we specialize in engineering, architecture, environmental, and construction services. We create a foundation for progress through multidisciplinary teams that include scientists, economists, builders, analysts, and artists, all working together to design and create resilient transportation systems.

Overview

As a member of HDR’s Transportation Business Group, you’ll help shape the systems that move people and goods safely, efficiently, and sustainably. From highways and bridges to freight rail, your work will directly support economic vitality, public safety, and quality of life. This role is an opportunity to lead progress and leave a legacy of smarter, more connected transportation networks.

Responsibilities

• Take responsibility for all aspects of client and design‑team management of Class I railroad, freight, short line, commuter, and rail transit projects.
• Plan, direct, supervise, and monitor all aspects of multidisciplinary projects with high technical complexity and a large project staff.
• Produce and coordinate several projects concurrently.
• Serve as Project Manager on small, medium, and large transportation projects.
• Act as a point of contact between the client and HDR, enhancing client relationships through contractual, design, and production meetings.
• Participate in proposal development and other marketing activities as a seller‑doer pursuit champion or support role.
• Implement QA/QC procedures and perform detailed QC reviews of railway projects.
• Coordinate staffing and workload with the Freight Rail Market Sector Leader to deliver on schedule.
• Supervise project staff, mentor less‑experienced Project Managers, and execute training as established by strategic plans.
• Perform other duties as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

• Minimum 15 years of experience within the railroad engineering industry and managing multidisciplinary railway projects and teams.
• Construction inspection or construction management experience.
• Professional Engineering (PE) license.
• Knowledge of Class I railroad public projects and engineering requirements.
• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.
• Ability to handle multiple assignments and travel for client meetings, site visits, and construction management.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, engineering software (e.g., AutoCAD, MicroStation), estimating and scheduling software (e.g., Primavera P3), and project management software (e.g., Prolog).
• Must pass a background check.
• Must be legally able to work in the United States and have a valid U.S. Driver’s License.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
• 10 years of related experience with at least 5 years of project management experience.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office, estimating and scheduling software, and project management software.
• Ability to interact with various design teams and excellent organizational, project management, and communication skills.
• A commitment to being an active participant of our employee‑owned culture.

Benefits & Compensation

We provide a comprehensive benefits package promoting employee ownership, health, and performance. The expected compensation range for this full‑time position is $137,445 – $223,125, depending on skills, experience, education, and location.

Job Details

• Primary Location: United States – California – Sacramento
• Other Locations: United States – California – Walnut Creek; United States – California – Folsom
• Industry: Freight Rail
• Schedule: Full‑time
• Employee Status: Regular
• Business Class: Rail and Transit Systems

At HDR, we are committed to the principles of employment equity. We are an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants, regardless of criminal histories, arrest and conviction records.