Rail and Transit Practice
Whether moving people or freight, the future of rail and transit infrastructure is shaped by energy costs, urban growth, and environmental priorities. Michael Baker International supports freight railroads, transit authorities, and state departments of transportation (DOTs) through services focused on state of good repair, capacity expansion, safety, asset management, and sustainable rail infrastructure. We partner closely with our clients to deliver innovative, practical, and cost‑effective solutions that advance large‑scale transportation programs and improve mobility and reliability across the rail network.
What We're Looking For: We are seeking a railway‑focused construction leader who is passionate about delivering high‑quality construction services, mentoring teams, partnering with clients, and contributing to business strategy, growth, and work‑winning efforts to support our Rail and Transit Practice as part of the Transforming Rail in Virginia (TRV) initiative. In this role, you will help deliver significant rail enhancement projects for CSX Transportation, in partnership with the Commonwealth of Virginia, under a highly visible public‑private partnership program. This opportunity is based in Alexandria, Virginia, with on‑site program leadership and collaboration across regional and national technical teams. In addition, you will lead a group of construction managers, resident engineers, and inspectors by providing construction oversight and technical leadership for freight and passenger rail projects along the Richmond‑to‑Washington, DC corridor.
What You'll Do:
As a Construction Manager on our team, you will lead the planning, coordination, and execution of rail, civil, and bridge construction projects, including but not limited to:
- Supporting the TRV Program Manager and/or Deputy Program Managers in delivering program objectives
- Maintaining overall responsibility for project quality, cost, schedule, and safety performance
- Developing, maintaining, and implementing Project Management Plans, including Health & Safety Plans and Quality Management Plans
- Conducting safety meetings and training programs to ensure compliance with railroad and project safety requirements
- Coordinating quality management audits and sustaining continuous improvement across construction processes
- Providing inspection, field engineering, and technical advisory support for civil, track, and bridge construction activities, as needed
- Reviewing project proposals, scopes of work, schedules, and funding constraints; supporting contract negotiations when required
- Establishing work plans for large, complex rail projects, including staffing strategies and subcontractor engagement
- Coordinating project activities with government agencies, regulatory bodies, and third‑party stakeholders
- Directing and coordinating project personnel to ensure work progresses on schedule and within budget
- Reviewing status reports, adjusting schedules, and modifying plans as necessary to address risks or changing conditions
- Preparing project reports for management and client leadership
- Providing technical guidance, resolving project issues, and mentoring junior staff
- Generating and approving purchase orders, invoices, credits, and reviewing timesheets
- Participating in job site meetings, CM/design coordination meetings, and technical reviews; coordinating design reviews related to RFIs and construction issues
- Overseeing coordination of staging, shutdowns, and start‑up operations to maintain uninterrupted rail, yard, or facility operations
- Assisting with staff hiring and resource planning to meet project and program needs
Client Management & Business Development:
- Developing and maintaining strong client relationships to ensure satisfaction and long‑term partnership
- Interfacing with key stakeholders and supporting community and public outreach efforts, as needed
- Gathering and sharing intelligence related to upcoming pursuits and program opportunities
- Participating in business development activities, including client meetings, marketing efforts, and proposal development
Occasional to moderate local and regional travel is required in this role
What You Need to Succeed:
- Required Qualifications:
- A Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field
- A minimum of 10 years construction oversight experience, along with demonstrated expertise in:
- Safety management
- Scheduling (CPM, Primavera, MS Project)
- Staffing and resource planning
- Estimating, risk management, quality management, and document controls
- Relevant past experience working in active rail facilities
- Proven leadership and communication skills, with the ability to manage diverse field teams and interface effectively with clients, contractors, railroads, and public agencies
- Demonstrated record of delivering high‑quality rail projects safely, on time, and within budget
- Commitment to client satisfaction, business growth, staff development, and operational excellence
- Experience coordinating with government agencies and regulatory authorities
- Preferred Qualifications:
- Professional Engineer (PE) and/or Certified Construction Manager (CCM) credentials
- Track safety certification
- Direct rail industry experience (freight and/or passenger rail)
- Familiarity with Virginia and Washington, DC area rail projects
Compensation:
The approximate compensation range for this position is $121,803 - $180,000 per year. This compensation range is a good faith estimate for the position at the time of posting. Actual compensation is dependent upon factors such as education, qualifications, experience, skillset, and physical work location.
Why Choose Us: - 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
