Senior Highway Engineer

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.

• 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

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or related field
• Licensed PE in Illinois (required)
• Indiana PE preferred, or willingness to obtain within 12 months
• 10+ 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