Lead Transportation Engineering Manager

🏗️ Transportation Engineering Manager | Springfield, IL | $135,000 to $167,000 plus BonusPosted by Elite Recruitment LLC | Confidential ClientAbout the OpportunityElite Recruitment LLC has been engaged by a premier, award winning civil engineering firm to identify an exceptional Transportation Engineering Manager for their Springfield, IL office.Our client is a 100% employee owned consulting engineering firm with multiple offices across Illinois, recognized as the #1 AEC Employer of Choice in 2025 and one of the 2024 Best Places to Work in Illinois. This is a firm where leaders are trusted, empowered, and rewarded with a genuine stake in the company's success.This is not just a job. This is a seat at the table with equity, impact, and a clear path to principal level leadership.💼 The RoleThis is a high impact, office leading position responsible for the strategic direction, client engagement, P&L ownership, and full project delivery of the Springfield transportation practice. You will oversee a talented team of engineers and administrative staff while driving business development with key agency clients including IDOT District 6, the Central Bureau, counties, and municipalities throughout Central Illinois.The ideal candidate is both a big picture strategist and a hands on leader. Someone who can develop client relationships, mentor the next generation of engineers, and deliver complex transportation projects at the highest level.📋 What You Will Be DoingStrategic and Financial LeadershipDevelop and execute a comprehensive strategic plan for the Springfield transportation group. Assume full P&L responsibility including revenue forecasting, budget management, and financial performance. Direct long term resource planning and staffing to optimize project outcomes. Oversee fiscal management including budgets, resource allocation, and client invoicing.Business Development and Client RelationsServe as Principal in Charge and primary client service manager for key Central Illinois accounts. Cultivate deep relationships with IDOT Bureau Chiefs, District Engineers, County Engineers, and Municipal officials. Lead the full proposal lifecycle including Go/No Go decisions, technical strategy, and interview preparation. Represent the firm at leadership level in key industry organizations such as ACEC IL and ISPE. Proactively pursue new project opportunities with IDOT Central Office and regional municipalities.Project and Operational ManagementProvide technical oversight for transportation projects covering Phase I and Phase II including scope, schedule, budget, and IDOT/Federal compliance. Establish and enforce rigorous QA/QC procedures and engineering standards. Serve as the escalation point for complex technical challenges and contractual matters. Handle all facets of contract administration including scoping, negotiation, change orders, and closeout.Team Leadership and DevelopmentLead, manage, and mentor a team of engineers and administrative staff. Oversee recruitment and onboarding of new talent to grow the Springfield team. Conduct performance reviews and set professional development goals for existing staff. Champion mentorship and knowledge sharing around IDOT policies and engineering best practices.✅ What You Will NeedBachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering from an ABET accredited university. Active PE License in the State of Illinois is required. A minimum of 12 to 15 years of progressive transportation and civil engineering experience. At least 5 years in a leadership role managing projects, teams, and financials. Deep familiarity with IDOT Phase I and Phase II procedures and the BDE Manual. Proven track record managing departmental P&L and driving sustainable revenue growth. Strong financial literacy including utilization rates, multipliers, and budget oversight. Proficiency with MicroStation, OpenRoads Designer, and Deltek Vision/Vantagepoint. Understanding of state and federal funding sources including MFT, ITEP, and Rebuild Illinois. Exceptional written and verbal communication skills. Valid driver's license with a clean driving record.💰 Compensation and BenefitsSalary: $135,000 to $167,000 depending on experienceAnnual Performance Based BonusYearly Cost of Living and Merit IncreasesHealth Insurance with PPO and HSA optionsEmployer HSA Contribution up to $2,500Vision and Dental Insurance401(k) Profit Sharing Plan with 6% Dollar for Dollar Match and Immediate Vesting$2,000 Lifestyle Spending AccountStudent Loan Paydown ProgramShort Term and Long Term Disability InsuranceLife InsurancePaid Holidays and Generous PTOFlexible Hours and Hybrid Work OptionsContinuing Education SupportProfessional License and Society Membership ReimbursementEmployee Assistance Program🏆 Why This Firm#1 AEC Employer of Choice 2025 by PSMJ Resources2024 Best Places to Work by the Illinois Society of Professional Engineers2024 Premier Award for Client Satisfaction by PSMJ Resources100% Employee Owned meaning you have a real stake in the firm's future60 years of excellence, stability, and continued growthLarge enough to take on complex, high impact projects and small enough for every leader to feel seen, supported, and valued🔒 Confidentiality GuaranteedThis is a confidential search. The client's name will only be disclosed to qualified candidates who express serious interest. Your inquiry stays between us until the right offer is on the table.📩 How to ApplyIf you are a licensed PE in Illinois with 12 or more years of transportation engineering experience and strong IDOT expertise, and you are ready for a leadership role with real equity and real impact, we would love to have a confidential conversation with you.DM me directly here on LinkedIn or send your resume to [your email address] with the subject line Transportation Engineering Manager Springfield.The right seat at the table does not stay empty for long. Let's talk. 🏗️