Rail & Transit Services Lead
About The Position
RAIL & TRANSIT PRACTICE Whether moving people or freight, future rail and transit solutions will be determined by energy prices, a shift toward urban living and growing environmental concerns. Michael Baker helps freight, authority and state Department of Transportation clients meet these modern challenges by providing services that address key industry issues such as state of good repair, capacity, safety, community livability, asset management and maintenance, planning and development for new projects, and the promotion of environmental stewardship and sustainability. We provide value by first understanding our clients’ needs, then working with them as a partner to identify innovative and cost-effective solutions that optimize their opportunities for success. DESCRIPTION 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.
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.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Number of Employees
5,001-10,000 employees
