California Transportation and Bridge Lead

DESCRIPTION

Michael Baker International is seeking a visionary Vice President, California Transportation and Bridge Practice Lead to drive strategic growth, client engagement, and project excellence across our transportation practice in California. This is a high-impact leadership role with the opportunity to influence major infrastructure initiatives and collaborate with top-tier professionals across Michael Baker’s Western Region.

As a key leader within the Western Region, the Vice President will collaborate across geographies and disciplines to expand our market presence, enhance technical capabilities, and deliver high-quality infrastructure solutions. This role requires a visionary leader with deep industry knowledge, strong client relationships, and a proven track record in delivering complex transportation projects.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Strategic Leadership & Growth
  • Lead business development and client engagement strategies to expand our Transportation and Bridge portfolio across California.
  • Lead the Identification and pursuit of new opportunities, including alternative delivery methods (e.g., design-build, P3).
  • Partner with local and regional leadership to align technical capabilities with market needs and client expectations.
• Project Delivery & Technical Excellence
  • Serve as Program Manager, Project Principal, or Technical Advisor on key transportation projects.
  • Provide technical oversight and mentorship to project teams, ensuring quality, innovation, and compliance with industry standards.
  • Support pursuit strategies and proposal development for major regional and national opportunities.
• Collaboration & Integration
  • Coordinate regularly with Office Executives, Department Managers, and Regional Practice Leads to ensure seamless project execution and resource alignment.
  • Foster cross-discipline collaboration to deliver integrated solutions and leverage firm-wide capabilities.
• Client & Industry Engagement
  • Build and maintain trusted relationships with clients, partners, and industry stakeholders.
  • Represent Michael Baker strategically at industry events, conferences, and technical committees to elevate our brand and thought leadership.
• Operational Excellence
  • Monitor project performance, quality assurance, and financial metrics to ensure successful outcomes.
  • Promote a culture of innovation, and continuous improvement across all operations.
• Talent Development
  • Mentor and develop emerging leaders and technical staff.
  • Support recruiting efforts to attract top talent and build a high-performing team

PROFESSIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil or Structural Engineering (Master’s preferred)
• Professional Engineer (PE) license required; SE or AICP a plus
• 20+ years of progressive experience in transportation infrastructure, with a focus on Transportation and bridges
• Recognized industry leader with a strong professional network in California
• Proven success in strategic business growth, business development, project delivery, and team leadership
• Experience with multiple project delivery methods, including alternative delivery
• Exceptional communication, collaboration, and relationship-building skills

COMPENSATION

The compensation range for this position is up to $300,000 and will depend on the incoming candidates experience and skill set. 

BENEFITS

 We offer a comprehensive benefits package including:   

• Medical, dental, vision insurance   
• 401k Retirement Plan   
• Health Savings Account (HSA)   
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)   
• Life, AD&D, short-term, and long-term disability   
• Professional and personal development   
• Generous paid time off   
• Commuter and wellness benefits 

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