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Transit and Rail Technical Director

Company Description

Work with Us. Change the World.

At AECOM, we're delivering a better world. Whether improving your commute, keeping the lights on, providing access to clean water, or transforming skylines, our work helps people and communities thrive. We are the world's trusted infrastructure consulting firm, partnering with clients to solve the world’s most complex challenges and build legacies for future generations.

There has never been a better time to be at AECOM. With accelerating infrastructure investment worldwide, our services are in great demand. We invite you to bring your bold ideas and big dreams and become part of a global team of over 50,000 planners, designers, engineers, scientists, digital innovators, program and construction managers and other professionals delivering projects that create a positive and tangible impact around the world.

We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us.

Job Description

AECOM is seeking an experienced Transit and Rail Technical Director to join our Oakland Office.

JOB SUMMARY:

This role requires a highly qualified professional with a proven career in the transit and rail industry, specifically focusing on the design, delivery, and management of large-scale transportation infrastructure programs. This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to multi-billion-dollar capital infrastructure projects while leading major pursuits and overseeing their successful delivery. The position involves managing complex projects from conception through execution, ensuring they are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards, thus reinforcing AECOM’s reputation as a preferred transportation consultant.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Client Engagement and Stakeholder Management:
    • Engage proactively with clients, government officials, and stakeholders during pre-proposal and project phases to fully understand key project issues and objectives.
    • Lead client discussions to resolve critical project issues and ensure timely and effective decision-making.
    • Develop and foster long-term relationships with key client executives and technical staff.
  • Pursuit and Project Delivery Leadership:
    • Lead major pursuit efforts, including proposal preparation, interview participation, and forming strategic teaming partnerships that align with win themes.
    • Serve as the primary point of contact for the client and assume responsibility for project/program management of large, complex transportation projects.
    • Provide overall leadership in the design and construction phases, acting as the lead Design & Construction Manager for multi-billion-dollar projects.
  • Technical Oversight and Design Leadership:
    • Oversee all aspects of project design and ensure compliance with client engineering standards, codes, and regulations.
    • Offer technical mentorship and guidance to design teams, ensuring design excellence and innovation.
    • Ensure coordination with other functional groups and provide expert recommendations on complex issues, including cost estimation and construction support.
  • Contract and Risk Management:
    • Manage contractual responsibilities and mitigate project risks, serving as an agent for AECOM in client contract negotiations.
    • Ensure that project budgets, schedules, and technical requirements are met and documented clearly.
  • Strategic Collaboration and Policy Development:
    • Assist in the development, recommendation, and implementation of engineering policies and standards, particularly in infrastructure and system development.
    • Support marketing and business development efforts by identifying growth opportunities in the transit and rail sector and contributing to strategic planning.
  • Communication and Reporting:
    • Create and deliver comprehensive written reports, summaries, and presentations for internal and external audiences, including clients and stakeholders.
    • Provide regular updates on project progress and key deliverables.

    Qualifications

    MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

    • Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering or related field.
    • 12 years of relevant experience or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education, including 4 years of leadership.

    PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: 

    • Experience:
      • 25+ years of experience in engineering and project management, with a strong track record in leading multi-billion-dollar transit and rail projects.
      • Experience working as the project manager on major design and construction projects using delivery methods such as Design-Bid-Build, Design-Build, CM/GC, and Progressive Design-Build.
    • Licenses and Certifications:
      • Professional Engineer (PE) license in the State of California (or ability to obtain within 6 months of hire).
    • Skills and Competencies:
      • Proven ability to lead complex, large-scale infrastructure projects from concept to completion.
      • Strong client and stakeholder management skills, with experience engaging at senior levels.
      • Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and strategic thinking skills.
      • Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present technical information clearly to diverse audiences.
      • Ability to balance multiple responsibilities, maintain professionalism, and meet deadlines under pressure.
      • Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and other project management software.

    Additional Information

    • Travel may be required in this role.
    • Sponsorship is provided for this role.

    About AECOM

    AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan.

    AECOM is the world’s trusted infrastructure consulting firm, delivering professional services throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. On projects spanning transportation, buildings, water, new energy and the environment, our public- and private-sector clients trust us to solve their most complex challenges. Our teams are driven by a common purpose to deliver a better world through our unrivaled technical and digital expertise, a culture of equity, diversity and inclusion, and a commitment to environmental, social and governance priorities. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm and its Professional Services business had revenue of $14.4 billion in fiscal year 2023. See how we are delivering sustainable legacies for generations to come at aecom.com and @AECOM.

     

    Freedom to Grow in a World of Opportunity 

    You will have the flexibility you need to do your best work with hybrid work options. Whether you’re working from an AECOM office, remote location or at a client site, you will be working in a dynamic environment where your integrity, entrepreneurial spirit and pioneering mindset are championed.

    You will help us foster a safe and respectful workplace, where we invite everyone to bring their whole selves to work using their unique talents, backgrounds and expertise to create transformational outcomes for our clients.

    AECOM provides a wide array of compensation, benefits and well-being programs to meet the diverse needs of our employees and their families. We’re the world’s trusted global infrastructure firm, and we’re in this together – your growth and success are ours too.

    Join us, and you’ll get all the benefits of being a part of a global, publicly traded firm – access to industry-leading technology and thinking and transformational work with big impact and work flexibility. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in each person’s potential, and we’ll help you reach yours.

