David Evans and Associates, Inc.
Principal Rail Design Engineer / Sr Project Manager - Tacoma, WA
David Evans and Associates, Inc., Tacoma, Washington, us, 98417
Overview
Principal Rail Design Engineer / Sr Project Manager – Tacoma, WA at David Evans and Associates, Inc. (DEA). The Transit and Rail team seeks a proactive leader and skilled engineer to transform conceptual ideas into constructible design solutions, working with public and private partners to deliver transportation improvements in the Puget Sound Region.
What You’ll Do
Serve as technical lead on railroad and rail transit projects—design track alignments, rail terminals, utilities, grading, drainage, erosion control, roadway improvements, and site development.
Lead projects from planning and feasibility through final design and construction support, ensuring compliance with industry standards, regulations, and client expectations.
Manage budgets, schedules, and deliverables to ensure high-quality outcomes.
Oversee preparation of plans, specifications, estimates (PS&E), and technical reports.
Perform QA/QC reviews and uphold rigorous quality standards throughout project lifecycles.
Coordinate with in-house teams and external stakeholders (structural, geotechnical, architectural, environmental, surveying) to ensure cohesive project delivery.
Engage directly with clients, attend site visits, field reviews, and design meetings as needed.
Provide post-design services including responding to RFIs, reviewing contractor submittals, supporting as-built documentation, and conducting site observations.
Supervise and mentor junior engineers and project managers, fostering technical excellence and continuous learning.
Lead or contribute to business development through proposals, client engagement, and marketing pursuits; support long-term strategic initiatives for the Transit and Rail practice.
What You Bring Required Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or related field
Washington State PE license (or ability to obtain within 3 months of hire)
10–20 years of relevant design experience with freight railroads, passenger rail, or transit projects
Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to present to technical and public audiences
Ability to travel periodically for project needs
Demonstrated leadership and a collaborative, solutions-oriented mindset
Proficiency with Bluebeam Studio and Microsoft Office Suite
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
Preferred Qualifications:
Proficiency in AutoCAD, Civil3D, MicroStation, and/or OpenRoads
Familiarity with Primavera P6 or Microsoft Project
Established relationships with local rail and transit agencies
Recognized expertise in rail design standards and engineering practices
What We Offer We foster an environment where professionals have the freedom and support to do meaningful work. DEA emphasizes a collaborative culture and commitment to improving communities and the built and natural environments.
Comprehensive health coverage: Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, and Life Insurance
Health Savings Account (HSA) and employer-contributed allowances
Professional development support for continuing education and training
Paid Time Off (PTO) and Holiday Pay
Flexible 9/80 schedule — every other Friday off
401(k) retirement plan
Holistic Wellbeing Program addressing physical, emotional, financial, career, and community health
Mentorship and pathways for career advancement
Potential salary range: $150,000 - $200,000 (actual compensation may vary by experience and location)
EEO Statement:
David Evans and Associates is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.
Additional Information Potential office locations include: Tacoma, WA; Seattle, WA; Olympia, WA; Tukwila, WA; Bellevue, WA; Woodinville, WA; Everett, WA; Bellingham, WA.
To express interest or discuss this role, please contact our careers team.
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What You’ll Do
Serve as technical lead on railroad and rail transit projects—design track alignments, rail terminals, utilities, grading, drainage, erosion control, roadway improvements, and site development.
Lead projects from planning and feasibility through final design and construction support, ensuring compliance with industry standards, regulations, and client expectations.
Manage budgets, schedules, and deliverables to ensure high-quality outcomes.
Oversee preparation of plans, specifications, estimates (PS&E), and technical reports.
Perform QA/QC reviews and uphold rigorous quality standards throughout project lifecycles.
Coordinate with in-house teams and external stakeholders (structural, geotechnical, architectural, environmental, surveying) to ensure cohesive project delivery.
Engage directly with clients, attend site visits, field reviews, and design meetings as needed.
Provide post-design services including responding to RFIs, reviewing contractor submittals, supporting as-built documentation, and conducting site observations.
Supervise and mentor junior engineers and project managers, fostering technical excellence and continuous learning.
Lead or contribute to business development through proposals, client engagement, and marketing pursuits; support long-term strategic initiatives for the Transit and Rail practice.
What You Bring Required Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or related field
Washington State PE license (or ability to obtain within 3 months of hire)
10–20 years of relevant design experience with freight railroads, passenger rail, or transit projects
Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to present to technical and public audiences
Ability to travel periodically for project needs
Demonstrated leadership and a collaborative, solutions-oriented mindset
Proficiency with Bluebeam Studio and Microsoft Office Suite
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
Preferred Qualifications:
Proficiency in AutoCAD, Civil3D, MicroStation, and/or OpenRoads
Familiarity with Primavera P6 or Microsoft Project
Established relationships with local rail and transit agencies
Recognized expertise in rail design standards and engineering practices
What We Offer We foster an environment where professionals have the freedom and support to do meaningful work. DEA emphasizes a collaborative culture and commitment to improving communities and the built and natural environments.
Comprehensive health coverage: Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, and Life Insurance
Health Savings Account (HSA) and employer-contributed allowances
Professional development support for continuing education and training
Paid Time Off (PTO) and Holiday Pay
Flexible 9/80 schedule — every other Friday off
401(k) retirement plan
Holistic Wellbeing Program addressing physical, emotional, financial, career, and community health
Mentorship and pathways for career advancement
Potential salary range: $150,000 - $200,000 (actual compensation may vary by experience and location)
EEO Statement:
David Evans and Associates is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.
Additional Information Potential office locations include: Tacoma, WA; Seattle, WA; Olympia, WA; Tukwila, WA; Bellevue, WA; Woodinville, WA; Everett, WA; Bellingham, WA.
To express interest or discuss this role, please contact our careers team.
#J-18808-Ljbffr