Pavement​/Bridge​/Materials Engineer; PE

Our client is an established infrastructure consulting firm with over 25 years of presence in the United States. They specialize in pavement and bridge asset management, working closely with municipalities, state DOTs, and government agencies to maintain critical infrastructure. This role offers the opportunity to work with cutting-edge inspection technologies and contribute to vital infrastructure management systems that keep communities safe and connected.

This position supports succession planning as their current leadership prepares for retirement, offering significant growth potential for the right candidate.

Pavement Engineering Focus:

• Plan, execute, and analyze pavement condition surveys using Laser Crack Measurement Systems (LCMS)
• Conduct structural pavement testing using Falling Weight Deflectometer (FWD) and Heavy Weight Deflectometer (HWD)
• Perform back calculation analysis to evaluate pavement layer moduli and structural capacity
• Develop, implement, and manage pavement asset management systems
• Create deterioration models and recommend rehabilitation strategies
• Collaborate with municipalities and DOT agencies on pavement management programs

Bridge Engineering Alternative:

• Lead and perform bridge and underpass inspections, including condition assessments and structural evaluations
• Utilize Bridge Management Systems (BMS) for planning, prioritizing, and reporting on inspection and maintenance activities
• Conduct field investigations and structural health monitoring
• Prepare detailed technical inspection reports and compliance documentation
• Coordinate with contractors and government agencies to ensure regulatory compliance

General Responsibilities:

• Prepare technical reports, proposals, and client deliverables
• Provide technical leadership and supervise field teams
• Ensure quality assurance in data collection and reporting
• Client meetings, proposal development, and project management
• Supervise and mentor junior engineering staff
• Some travel required for site inspections (particularly for bridge work)

• Professional Engineer (PE) license (Illinois preferred, but other state licenses acceptable with ability to obtain Illinois license)
• Minimum 10 years of relevant experience in pavement engineering, bridge engineering, or materials engineering
• Experience with DOT/municipal projects and infrastructure asset management
• Proficiency in pavement survey methods, structural analysis, or bridge inspection techniques
• Strong technical report writing and communication skills
• U.S. citizenship or permanent residency required (no visa sponsorship available)
• Willingness to work onsite in Champaign, Illinois (licensed software and confidential data requirements)
• Availability for periodic travel for field inspections and client meetings

• Master's degree or PhD in Pavement Engineering, Structural Engineering, or Materials Engineering
• Experience with both pavement and bridge engineering (candidates with dual expertise may be considered for director-level roles)
• Familiarity with LCMS, FWD, HWD, and other advanced inspection equipment
• Experience with asset management software and pavement management systems
• Background working with state DOTs and municipal agencies
• Strong leadership and project management experience
• Professional demeanor with strong ethical standards

Compensation:

• Base salary: $120,000 - $140,000 annually
• Exceptional candidates with dual pavement/bridge expertise and 15+ years experience may qualify for senior roles with compensation up to $350,000

Benefits:

• Comprehensive healthcare coverage
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Paid time off and leave benefits
• Professional development opportunities
• Relocation assistance available for qualified candidates within the U.S.

Work Environment:

• Onsite position in Champaign, Illinois (required due to licensed software and data security requirements)
• Potential for flexible arrangements after establishing trust and comfort level
• Opportunity for international travel and collaboration (optional)
• Stable, family-owned business with strong values and long-term employee relationships

Equal Employment Opportunity and Non-Discrimination Policy

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are Equal Opportunity Employers. For all positions, whether with Keller Executive Search or our clients, qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, skin color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other legally protected status.

Commitment to Diversity: Keller Executive Search and its clients are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment where all individuals are valued and respected.

Reasonable Accommodations: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities and pregnant individuals. We engage in an interactive…