    All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

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    Average salary estimate

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    What You Should Know About Transit and Rail Technical Director, AECOM

    At AECOM, we're looking for an experienced Transit and Rail Technical Director in our vibrant Oakland office! This is not just another job; it’s a chance to shape the future of transportation infrastructure. If you have a proven track record in the transit and rail industry and a passion for leading large-scale programs, this could be the perfect fit for you! In this role, you'll be at the forefront of multi-billion-dollar capital projects, driving them from conception to delivery, all while ensuring they meet the highest standards of quality and timeliness. Your responsibilities will include engaging with clients and stakeholders, leading project pursuits, and managing complex designs and construction phases. At AECOM, we pride ourselves on our collaborative environment, where you’ll mentor talented teams and influence key decisions that will impact communities for generations. With our commitment to building a better world, your contributions will help improve commutes, enhance infrastructure, and ultimately change lives. So, if you’re ready to take the next big step in your career, bring your expertise and creativity to AECOM, and be part of a dynamic team dedicated to making a difference!

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Transit and Rail Technical Director Role at AECOM
    What are the responsibilities of the Transit and Rail Technical Director at AECOM?

    As the Transit and Rail Technical Director at AECOM, your key responsibilities involve managing large-scale transportation infrastructure programs, engaging with clients and stakeholders to understand project objectives, and leading major project deliveries. You'll oversee design compliance, manage budgets, and mitigate risks while fostering long-term client relationships. The position demands strong leadership and a proactive approach to problem-solving within the transit and rail sector.

    Join Rise to see the full answer
    What qualifications are needed for the Transit and Rail Technical Director at AECOM?

    To qualify for the Transit and Rail Technical Director position at AECOM, candidates should have a Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering or a related field, along with at least 12 years of relevant experience, including 4 years in a leadership role. It's preferred to have 25+ years of experience in engineering and project management, specifically in leading multi-billion-dollar projects, as well as a Professional Engineer (PE) license in California.

    Join Rise to see the full answer
    What skills are essential for the Transit and Rail Technical Director role at AECOM?

    Essential skills for the Transit and Rail Technical Director at AECOM include strong client and stakeholder management capabilities, excellent problem-solving and analytical skills, and the ability to manage complex projects from start to finish. Additionally, strong communication skills are vital to effectively convey technical information to various audiences and ensure successful project outcomes.

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    Does AECOM offer support for professional development for the Transit and Rail Technical Director?

    Yes! AECOM is committed to fostering the growth of its employees. As a Transit and Rail Technical Director, you will have access to various professional development opportunities, including mentorship programs, leadership training, and a culture that emphasizes lifelong learning and innovation within the transit and rail sector.

    Join Rise to see the full answer
    What is the work environment like for the Transit and Rail Technical Director at AECOM?

    At AECOM, the work environment for the Transit and Rail Technical Director is dynamic and collaborative. You will have the flexibility to work from an AECOM office, a remote location, or a client site, promoting a healthy work-life balance. The culture champions diversity, inclusion, and respect, enabling you to bring your unique talents to the team and contribute to meaningful projects.

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    Common Interview Questions for Transit and Rail Technical Director
    Can you describe a challenging project you've managed in the transit and rail sector?

    When answering this question, highlight your role, the challenges encountered, and how you addressed them. Discuss the strategies applied to engage stakeholders, manage risks, and ensure timely delivery, demonstrating your problem-solving and leadership capabilities.

    Join Rise to see the full answer
    How do you prioritize tasks and manage multiple projects?

    Share your approach to organization and time management, including tools or software you use to track project milestones and deadlines. Illustrate your ability to delegate tasks effectively while ensuring high-quality execution across multiple initiatives.

    Join Rise to see the full answer
    What strategies do you use for stakeholder management?

    Discuss your approach to building and maintaining relationships with clients and stakeholders. Emphasize the importance of communication, understanding their needs, and providing regular updates as part of your project management strategy.

    Join Rise to see the full answer
    How do you ensure compliance with engineering standards and regulations in your projects?

    Explain your familiarity with relevant engineering codes and standards. Describe how you incorporate compliance checks throughout the project lifecycle and maintain communication with design teams to ensure adherence to regulations.

    Join Rise to see the full answer
    Can you provide an example of a successful proposal you've led?

    Choose a specific proposal and outline your process for developing win themes, forming partnerships, and preparing for client presentations. Highlight how your leadership contributed to the proposal's success and the resulting impact on the project.

    Join Rise to see the full answer
    What approaches do you use to mentor junior engineers?

    Share your mentorship style and any specific methods you use to support junior engineers’ professional development. Discuss how you encourage a culture of collaboration and continuous learning while providing guidance on technical challenges.

    Join Rise to see the full answer
    How do you handle conflicts within a project team?

    Discuss your conflict resolution skills, including how you foster open communication and address issues early. Emphasize the importance of understanding diverse perspectives and finding mutually beneficial solutions to maintain team cohesion.

    Join Rise to see the full answer
    What is your experience with different project delivery methods?

    Provide an overview of your experience with various project delivery methods such as Design-Bid-Build, Design-Build, CM/GC, and Progressive Design-Build. Discuss how you've applied these methods to drive project efficiency and client satisfaction.

    Join Rise to see the full answer
    How do you incorporate feedback into your project management processes?

    Emphasize the value of feedback from clients, stakeholders, and team members. Discuss how you actively seek input, evaluate it constructively, and implement changes to improve project outcomes and processes continuously.

    Join Rise to see the full answer
    Why do you want to work as a Transit and Rail Technical Director at AECOM?

    In your response, connect your personal career goals with AECOM's mission and values. Highlight what excites you about the opportunity to impact infrastructure positively, work with a talented team, and contribute to projects that benefit communities.

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    DATE POSTED
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