Rail & Transit Services Lead

Michael Baker International • Chicago, IL

11h • $120,097 - $237,170 • Hybrid

About The Position

Michael Baker is seeking a talented Rail & Transit Services Lead in our Chicago Office with a specialization in rail bridge design, track engineering design, and/or construction management, to help make a difference in our Rail and Transit Practice. We are investing in the growth of our Rail and Transit services and are looking for a special individual that wants to help us grow and spearhead our efforts with proven relationships and experience delivering projects for clients such as Metra, Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), and/or Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District (NICTD). This role offers significant opportunity to guide Michael Baker’s Rail and Transit growth in Chicagoland, serve as Project Manager on exciting work, and lead/grow a team of people. This position is a hybrid role with 2 days per week required in our Chicago Office. Responsibilities include:

Requirements

• Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering required; Master’s in Structural Engineering preferred
• Experience with Metra and/or Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) required
• 10+ years in bridge design/rehabilitation/construction; track design engineering; or construction management required — rail/transit specialization preferred
• Familiarity with AREMA and agency-specific standards
• Proficient in rail structure design, specs review, and construction phase services
• Skilled in managing multiple concurrent projects and deadlines
• Strong client management and relationship-building skills

Nice To Haves

• Experience with Class I and/or other railroads a plus, such as: AMTRAK Belt Railway (BRC) BNSF Canadian National (CN) CPKC CSX Indiana Harbor Belt (IHB) Norfolk Southern (NS) Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District (NICTD) Union Pacific (UP)

Responsibilities

• Lead the business development, proposal, relationship building, and project management activities associated with Chicagoland rail clients while engaging Michael Baker’s rail, track, and bridge experts.
• Leading project planning, staffing, budgeting, and execution across single- and multi-discipline teams.
• Managing schedules, resources, and deliverables to ensure timely, on-budget performance.
• Coordinating with internal departments, clients, and government agencies.
• Reviewing technical designs and ensuring compliance with client standards.
• Preparing reports, cost analyses, and project documentation.
• Driving client engagement and leveraging project success for future opportunities.
• Supporting safety initiatives and maintaining required certifications.
• Mentoring staff in rail bridge and retaining wall design.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level