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Caltrans Project Manager Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Contracts Manager

Reston, VA · On-site

$159K - $231K/yr

Project Overview: Bechtel is among the most respected engineering, project management, and ... Caltrans) oversight and following Caltrans' standards and procedures, and on commuter and freight ...

Contracts Manager

Reston, VA · On-site +1

$159K - $231K/yr

Project Overview: Bechtel is among the most respected engineering, project management, and ... Caltrans) oversight and following Caltrans' standards and procedures, and on commuter and freight ...

Caltrans Project Manager information

What does a Caltrans Project Manager do?

A Caltrans Project Manager oversees transportation projects for the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), coordinating all aspects from planning through construction. They manage project budgets, timelines, and ensure compliance with state and federal regulations. Project Managers work with engineers, contractors, government agencies, and the public to deliver road, bridge, and infrastructure improvements safely and efficiently. Their role is crucial in maintaining and upgrading California’s transportation system.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Caltrans Project Manager?

To thrive as a Caltrans Project Manager, you need expertise in civil engineering, project management, and state transportation regulations, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field and relevant certifications. Familiarity with project management software (such as Microsoft Project), Caltrans standards, and budgeting tools is crucial. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help manage diverse teams and stakeholders effectively. These competencies ensure that infrastructure projects are completed safely, on time, within budget, and according to regulatory requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by a Caltrans Project Manager when coordinating with multiple stakeholders?

As a Caltrans Project Manager, one of the primary challenges is managing the expectations and input of various stakeholders, including local governments, contractors, environmental agencies, and the public. Balancing project timelines and budgets while ensuring regulatory compliance and maintaining clear communication can be complex. Successful project managers often develop strong negotiation and conflict-resolution skills to address concerns, keep projects on track, and foster collaborative relationships throughout the project lifecycle.

What is the difference between Caltrans Project Manager vs Civil Engineer?

AspectCaltrans Project ManagerCivil Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering or related field, PMP certification often preferredBachelor's or Master's in Civil Engineering, PE license often required
Work EnvironmentOversees transportation projects for Caltrans, manages teams and budgetsDesigns, analyzes, and supervises civil infrastructure projects
Employer & Industry UsageState transportation department, public sectorEngineering firms, construction companies, government agencies

While both roles require engineering knowledge and project oversight, Caltrans Project Managers focus on managing transportation projects within Caltrans, including planning, budgeting, and coordination. Civil Engineers often handle the technical design and analysis of infrastructure projects. The Project Manager role emphasizes leadership and project delivery, whereas Civil Engineers focus on technical engineering solutions.

What are popular job titles related to Caltrans Project Manager jobs in Virginia?

For Caltrans Project Manager jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Caltrans Project Manager jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Caltrans Project Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Caltrans Project Manager job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Contracts Manager

Bechtel

Reston, VA • On-site

$159K - $231K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Bechtel rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 65 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

285th of 449 rated engineering


Job description

Requisition ID: 296469
  • Relocation Authorized: None
  • Telework Type: Full-Time Telework
  • Work Location: Reston, VA
  • Salary Range: $159,700 - $231,000 annually (salary range is based on market data; final salary offered is determined by education, experience, and qualifications of the applicant.)

Extraordinary teams building inspiring projects:
Since 1898, we have helped customers complete more than 25,000 projects in 160 countries on all seven continents that have created jobs, grown economies, improved the resiliency of the world's infrastructure, increased access to energy, resources, and vital services, and made the world a safer, cleaner place.
Differentiated by the quality of our people and our relentless drive to deliver the most successful outcomes, we align our capabilities to our customers' objectives to create a lasting positive impact. We serve the Infrastructure; Nuclear, Security & Environmental; Energy; Mining & Metals, and the Manufacturing and Technology markets. Our services span from initial planning and investment, through start-up and operations.
Core to Bechtel is our Vision, Values and Commitments. They are what we believe, what customers can expect, and how we deliver. Learn more about our extraordinary teams building inspiring projects in our Impact Report.
Project Overview:
Bechtel is among the most respected engineering, project management, and construction companies in the world. Bechtel operates through four global business units that specialize in infrastructure; mining and metals; nuclear, security and environmental; and energy. Today, our colleague's team with customers, partners, and suppliers on diverse projects in nearly 40 countries. Bechtel is seeking a Contracts Manager to join the Riverside, California team. This team oversees the planning, environmental clearance, design, and construction of projects on the state highway system, and rail under California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) oversight and following Caltrans' standards and procedures, and on commuter and freight rail lines, under Federal Transit Administration (FTA), Southern California Regional Rail Authority (SCRRA), Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad (BNSF), and/or Union Pacific Railroad (UP) oversight and following their standards.
Job Summary:
The Contracts Manager will directly report to the Riverside Project Manager and oversee all contract management activities for the Riverside Project. This role requires expert oversight in package delivery, ensuring client compliance with regulatory and stakeholder requirements, procurement, risk management, and construction throughout all project phases. #LI-JL1
Major Responsibilities:
  • Implement a division of responsibilities matrix for contract management tasks and standard work processes.
  • Coordinate with the client's procurement team to review activities impacting contractual rights, obligations, performance, and administration.
  • Manage complex contract changes by collaborating with project coordinators and obtaining necessary approvals.
  • Communicate with the client to ensure awareness of contract provisions, vendor performance, compliance with terms and conditions, delivery schedules, cost-saving opportunities, and strategies for avoiding claims.
  • Review contractor progress reports to assess potential commercial impacts and advise the project management team accordingly.
  • Oversee the review and approval of contractor progress payments and invoices; manage "stop payment" requests and demands for payment from subconsultants. Facilitate contract close-out by ensuring all commercial, documentary, and technical requirements are met before substantial completion.
  • Provide support and guidance on effective contract management to the project team.
  • Assist the Project Manager with ad-hoc tasks and report preparations.

Education and Experience Requirements:
  • Requires bachelor's or master's degree (or international equivalent) and 13-15 years of relevant experience or 17-19 years of relevant work experience.

Required Knowledge and Skills:
  • Advanced knowledge of contract regulations, policies, and practices.
  • Specialized training or experience in pricing, contract law, negotiations, and accounting.
  • Experience in managing various contract types, fee arrangements, and terms.
  • Ability to develop and propose solutions to contractual issues.
  • Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
  • Strong interpersonal skills to build effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
  • Familiarity with engineering and construction industry contracting practices, policies, procedures, and work practices.
  • Understanding of confidentiality protocols for company and client information.
  • Confidence in interacting with senior managers, client executives, and government agencies.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.

Total Rewards/Benefits:
For decades, Bechtel has worked to inspire the next generation of employees and beyond! Because our teams face some of the world's toughest challenges, we offer robust benefits to ensure our people thrive. Whether it is advancing careers, delivering programs to enhance our culture, or providing time to recharge, Bechtel has the benefits to build a legacy of sustainable growth. Learn more at Bechtel Total Rewards
Diverse teams build the extraordinary:
As a global company, Bechtel has long been home to a vibrant multitude of nationalities, cultures, ethnicities, and life experiences. This diversity has made us a more trusted partner, more effective problem solvers and innovators, and a more attractive destination for leading talent.
We are committed to being a company where every colleague feels that they belong-where colleagues feel part of "One Team," respected and rewarded for what they bring, supported in pursuing their goals, invested in our values and purpose, and treated equitably. Click here to learn more about the people who power our legacy.
At Bechtel, our employees enjoy a competitive total rewards package that includes comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans, along with optional disability and supplemental insurance options, generous paid time off (160 hours annually, accrued 6.16 hours per pay period), nine paid holidays, paid parental leave, discretionary bonuses, and a well-designed 401K plan with matching and profit-sharing components
Bechtel is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, age, national origin, disability, citizenship status (except as authorized by law), protected veteran status, genetic information, and any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. Applicants with a disability, who require a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, may e-mail their request to acesstmt@bechtel.com

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