Senior Civil Design Engineer​/Group Leader, Transit and Rail - Dallas, TX

Senior Civil Design Engineer / Group Leader, Transit and Rail - Dallas, TX

Senior Civil Design Engineer / Group Leader

At David Evans and Associates, Inc., our Transportation team blends innovation, sustainability, and a commitment to our communities to navigate modern transportation challenges. We deliver unique solutions through cutting-edge engineering practices, creating an exceptional client experience. DEA addresses modern transportation demands with focused expertise and a diverse set of services tailored to meet our clients’ evolving needs. Whether enhancing existing transportation networks or pioneering new mobility solutions, DEA’s knowledge helps shape a future where safe, efficient, convenient, and accessible mobility leads the way for sustainable growth and improved quality of life in our communities.

Transit and Rail Practice is seeking a Senior Civil Design Engineer / Group Leader
. This leadership role is ideal for a seasoned professional who thrives at the intersection of design excellence, team development, and client partnership. You ll have the opportunity to shape impactful rail infrastructure while guiding a high-performing team from conceptual design through to construction support.

• Technical Leadership:
  Serve as the lead civil designer on multidiscipline rail projects involving grading, utilities, drainage, erosion control, site development, access roads, and track geometry. Oversee design production from feasibility through final design and construction, ensuring technical excellence and compliance with Class I railroad standards, local codes, and client specifications.
• Project Delivery & Construction Documentation:
  Lead preparation and review of detailed construction plans, technical specifications, cost estimates, and reports. Utilize Bentley Open Rail Designer, Micro Station, AutoCAD, and Civil 3D to develop accurate, high-quality deliverables.
• Quality & Oversight:
  Conduct and manage technical reviews of plans, estimates, and calculations to uphold DEA’s QA/QC procedures. Provide construction-phase support including submittal reviews, RFIs, and field observations to preserve design integrity.
• Leadership & Mentoring:
  Manage, mentor, and inspire a growing team of engineers and designers, supporting technical development and career growth. Plan and allocate resources effectively, ensuring the right expertise is applied to each project.
• Client & Business Development:
  Serve as a technical leader and trusted advisor to key clients such as BNSF, UPRR, CPKC, and industry rail partners. Support strategic pursuits, proposals, and relationship-building efforts with new and existing clients. Collaborate with DEA leadership to grow the Freight Rail team and expand our service offerings.
• Collaboration & Field Engagement:
  Coordinate with structural, geotechnical, surveying, environmental, and architectural disciplines. Lead project meetings, site visits, and inspections to align field activities with design intent and stakeholder goals.

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or related field.
• Licensed Professional Engineer (PE).
• 10+ years of experience in civil engineering with a strong focus on freight rail and land development.
• Demonstrated success delivering projects for Class I railroads or industrial clients.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, organizational skills, and attention to detail.
• Willingness and ability to travel periodically for site visits, client engagement, and business development.

• Proficiency in Bentley Open Rail, Micro Station, AutoCAD, and/or Civil 3D.
• Familiarity with Class I railroad standards (BNSF, UPRR, NS, CPKC).
• Proven success in client management, winning work, and leading multidisciplinary teams.
• Experience mentoring junior staff and building high-functioning design teams.
• Preference given to candidates based in or near Texas or strategic client regions.

We foster an environment where talented professionals have the freedom and support to do their most meaningful work. Our values and company culture form the foundation of our success, creating a…