Principal Rail Design Engineer / Sr Project Manager

At DEA, we are committed to improving how people and goods move through our communities. Our Transit and Rail Group is trusted by Class I railroads, industrial clients, ports, and public agencies to deliver critical infrastructure with precision and creativity. By integrating our in-house expertise across engineering, planning, environmental sciences, and surveying, we create smart, constructible solutions that support sustainable, forward-thinking transportation networks.

The Transit and Rail team is seeking a Principal Rail Design Engineer in the Puget Sound Region.

We're looking for a proactive leader and skilled engineer who thrives in a collaborative, client-focused environment. You'll be instrumental in transforming conceptual ideas into constructible design solutions - working closely with public and private partners to deliver meaningful transportation improvements.

• Serve as a technical lead on a wide range of railroad and rail transit projects-designing 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 closely with in-house teams and external stakeholders-including structural, geotechnical, architectural, environmental, and surveying professionals-to ensure cohesive project delivery.
• Engage directly with clients and 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, cultivating a culture of technical excellence and continuous learning.
• Serve as a resource and subject matter expert for staff development and design guidance.

• Lead and/or contribute to business development efforts through proposal preparation, client engagement, and marketing pursuits.
• Support resource planning and long-term strategic initiatives across our Transit and Rail practice.

• 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 and ability to present to both technical and public audiences
• Ability to travel periodically for project needs
• Demonstrated leadership skills and a collaborative, solutions-oriented mindset
• Proficiency with Bluebeam Studio and Microsoft Office Suite
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail

• 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

We foster an environment where talented professionals have the freedom and support to do their most meaningful work. Our values and company culture form the foundation of our success, creating a positive and collaborative work environment. These guiding principles are vital to our continued achievements and unwavering commitment to improving the world around us.

As a member of our team, you will have the opportunity to cultivate and develop your skills and work alongside talented colleagues who are committed to improving the quality of life while demonstrating stewardship of the built and natural environments.

• Comprehensive health coverage: Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, and Life Insurance
• Financial wellness: Health Savings Account (HSA) and Lifestyle Spending Account with employer contributions
• Professional development: Support for continuing education and training opportunities.
• Work-life balance: Paid Time Off (PTO) and Holiday Pay
• Work Schedule: Flexible 9/80 schedule-every other Friday off!
• Retirement: 401k plan
• Wellbeing focus: Holistic Wellbeing Program centered on physical, emotional, financial, career, and community health
• Growth opportunities: Access to mentorship, professional support, and pathways for career advancement
• Potential salary range: $150,000 - $200,000

* The posted salary range represents the typical range for this position and is provided in accordance with applicable state and local transparency laws. Actual compensation will be commensurate with experience, qualifications, and geographic location.

If you are a recruiter, search agency, or otherwise wish to refer a candidate to DEA, you will not be compensated in any way for your referral of a candidate to DEA without an active and signed written agreement in place in advance with DEA Human Resources. Any resume submitted to any DEA employee by an external recruiter without a written agreement in place at the time of submission will be considered the property of DEA and DEA will not be liable for the payment of a placement fee. If you would like to notify DEA of your interest in initiating a written agreement for services or to resumes, please e-mail careers@deainc.com.

Potential office locations include: Tacoma, WA; Seattle, WA; Olympia, WA; Tukwila, WA; Bellevue, WA; Woodinville, WA; Everett, WA; Bellingham, WA.