Phase I / Preliminary Engineering Project Manager

What You Will Do

GFT is seeking a Phase I/Preliminary Engineering Project Manager to join our Roadway Team in Illinois. This role follows a hybrid work model, requiring regular attendance at either our Chicago or Schaumburg, IL office.

What You’ll Be Challenged To Do

• Manage and deliver roadway alignments, feasibility studies, conceptual designs, and preliminary alternatives for NEPA environmental documentation.
• Prepare cost estimates, technical reports, and documentation required for project approvals.
• Oversee projects aligned with experience level, including budgeting, scope, scheduling, and client coordination.
• Identify challenges and implement adaptive, creative solutions throughout the project lifecycle.

Education | Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering or related degree
• Professional Engineer (P.E.) license
• Minimum of 10 years of experience with IDOT, Tollway, local agency Phase I projects
• Experience with an emphasis in roadway, highway, and bridge design
• Experience/working knowledge with design software tools including MicroStation, Open Roads and GEOPAK is required
• Master’s Degree with a Transportation Focus preferred

Featured Benefits

• Hybrid (in-person and remote) work environment
• Comprehensive benefits package including wellness programs, parental leave, and pet insurance, in addition to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance
• Tax-deferred 401(k) savings plan
• Competitive paid-time-off (PTO) accrual
• Tuition reimbursement for continued education
• Incentive compensation for eligible positions

Company Overview

At GFT, a privately held AEC firm, we innovate where transportation, water, power, and buildings converge. We call this the Infrastructure of Life. We measure our success by the strength of our relationships – that’s why we’re the employer of choice for 5,000+ of the industry’s brightest engineers, planners, architects, inspectors, designers, and more. Our clients choose us for our expertise and prefer us for our nimble approach, creativity, and personal touch. Backed by over a century’s experience, together we’re building a lasting legacy for future generations: stronger communities, a healthier planet, and better lives.

About the Role

This role follows a hybrid work model, requiring regular attendance at either our Chicago or Schaumburg, IL office.

Qualifications

• Experience with an emphasis in roadway, highway, and bridge design
• Minimum of 10 years of experience with IDOT, Tollway, local agency Phase I projects
• Experience/working knowledge with design software tools including MicroStation, Open Roads and GEOPAK is required
• Master’s Degree with a Transportation Focus preferred

Skills

• Strong technical expertise
• Leadership skills
• Public engagement
• Technical deliverables
• Project management
• Innovation & problem-solving

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package including wellness programs, parental leave, and pet insurance, in addition to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance
• Tax-deferred 401(k) savings plan
• Competitive paid-time-off (PTO) accrual
• Tuition reimbursement for continued education
• Incentive compensation for eligible positions

Pay

$140,000 - $200,000 Salary dependent upon experience and geographic location

Schedule

Core Business Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM