Transportation Business Operations Manager

HDR•Irvine, CA

About The Position

At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and novel ideas to work every day. As we foster a culture of inclusion throughout our company and within our communities, we constantly ask ourselves: What is our impact on the world? Watch Our Story:' https://www.hdrinc.com/our-story' Each and every role throughout our organization makes a difference in our ability to change the world for the better. Read further to learn how you could help make great things possible not only in your community, but around the world. We believe transportation is more than movement, it’s the foundation of connected, thriving communities. As part of HDR’s Transportation Business Group, you’ll help shape the systems that move people and goods safely, efficiently, and sustainably. From designing resilient highways and iconic bridges to advancing transit, passenger and freight rail, aviation, federal transportation ports and marine infrastructure, your work will directly support economic vitality, public safety, sustainable and resilient communities and quality of life. We bring together planners, engineers, architects, construction management staff, environmental, strategic communications, economists, management consultants and specialists across disciplines to solve complex mobility challenges with innovation, technical excellence, and a deep understanding of community needs. Whether you're modernizing aging infrastructure or pioneering next-generation transportation solutions, your contributions will help define the future of mobility. This isn’t just a job, it’s a chance to lead progress, drive meaningful impact, and leave a legacy of smarter, more connected transportation networks. We are all employee-owners at HDR, which is the foundation of our collaborative culture that connects employees around the world.

Requirements

A minimum of 10 years' experience in Architecture/ Engineering, Design-Build, P3, project management, construction, project controls and/or staff leadership or equivalent
A bachelor's degree in engineering, architecture, business, law or equivalent
Working knowledge of Architecture/ Engineering/ Construction industry contracting practices in the country(ies) the Senior Commercial Manager works in, applicable government and commercial regulations and practices, policies, procedures and work practices
Working knowledge of project controls, project management, and project estimating software tools such as: Primavera 6 (P6), e-Builder, Quick Base or Primavera Unifier
Experience in development of fee estimates, drafting contracts, administration and negotiation of change orders, effective correspondence, planning and scheduling
Experience in claims which may include claims defense, claim production, claim negotiation/resolution, and claim prevention
Ability to work well in a high performing team structure in a fast-paced environment
Experience and/or working knowledge of negotiation of contracts for architecture/engineering projects
A positive professional reputation as one who can deliver quality, cost effective projects
Self-starter; good communication and people skills
Must be committed to quality and improvement and promoting HDR's values.
Ability to teach, lead, and mentor others

Nice To Haves

Strong analytical skillset (proficient in analyzing contract, fee and scope proposals). Understanding budgets and financials
Advanced proficiency in relevant business intelligence and financial systems.
Experience managing cross-functional teams and mentoring staff.
Familiarity with contract administration and proposal review processes.
Good communication skills with PMs and MOA
Be a resource for the 375-400 staff members in SoCal Transportation
Proficient in contract, fee and scope analysis including HDR accounting/reporting processes
Ability to multi-task
Ability to think outside the box anticipating continued growth of the transportation business group (currently 375 employees)

Responsibilities

Financial & Budget Management: Develop, manage, and monitor the Transportation budget in collaboration with the Business Group Manager.
Conduct project profitability reviews, revenue analysis, Rolling 12 forecasts, and annual financial planning to support business decisions.
Assist with fee proposal preparation, review, and financial oversight for contracts and projects.
Operations Leadership & Resource Management: Lead the Transportation operations and administrative team, ensuring efficient workflow and adherence to company policies.
Manage resource allocation and staffing to meet Transportation business needs, aligning team capacity with project requirements and business priorities.
Oversee PA/PC staff, including career development, training programs, work planning, and performance management.
Support recruitment, HR matters, staff planning, and facilities needs for new hires and promotions.
Compliance & Contract Oversight: Lead compliance with company policies, including Quality Program, Contracts, Risk Management, and Labor Compliance.
Review cost proposals for accuracy and evaluate scopes for compliance with RFP requirements.
Analyze contract risk factors, review MOA attachments for completeness, and prepare/send MOA communications to reviewers and approvers.
Oversee the Transportation Contract Manager and coordinate with legal and insurance teams to ensure proper contract execution and risk mitigation.
Strategic Support to Leadership: Partner with the Business Group Manager to support operations, reporting, compliance, and strategic decision-making.
Support APMs with compensation reviews, spot bonuses, salary adjustments, and staff planning.
Performance Monitoring & Reporting: Track project performance, financial metrics, and key operational indicators.
Prepare utilization, marketing, monthly operations, and regional reports to inform leadership decisions.
Attend project reviews to monitor risks and financial performance, recommending improvements as needed.
Training & Development: Coordinate and monitor PM training programs (EBS, Pronto, BI tools).
Develop career growth and training initiatives for staff to ensure long-term team capability and engagement.