TXDOT Client Service Leader

GFT; Houston (TX); Hybrid; USD 225,000 - 275,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits package including wellness programs

Tuition reimbursement for continued education

Competitive paid-time-off (PTO) accrual

Job summary

GFT is seeking a Client Service Leader in Texas to drive business development with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). This hybrid role involves collaborating with senior leaders and mentoring staff while overseeing client relationships and project deliveries.

The ideal candidate will have at least 15 years of relevant experience, a Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, and strong relationships with TxDOT. Compensation ranges from $225,000 to $275,000, with a comprehensive benefits package.

Qualifications

• 15+ years of progressive experience as a business development leader or related TxDOT experience.
• Registered as a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in Texas.
• Strong track record of winning and executing large complex transportation projects.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a primary contact for TxDOT, coordinating activities across districts.
• Lead multidisciplinary client service teams.
• Develop strategies to achieve business development and client relationship objectives.

Skills

Business development

Leadership

Communication skills

Client relationship management

Negotiation skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or related field

Job description

What You Will Do

GFT is seeking a TXDOT Client Service Leader to join our Transportation Group in Texas. This role follows a hybrid work model, requiring regular attendance at any of our Texas offices. Working on the transportation team offers the opportunity to engage in transformative projects that enhance transportation infrastructure and improve community connectivity. Whether working on highways, bridges, or traffic engineering, our team excels in resilient, sustainable design and construction, delivering innovative solutions that address the complexities of modern multmodal roadway systems and ensure safe, efficient, and reliable travel for all.

What You’ll Be Challenged To Do

GFT is seeking a dynamic and experienced Client Service Leader (CSL) to drive business development and growth for the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). The CSL consistently builds trust, delivers value at every interaction with our clients, and fully leverages relationships to benefit both the clients and the firm. Working with members of our team, your focus is to ensure GFT is the clients’ firm-of-choice. The CSL will be a growth‑minded leader who can collaborate with senior leaders in Transportation and other divisions, and mentor staff to drive strategic planning, business development, opportunity identification, proposal creation, interview presentation, project delivery, and relationship building.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a primary point of contact for TxDOT, coordinating activities seamlessly across districts and service lines.
• Track and maintain TxDOT opportunity pipeline, IDIQ utilization, and firm precertification.
• Lead multidisciplinary client service teams of project managers, technical leaders, and delivery stakeholders.
• Meet regularly with TxDOT staff at multiple levels to gather feedback on GFT performance, resolve issues, and identify opportunities.
• Build and sustain “zippered” relationships with TxDOT leadership, technical staff, and delivery teams statewide.
• Develop strategies and tactical action plans to achieve business development and client relationship objectives; identify trends and opportunities for business and resource growth.
• Identify, evaluate, and prioritize pursuits early, shaping capture plans well ahead of procurement cycles.
• Initiate and review proposals and sales activities; lead or support interviews and presentations.
• Develop and maintain relationships with potential teaming partners.
• Attend strategically significant conferences; maintain visibility through active participation in professional, civic, and business organizations across Texas.
• Maintain a strong understanding of TxDOT goals, contract requirements, performance metrics, and delivery expectations across programs.
• Partner with project and operations leaders to ensure delivery excellence, risk management, and strong financial performance.
• Provide timely, clear communication across Area, Regional, and Business Group leadership, and key delivery teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or related field.
• Minimum of 15 years’ progressive experience as a business development leader or related TxDOT experience.
• Experience leading a team.
• Registered as a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in Texas.
• Strong background in heavy civil infrastructure engineering and business development with a verifiable track record of winning and executing large complex transportation projects.
• Strong existing relationships with TxDOT.
• Growth‑focused with the ability to attract and develop talent to expand market share and meet the growing needs of our clients.
• Self‑starter with the ability to address multiple priorities and consistently meet deadlines.
• Leadership position with TxDOT or as a client of TxDOT.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to challenge, confront, and lead through influence.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.

Benefits

• Hybrid (in‑person and remote) work environment.
• Comprehensive benefits package including wellness programs, parental leave, and pet insurance, in addition to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance.
• Tax‑deferred 401(k) savings plan.
• Competitive paid‑time‑off (PTO) accrual.
• Tuition reimbursement for continued education.
• Commitment to professional development, access to internal and external training programs, and support of active participation in professional organizations.
• Incentive compensation for eligible positions.

Company Overview

At GFT, a privately held AEC firm, we innovate where transportation, water, power, and buildings converge. We call this the Infrastructure of Life. We measure our success by the strength of our relationships – that’s why we’re the employer of choice for 5,000+ of the industry’s brightest engineers, planners, architects, inspectors, designers, and more. Our clients choose us for our expertise and prefer us for our nimble approach, creativity, and personal touch. Backed by over a century’s experience, together we’re building a lasting legacy for future generations: stronger communities, a healthier planet, and better lives.

GFT: Ingenuity That Shapes Lives is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veterans’ status or other characteristics protected by law.

Location: Texas

Core Business Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Employment Status: Full-Time

Compensation: $225,000 - $275,000

GFT does require the successful completion of a criminal background check for all advertised positions.