Senior Transportation Engineer

Valdes Architecture & Engineering is seeking a Senior Transportation Engineer to play a pivotal role in the growth and expansion of our Transportation practice. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced transportation professional to lead the planning, design, and delivery of high-profile highway and roadway projects throughout Illinois while helping shape our strategic expansion into additional Midwest markets.

As a key member of our team, you will lead a variety of IDOT, county, and municipal transportation projects, applying your expertise in roadway geometrics, drainage, traffic engineering, and maintenance of traffic (MOT) while working alongside a collaborative group of civil, structural, survey, environmental, and construction professionals. Beyond project delivery, you'll have the opportunity to influence the future direction of our transportation services by helping expand our IDOT and INDOT capabilities, strengthen client relationships, and support regional market growth initiatives.

This role offers much more than project execution—it provides a genuine opportunity to become a leader within a growing organization. The successful candidate will have a clear path toward Manager/Director-level leadership, with the ability to mentor engineers, contribute to business development efforts, guide transportation strategy, and help build a thriving transportation practice. If you're looking for an opportunity where your technical expertise, leadership abilities, and entrepreneurial mindset can make a lasting impact, Valdes offers the platform and support to help you achieve that vision.

Candidates must possess an Illinois PE license or ability to obtain in the next year.

Responsibilities

Lead the planning, design, and delivery of IDOT and local agency roadway projects, including horizontal/vertical alignments, cross sections, geometrics, drainage, pavement design, and traffic signal modernizationPrepare and review Phase I and II engineering deliverables, including design reports, plan sets, cost estimates, and specifications in compliance with IDOT, FHWA, AASHTO, and MUTCD standardsDevelop traffic control and staging plans, MOT, and complete streets elements, incorporating ADA and context-sensitive designCoordinate with internal teams (survey, structures, construction, MEP, GIS) and external subconsultants to deliver fully integrated solutionsMentor junior engineers and participate in internal QA/QC and project reviewsAssist in developing and submitting documentation to expand IDOT and INDOT prequalifications, including resumes, project data, and technical narrativesServe as a client-facing representative, attending meetings and maintaining strong communication with IDOT, Tollway, and municipal stakeholdersUse software tools including Civil 3D, OpenRoads Designer, Geopak, AutoTURN, HCS/Synchro, and support integration of emerging technologies (e.g., drone surveys, GIS)Support strategic business development efforts and assist in teaming, pursuit decisions, and proposal developmentParticipate in professional organizations (ASCE, ITE, ACEC, etc.) and represent Valdes at industry events and conferences

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or related fieldLicensed PE in Illinois/Indiana preferred, or willingness to obtain within 12 months5+ years of progressive experience in highway and roadway planning and designDeep knowledge of IDOT and FHWA standards and processesProficiency with relevant design software (Civil 3D, OpenRoads, etc.)Ability to manage multiple projects and collaborate across departments. Experience with INDOT, Tollway, or municipal DOT projectsFamiliarity with IDOT BDE, BLRS, and Phase I/II documentation requirementsExperience in traffic studies, permitting, or environmental documentationInvolvement in professional associations and industry networkingMust possess exceptional interpersonal and organizational skillsMust be able to work in the US without sponsorship now or in the future

$100,000 - $175,000 a year

Salaries for all positions are based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, total years of experience in the industry, education, skills, and qualifications. Compensation may vary depending on the candidate's individual background and expertise. Salaries are subject to fluctuation outside of the given range. The indicated range is not a commitment and meant as a guideline. All compensation, exempt or non-exempt status, and benefits will be discussed during the interview process.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.