Resident Engineer - Rail & Transit

Michael Baker International•Chicago, IL

1d•$136,000 - $187,000•Onsite

About The Position

Michael Baker International’s Construction Services staff supports clients by acting as their trusted on-site agent through all phases of construction, from pre-design to close-out, by providing qualified construction managers, inspectors, constructability reviewers, schedulers, estimators and safety experts. As new technologies evolve throughout the construction industry, innovative ideas are required to maintain and deliver successful construction projects. DESCRIPTION Michael Baker is seeking an experienced Resident Engineer with a strong background in rail infrastructure, specifically with Metra and Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) projects. The ideal candidate will serve as the on-site engineering representative for major rail construction, rehabilitation, and infrastructure improvement initiatives. This role requires deep familiarity with commuter rail and transit operational environments, construction management expertise, and the ability to coordinate effectively with contractors, stakeholders, and agency personnel.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or related field.
5+ years of experience in rail/transit construction, with direct experience on METRA and/or CTA projects.
Strong understanding of rail infrastructure, including track, structures, stations, power systems, and signaling (as applicable).
Previous experience working in an active rail environment with stringent operating and safety protocols.

Nice To Haves

Professional Engineer (P.E.) license, preferred.

Responsibilities

Serve as the on-site authority overseeing construction activities for METRA and/or CTA rail projects.
Monitor contractor performance to ensure compliance with contract documents, project schedules, safety standards, and quality expectations.
Conduct daily field inspections and maintain detailed documentation of work progress, testing, and field conditions.
Identify, track, and help resolve field issues, changes, and conflicts as they arise.
Review engineering plans, shop drawings, RFIs, submittals, change orders, and technical specifications.
Ensure construction execution adheres to METRA and CTA engineering standards, design criteria, and operating requirements.
Coordinate with design teams and project engineers to clarify plans and resolve technical discrepancies.
Serve as the primary on-site liaison between the agency (METRA/CTA), contractors, local jurisdictions, utilities, and third-party stakeholders.
Participate in progress meetings, safety briefings, and coordination sessions.
Communicate project status, risks, and resolutions to agency representatives and project leadership.
Maintain daily reports, logs, photos, and field records in accordance with agency standards.
Assist with cost tracking, schedule updates, change management documentation, and project reporting.
Prepare written reports summarizing field observations, issues, and recommendations.