Resident Engineer

About Zephyr Rail is an engineering design and construction management firm based in Orange, CA, specializing in railroad design, construction management, and UAV solutions.

As a Resident Engineer, you will serve as the primary on‑site leader for Zephyr Rail, overseeing quality, safety, and compliance for complex rail and transportation projects. The role involves managing all phases of construction from constructability reviews to final project completion, coordinating inspection staff, liaising with contractors and stakeholders, and ensuring adherence to plans and specifications.

• Lead and oversee daily field activities to verify contractor work meets design intent, contract requirements, and quality standards.
• Direct and coordinate inspection staff to ensure proper coverage of construction disciplines.
• Track and document progress, quantities, and schedule compliance; verify accuracy of contractor pay applications.
• Negotiate settlements for changes and claims.
• Prepare contract change orders.
• Coordinate outside agency support for the contractor's schedule.
• Inspect contractor quality control efforts daily.
• Hold weekly coordination meetings with the contractor.
• Maintain project records, files, and "as-built" data.
• Issue daily and weekly reports for the resident engineer.
• Calculate and document field quantities for payment.
• Enforce the Contractor Safety Program.
• Review construction plans and provide feedback on design packages.
• Coordinate design, permits, and stakeholder agreements with third‑party and public‑agency representatives.
• Function as the owner's representative, as directed by the project manager or construction manager.

• Bachelor's degree in civil engineering, construction management, or equivalent experience.
• At least 10 years of experience in construction management on transit, rail, or transportation projects worth over $30 million.
• At least 5 years of supervisory experience managing major construction projects.
• California Professional Engineer (P.E.), preferred.
• Proficiency in Bluebeam, MS Project, and Procore (or equivalent project‑management software).
• Rail experience (track, systems, or facilities) strongly desired.
• Demonstrated ability to manage CMGC, Design‑Build, or Design‑Bid‑Build delivery methods.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and conflict‑resolution skills.
• Valid California driver's license and ability to travel between job sites.
• Authorized to work in the U.S.

Salary Range: $165,000 – $239,000 per year.

• Paid Medical, Dental, and Vision
• 401(k) Plan with company match
• Paid Time Off (PTO) and Paid Holidays
• Disability Insurance
• Educational Assistance and Licensure Support
• Performance‑based Bonuses and Service Awards
• Flexible/Hybrid Work Arrangements (role‑dependent)

At Zephyr Rail, we are an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering diversity and inclusion.