Structural Project Manager

About the role

The Structural Project Manager will lead and manage structural engineering projects involving MDOT bridge design, rehabilitation, and inspection. They will collaborate with a team of professionals, serving as the primary client contact for MDOT and other stakeholders, and overseeing project schedules, budgets, and deliverables.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage structural engineering projects involving MDOT bridge design, rehabilitation, and inspection.
• Serve as the primary client contact for MDOT and other stakeholders, ensuring compliance with MDOT Bridge Design Guide (BDG), AASHTO LRFD, and project-specific requirements.
• Oversee preparation of bridge design plans, specifications, and cost estimates in accordance with MDOT standards.
• Coverage of multidisciplinary teams, including roadway, geotechnical, and hydraulics, to ensure integrated project delivery.
• Manage project schedules, budgets, and deliverables to meet contractual and quality requirements.
• Conduct quality control (QC) and quality assurance (QA) reviews on structural calculations, drawings, and reports.
• Supervise and mentor junior engineers, designers, and technicians, providing technical guidance and career development support.
• Facilitate project progress meetings with clients, contractors, and internal teams.
• Review and approve shop drawings, RFIs, and construction submittals for structural compliance.
• Perform site visits for construction observation, bridge inspection, and condition assessment.
• Prepare and review load ratings in accordance with MDOT requirements.
• Ensure all work complies with applicable codes, standards, and safety regulations.
• Support business development activities, including proposal preparation, cost estimating, and client presentations.
• Maintain professional licensure in Michigan and fulfill continuing education requirements.

Requirements

• Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in Michigan (required).
• 10+ years of structural engineering experience with a focus on bridge design, rehabilitation, and inspection.
• Strong familiarity with MDOT standards, including Bridge Design Guide (BDG), AASHTO LRFD, MDOT load rating requirements, and CADD standards.
• Proven experience delivering MDOT bridge projects from concept through construction.
• Ability to perform and review complex structural calculations and load ratings.
• Proficiency in relevant engineering software (e.g., MDOT MiBridge, LEAP Bridge, MDX & MicroStation).
• Demonstrated experience managing project scope, schedule, and budget for multiple concurrent projects.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to mentor and supervise engineers, designers, and technicians.
• Experience leading multi-disciplinary coordination with roadway, hydraulics, geotechnical, and environmental teams.
• Ability to oversee QC/QA processes to ensure deliverables meet MDOT and industry standards.
• Strong client relationship skills, particularly with MDOT staff and local agencies.
• Effective verbal and written communication, including technical writing and presentation abilities.
• Proven track record of managing client expectations and resolving project challenges proactively.
• Business development experience, including proposal writing and pursuit strategy for MDOT projects.
• Able to travel for site visits, inspections, and meetings as needed.
• Commitment to continuous improvement, safety, and quality in engineering practices.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or related field.
• Experience: Minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in structural engineering.
• Software: Proficiency in relevant engineering software (e.g., MDOT MiBridge, LEAP Bridge, MDX & MicroStation).

Skills

• Project Management
• Structural Engineering
• Client Relationship Management
• Technical Writing
• Leadership
• Quality Assurance

Benefits

Benesch offers a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Up to 9% retirement contribution for benefit-eligible employees
• Flexible scheduling
• Generous paid time off
• Paid parental leave
• Continuous learning and development opportunities
• Comprehensive health and wellness programs

Pay

Compensation is competitive and commensurate with experience.

Schedule

The Structural Project Manager will work a standard Monday through Friday schedule, with occasional travel required.