Senior Project Manager Engineer; Freight Rail

Overview

At HDR, we specialize in engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services. While we are most well‑known for adding beauty and structure to communities through high‑performance buildings and smart infrastructure, we provide much more than that. We create an unshakable foundation for progress because our multidisciplinary teams also include scientists, economists, builders, analysts, and artists. That is why we believe diversity is our greatest strength.

HDR is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and an affirmative action employer.

We believe transportation is more than movement; it is the foundation of connected, thriving communities. As part of HDR's Transportation Business Group, you will 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, sustainability and quality of life.

We bring together planners, engineers, architects, construction managers, environmental experts, strategic communicators, 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 are 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.

HDR is seeking a highly motivated Senior Project Manager to support HDR’s Freight Rail Market Sector. This position will provide project management and technical services to freight rail and public agency clients in a thriving region. Please note that this role requires strong management skills and the ability to work with various facets of freight rail and public agency staff and capital projects.

The ideal candidate will have broad experience working with freight railroads and public agencies, preferably in California and the Western US. The successful candidate must demonstrate knowledge of applicable federal, state and local standards and requirements associated with railway projects, design, operations and maintenance, and an understanding of project delivery processes for various phases of project development such as planning, conceptual design and feasibility, environmental documentation, preparation of plans, specifications and estimates (PS&E), and providing design support during construction (DSDC) and construction management (CM).

The ideal candidate will also act as a seller‑doer project manager that leads project pursuits and helps grow market share through cooperation with the Freight Rail Market Sector Leader and the business development and marketing team.

The position may require travel to participate in client projects, marketing pursuits and internal meetings and events. Occasional in‑office presence is also required for meetings and collaboration with other team members.

• Take responsibility for all aspects of client and design‑team management of Class I railroad, freight, short line, commuter and rail transit projects.
• Plan, direct, supervise and monitor all aspects of multidisciplinary projects with a high degree of technical complexity and involving a large project staff of professionals and technicians; manage the assembly of design, plans, specifications, construction estimate packages and other deliverables.
• Produce and coordinate several projects concurrently.
• Serve as Project Manager on small, medium and large transportation projects.
• Serve as a point of contact between the client and HDR and help to enhance client relationships and be involved in contractual, design and production meetings.
• Participate in proposal development and other marketing activities as a seller‑doer pursuit champion or support role, as appropriate.
• Implement QA/QC procedures and perform detailed…