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Caltrans Project Manager Jobs in Modesto, CA (NOW HIRING)

711 Materials, Inc.

Quality Control Technician

Modesto, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Comply with ASTM, ACI, AASHTO, and Caltrans specifications for sampling and testing construction ... Communicate with upper management and outside companies or agencies to report material testing data

711 Materials, Inc.

Quality Control Technician

Modesto, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Comply with ASTM, ACI, AASHTO, and Caltrans specifications for sampling and testing construction ... Communicate with upper management and outside companies or agencies to report material testing data

All JobsCaltrans Project JobsCaltrans Project Manager JobsCaltrans Project Manager Jobs in Modesto, CA

Caltrans Project Manager information

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

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 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 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 job categories do people searching Caltrans Project Manager jobs in Modesto, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Caltrans Project Manager jobs in Modesto, CA are:
What cities near Modesto, CA are hiring for Caltrans Project Manager jobs? Cities near Modesto, CA with the most Caltrans Project Manager job openings:
Caltrans Project Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Caltrans Project Manager job openings in Modesto, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Hybrid job distribution.
Manager, Project Management

Manager, Project Management

Tennyson Electric Inc

Livermore, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Salary: 120,000-180,000

Job Summary:

The position above is tasked with overseeing the Project Management Organization (PMO). The PMO consists of multiple Project Managers, Project Coordinators and a Manager of Project Coordinators. The person in this position should plan on creating, modifying, implementing, and executing best practices which align with industry standards and Tennysons playbook, core values and keys to success. The PMO manager will play a critical role of supporting and advancing Tennysons culture as described in our playbook, with a key focus on safety, accountability, performance and customer service. The PMO manager should anticipate their role in handling the daily responsibilities below.


Duties/Responsibilities:

  • Plan/Direct/Consult construction activities across Project Managers, Project Coordinators, and Field Superintendents/Foremen/General Foremen
  • Responsible for project profitability performance and overall performance of the projects
  • Accountable for reviewing costs, hours, WIPs (estimates to complete), invoicing, variances, and other monthly reporting
  • Interface with public agencies, public utilities, industry associations, and general contractors on behalf of Tennyson.
  • Oversee field operations, production rates, and ensure quality control so that projects assigned to Project Managers meets TEIs standards.
  • Review/revise budgets with the Project Managers, and participate in handoff meetings between Estimating and Project Managers
  • Handle escalated problems with customers, vendors, and department
  • Resolve intercompany conflicts to advance company teamwork
  • Visit job sites to spot check quality, policy enforcement, and team building
  • Coach, promote, develop and teach PMO employees
  • Review newly awarded jobs and assign responsibilities/jobs/projects to PM team members
  • Create/Analyze personnel, software and other needs for the department
  • Negotiate and consult large change orders and claims above Project Managers financial approval authorization.
  • Bridge the gap between Estimating and Project Management.
  • Review and assist with dispute resolution, claims management and legal issues
  • Identify, mitigate and manage project risks

Required Skills/Abilities:

  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
  • Excellent customer service skills.
  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Strong supervisory and leadership skills.
  • Ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate them when appropriate.
  • Ability to function well in a high-paced and at times stressful environment.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office, and Excel
  • Valid state drivers license


Education and Experience:

  • Bachelor's degree in construction management, business, engineering or a related field
  • Minimum 10 years experience in the construction industry performing responsibilities equivalent to those listed above
  • Proven ability to solve problems creatively.
  • Strong familiarity with project management software tools, methodologies, and best practices
  • Experience seeing projects through the full project lifecycle.
  • Experience with Caltrans, California State public work projects, Traffic Control and low-voltage electric projects preferred
  • Experience managing projects and personnel at a company(s) as both a General Contractor and Subcontractor
  • Detail-oriented with excellent analytical skills
  • Strong interpersonal skills and extremely resourceful
  • Proven ability to complete projects according to outlined scope, budget, and timeline
  • A willingness to be part of a team
  • PMP or CAPM certification preferred


Physical Requirements:

Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.

Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.

Driving to work sites.


Benefits:

Vision, Dental, Medical

401k after eligibility has been met

2 weeks paid vacation time

8 Paid Holidays

Disclosures:

This job description is not a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.