Department Lead, Highway/Municipal Transportation
About The Position
Consistently ranked by Engineering News-Record as a Top 20 transportation firm, Michael Baker International offers clients an integrated team of professionals versed in all aspects of transportation planning, design, permitting, and construction management and inspection. Michael Baker International is actively seeking a visionary and business development-focused Department Lead to lead our Transportation Practice in Santa Ana, California. As a Top 20 nationally ranked transportation firm, we’re shaping the future of infrastructure across the state — from major highway corridors to local streetscapes that connect communities. This is more than a management role — it’s a chance to drive innovation, build a high-performing team, and lead transformative projects for both Caltrans and municipal/active transportation agencies throughout Southern California.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering
- CA PE (Civil) license required.
- 15+ years of transportation/public works experience.
- Strong leadership, mentoring, and project management skills.
- Excellent communication and proposal writing abilities.
- Passion for innovation and growing a high-performing team.
Nice To Haves
- Experience with Caltrans standards and design-build projects is a plus.
Responsibilities
- Lead a team of engineers and designers on state highway and municipal transportation projects.
- Manage project delivery schedules, budgets, and ensure the highest quality standards.
- Build and maintain strong client relationships with Caltrans, local cities, counties, and regional transportation agencies.
- Drive strategic growth through business development, including client pre-positioning, proposal leadership, and interview preparation.
- Represent Michael Baker at professional organizations and industry events to elevate our regional presence.
- Guide the application of Michael Baker’s services to best serve client needs and support long-term practice growth.
- Collaborate with national, regional, and office leadership to ensure successful contracting and project execution.
Benefits
- Medical, dental, vision insurance
- 401k Retirement Plan
- Health Savings Account (HSA)
- Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
- Life, AD&D, short-term, and long-term disability
- Professional and personal development
- Generous paid time off
- Commuter and wellness benefits
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Manager
Number of Employees
501-1,000 employees
