POSITION SUMMARY:

The Assistant Vice President (AVP) – Structures & Projects is a key leadership role within the Engineering Department, responsible for executing grant-funded infrastructure projects across our portfolio of railroads, while also serving as the Company’s lead Bridge Engineer. This hybrid role oversees all aspects of capital project delivery—including bid development, material coordination, and field execution—as well as strategic and technical leadership of the Company’s Bridge Management Program.
The AVP will ensure the safe and effective maintenance, rehabilitation, and improvement of the Company’s bridge assets. Responsibilities include planning and executing bridge capital projects, overseeing inspections, approving high/wide clearances, and ensuring regulatory compliance. This position plays a vital role in preserving infrastructure integrity and advancing the company’s long-term capital investment strategy.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, Construction Management, or related field (Master’s preferred).
• Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred, with emphasis in structural or bridge engineering.
• 10+ years of experience in railroad or transportation infrastructure, including field execution, bridge engineering, and grant management.
• Strong working knowledge of FRA regulations, including Parts 213, 214, 234, 236, 237, and 238.
• Experience managing FRA grant programs (e.g., CRISI, Section 130), and familiarity with public agency procurement and reporting processes.
• Proven experience in preparing bid documents, managing contractors, and overseeing material procurement.
• Excellent communication and project management skills, with attention to detail and documentation.
• Ability to work independently and travel regularly to shortline railroad locations.
• Familiarity with shortline or regional railroad operations strongly preferred.

• Grant Development & Management:
• Assist in identifying, pursuing, and managing federal and state grant opportunities aligned with the company’s infrastructure priorities.
• Assist in preparation and submission of grant applications, including narratives, cost estimates, benefit-cost analysis, and schedules.
• Serve as the primary contact for FRA, state DOTs, and funding partners throughout the grant lifecycle.
• Project Delivery & Execution:
• Develop and manage detailed project plans from scoping to completion, with a focus on field readiness and coordination.
• Prepare bid packages and manage the competitive bidding process in compliance with funding source requirements.
• Oversee material procurement, logistics, and delivery coordination to ensure timely availability of track, bridge, and civil materials.
• Provide quality oversight and ensure construction is completed per plans, specifications, and industry standards.
• Coordinate with contractors, vendors, and local railroad managers to align execution with operational constraints.
• Bridge Engineering & Structures Oversight:
• Manage the Company’s Bridge Management Program, ensuring compliance with FRA bridge safety standards.
• Manage the Company’s Bridge Construction and OSHA Working from Heights Safety Program.
• Plan and oversee bridge inspections, maintenance, and capital improvement projects.
• Develop bridge rehabilitation and replacement strategies based on structural assessments and operational needs.
• Approve and coordinate high and wide clearance movements across the network.
• Provide technical review and approval for structural designs, ratings, and modifications.
• Collaborate with field personnel to ensure safe and efficient bridge work execution.
• Maintain up-to-date bridge inventory, condition data, and inspection schedules.
• Section 130 Program Oversight:
• Identify and scope highway-rail grade crossing safety projects with state partners.
• Oversee design, procurement, and implementation of crossing improvements, closures, and signal work in accordance with federal and state requirements.
• CRISI & Discretionary Grant Program Execution:
• Guide development and delivery of CRISI-funded projects including track upgrades, bridge work, safety enhancements, and technology integration.
• Manage post-award compliance including environmental documentation, procurement standards, and performance reporting.
• Compliance & Reporting:
• Ensure strict adherence to federal and state program requirements, including Buy America, Davis-Bacon, Title VI, NEPA, and FRA safety regulations.
• Maintain accurate project documentation and submit all required financial, progress, and closeout reports.
• Coordinate with internal finance and legal teams for audit readiness and financial tracking.