Transportation Project Director

Mark Thomas is hiring an experienced Project Director to add to our transportation team! The Project Director is highly seasoned and dynamic project manager with strong and diverse project experience within the region. This pivotal role is ideal for an accomplished leader with a proven track record in winning and delivering transportation projects, fostering employee development, and maintaining the highest standards of quality. The successful candidate will be a recognized figure within the transportation industry, known for their strong professional network, exemplary leadership, and unwavering commitment to excellence. A key expectation for this role is demonstrated strength in business development, including the ability to identify, pursue, and secure new project opportunities that benefit both our organization and the communities we serve. Additionally, the Project Director can act as a deputy to the Division Manager as needed and is instrumental in implementing divisional strategies and process improvements. General Responsibilities Leads and manages multidisciplinary teams across a wide range of transportation projects. Supervises all phases of project delivery, from conceptualization and planning through design, construction, and close-out, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality and client satisfaction standards. Establishes and maintains strong client relationships, leveraging industry connections to foster business development opportunities and secure new projects. Drives business growth by proactively identifying opportunities within local and regional communities, preparing compelling proposals, and leading pursuits to win new work. Partners with business development and marketing professionals to pursue project opportunities. Communicates technical approaches and proposal strategies to staff, clients, and sub-consultants. Specific Responsibilities Provides oversight and accountability for complex projects and project teams. Achieves the established targets for financial success & utilization, including but not limited to revenue, profitability, and work in progress (WIP). Manages risk properly including written business agreements/contracts, scopes of work, claims, WIP, write-offs Partners with business development and marketing professionals to pursue project opportunities. Communicates technical approaches and proposal strategies to staff, clients, and sub-consultants. Engages with internal business partners, elected officials, and community leaders to understand evolving transportation needs and position the organization as a trusted partner in delivering impactful solutions. Mentors, coaches, and develops project staff, creating a culture of continuous learning and professional growth within the team. Implements and upholds rigorous quality assurance and control processes to ensure technical excellence and compliance with all relevant client and delivery standards. Acts as a subject matter expert, providing guidance on best practices, innovative solutions, and industry trends to both internal teams and external stakeholders. Proactively identify risks and issues, developing effective mitigation strategies to resolve challenges and maintain project momentum. Implements process improvements and supports divisional strategic initiatives. Supports staff recruitment, retention, and professional development. Participates in division planning, resource management, and operational meetings. Promotes an inclusive and collaborative work environment. Performs quality control and audit measures for project work. Education, Experience, Skills & Certifications Meets/exceeds competencies of a Senior Project Manager BS in civil engineering or related discipline Minimum of 20+ years of progressive experience managing transportation projects of varying size and complexity. Registered engineer in state of residence and California PE license required or ability to obtain within one year. Demonstrated proficiency and knowledge of general engineering and design principles Knowledge of overall project deliverable processes (PSR, PAED, PS&E) Demonstrated experience in leading, developing, and motivating high-performing teams. Exceptional business development acumen, with a history of winning and delivering projects that contribute to both organizational growth and community advancement. Extensive professional network and strong reputation within the transportation industry. Proven ability to deliver projects on schedule, within budget, and to the client’s satisfaction. Exceptional communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills. Comprehensive knowledge of transportation industry standards, regulations, and best practices. Demonstrated ability to chase, sell, and consistently win large projects with new and existing clients Competent/outstanding verbal and written communication skills Demonstrated knowledge of project management practices Demonstrated understanding of project financials and metrics Ability to develop and maintain professional relationships with a variety of unique and diverse people and personalities Benefits And Compensation Mark Thomas offers a fantastic benefits and compensation package to include: Competitive salary and incentives to include employee referral bonuses and eligibility for year-end performance incentives 401k and ESOP retirement benefits to include profit sharing and a 401k match Paid-time off benefits to include PTO, public holidays + additional holidays, bereavement leave, jury/civic time, licensing & certification exam time Employer-paid vision insurance, basic life insurance, short-term & long-term disability, inclusive family planning & fertility resources, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), travel insurance, and in-house wellness education & challenges Voluntary medical and dental insurance, life insurance, and pet insurance FSA programs for medical, dependent care, commuter & parking Reimbursements for certification and licensing exams and study classes and materials Tuition reimbursement, paid annual dues for industry professional/societal organizations, memberships, and events Budgeted time for training and career development Flexible schedules and hybrid and primarily remote work environments The offered rate of compensation (California locations only) will be based on individual education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities in addition to internal equity and geographic location. Qualified candidates must work out of the Cupertino districts office at least 2 days a week and more often when business dictates. Qualified applications with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act. The successful candidate selected for hire will need to submit to a background check due to key internal and external leadership responsibilities required for this position following the extension of a conditional offer. Mark Thomas is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender perception or identity, national origin, age, marital status, protected veteran status, or disability status. Mark Thomas welcomes all.