Lead and design roadway projects for IDOT and local agencies, mentor junior engineers, and manage client communications while ensuring compliance with engineering standards.
Valdes is seeking a Senior Highway Engineer to lead the planning and design of highway and roadway projects, with a primary focus on Illinois-based IDOT and county projects, as well as a future vision for expanding into Midwest markets. The ideal candidate will bring strong technical expertise in roadway geometry, drainage, traffic, and MOT, and will be a key player in growing the firm's IDOT prequalification categories and supporting regional market capture, including Indiana DOT opportunities.
This role combines technical excellence with leadership potential, offering a clear pathway to grow into a director-level position. Candidates must hold a PE in Illinois, with a PE in Indiana preferred, or be willing to obtain one within 12 months. This position offers collaboration across Valdes' multidisciplinary teams and active involvement in shaping our transportation strategy across the region.
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 modernization
- Prepare 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 standards
- Develop traffic control and staging plans, MOT, and complete streets elements, incorporating ADA and context-sensitive design
- Coordinate with internal teams (survey, structures, construction, MEP, GIS) and external subconsultants to deliver fully integrated solutions
- Mentor junior engineers and participate in internal QA/QC and project reviews
- Assist in developing and submitting documentation to expand IDOT and INDOT prequalifications, including resumes, project data, and technical narratives
- Serve as a client-facing representative, attending meetings and maintaining strong communication with IDOT, Tollway, and municipal stakeholders
- Use 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 development
- Participate in professional organizations (ASCE, ITE, ACEC, etc.) and represent Valdes at industry events and conferences
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or related field
- Licensed PE in Illinois (required)
- Indiana PE preferred, or willingness to obtain within 12 months
- 5+ years of progressive experience in highway and roadway planning and design
- Deep knowledge of IDOT and FHWA standards and processes
- Proficiency with relevant design software (Civil 3D, OpenRoads, etc.)
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to manage multiple projects and collaborate across departments.
- Experience with INDOT, Tollway, or municipal DOT projects
- Familiarity with IDOT BDE, BLRS, and Phase I/II documentation requirements
- Experience in traffic studies, permitting, or environmental documentation
- Involvement in professional associations and industry networking
- Must possess exceptional interpersonal and organizational skills
- Must be able to work in the US without sponsorship now or in the future
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