Senior Project Manager - Rail & Transit Architecture

RAIL & TRANSIT ARCHITECTURE PRACTICE

Michael Baker creates passenger-focused rail and transit facilities that connect people, communities and transportation networks.

Our integrated architecture and engineering teams plan and design intercity and commuter rail stations, multimodal centers, light rail and BRT stations, bus and maintenance facilities, and transit administration buildings.

From modernizing active stations to developing new facilities, we integrate architecture, engineering, accessibility, sustainability and transit operations to create safe, welcoming environments that enhance the passenger experience, support reliable operations and deliver lasting value.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Michael Baker International is seeking an experienced, growth-oriented Senior Project Manager to lead rail and transit architecture pursuits and project delivery in the Chicago market while helping establish and grow a local architecture office.

This highly visible leadership role combines client development, project execution, team building, and office leadership, supported by Michael Baker's integrated national architecture, engineering, and transportation expertise.

This opportunity is ideal for a credentialed architect and seller-doer who can translate established relationships with Chicago-area transit agencies into a sustainable pipeline of work.

The successful candidate will lead complex, multi-disciplinary projects, strengthen relationships with Metra, Chicago Transit Authority, and other Great Lakes transportation clients, recruit and mentor a high-performing local team, and create a collaborative Chicago presence that connects seamlessly with Michael Baker's national practice.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES


* Manage project scope, schedule, budget, staffing, quality, risk, and client expectations to achieve strong technical and financial performance.


* Develop project work plans and mobilize the best resources across local, regional, and geographically dispersed teams.


* Serve as the local architecture leader in Chicago, maintaining a visible in-person presence (approximately three days per week) and building an inclusive, collaborative, and accountable office culture.


* Develop and execute a Chicago rail and transit architecture growth plan, including target clients, priority pursuits, teaming strategies, and near- and long-term staffing needs.


* Identify, evaluate, and advance opportunities; lead capture planning; shape win strategies; and contribute to compelling proposals, interviews, and negotiations.


* Recruit, mentor, and retain architectural talent as workload grows, establishing a scalable local team supported by national technical and design resources.


* Collaborate with operations, market leaders, and technical teams to align Chicago growth, staffing, project execution, and financial performance with broader business goals.


* Represent Michael Baker in client meetings, transit-industry organizations, civic...