1

Caltrans Project Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

As a Project Manager , you'll lead multidisciplinary teams on complex highway, roadway, and active ... Ensure compliance with Caltrans, AASHTO, and local agency standards, as well as PS&E package ...

As a Senior Project Manager , you will drive the success of complex highway, roadway, and active ... Provide senior technical oversight and ensure quality compliance with Caltrans, AASHTO, and local ...

As a Senior Project Manager , you will drive the success of complex highway, roadway, and active ... Provide senior technical oversight and ensure quality compliance with Caltrans, AASHTO, and local ...

As a Senior Project Manager , you will drive the success of complex highway, roadway, and active ... Provide senior technical oversight and ensure quality compliance with Caltrans, AASHTO, and local ...

As a Senior Project Manager , you will drive the success of complex highway, roadway, and active ... Provide senior technical oversight and ensure quality compliance with Caltrans, AASHTO, and local ...

Senior Project Manager

Santa Ana, CA · Hybrid

$120K - $165K/yr

Senior Project Manager - Wet Utilities (Southern California) Pay Range: $120,000 - $165,000/year ... Hands-on knowledge of Greenbook and Caltrans specifications * Experience with Planswift for ...

Senior Project Manager

Riverside, CA · Hybrid

$120K - $165K/yr

Senior Project Manager - Wet Utilities (Southern California) Pay Range: $120,000 - $165,000/year ... Hands-on knowledge of Greenbook and Caltrans specifications * Experience with Planswift for ...

Senior Project Manager

Corona, CA · Hybrid

$120K - $165K/yr

Senior Project Manager - Wet Utilities (Southern California) Pay Range: $120,000 - $165,000/year ... Hands-on knowledge of Greenbook and Caltrans specifications * Experience with Planswift for ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Caltrans Project Manager information

Is it hard to get hired by Caltrans?

Getting hired as a Caltrans Project Manager can be competitive due to the specialized skills and experience required, such as knowledge of transportation projects, project management, and relevant certifications. Candidates often need a strong background in civil engineering, construction management, or related fields, along with experience in public agency environments. The hiring process typically involves multiple steps, including exams, interviews, and background checks.

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 jobs pay $6,000 a month?

A Caltrans Project Manager can earn around $6,000 or more per month, depending on experience, location, and project scope. Typically, these roles require a bachelor's degree in engineering or related fields, project management skills, and relevant certifications such as PMP. Salaries vary based on complexity of projects and years of experience, with senior managers earning higher compensation.

What is the highest paying project manager?

The highest paying project managers are often those in industries like engineering, IT, or construction with extensive experience and certifications such as PMP. Senior project managers overseeing large, complex projects or working in high-demand sectors tend to earn the highest salaries, which can exceed six figures annually.

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.

How much do Caltrans managers make?

Caltrans project managers typically earn between $80,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and level of responsibility. Salaries can vary based on certifications, such as PMP, and the complexity of projects managed.

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.

More about Caltrans Project Manager jobs
What cities are hiring for Caltrans Project Manager jobs? Cities with the most Caltrans Project Manager job openings:
What states have the most Caltrans Project Manager jobs? States with the most job openings for Caltrans Project Manager jobs include:
Infographic showing various Caltrans Project Manager job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.
Project Manager- Highways Roads

Project Manager- Highways Roads

GHD

Irvine, CA • Hybrid

Other

Posted 7 days ago


GHD rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Bring your curiosity and determination to make a positive impact on the future of transport, and we'll help you go all the way. 

Shape the Future of Transportation with Us

Join a dynamic team of transportation professionals dedicated to delivering innovative, sustainable, and community-focused infrastructure solutions. As a Project Manager, you'll lead multidisciplinary teams on complex highway, roadway, and active transportation projects, collaborating with public and private sector clients to deliver impactful results from concept through construction.

Who are we looking for?   

GHD's US West Region seeks an experienced and driven Project Manager - Highways/Roads to support and grow our Highways, Roads, Bridges practice throughout the California, Arizona and the US West. We're looking for a proactive leader with a passion for delivering high-quality projects, mentoring teams, and building lasting client relationships. 

Location

Position can be based in any of our California offices (Irvine, Long Beach, Los Angeles, San Diego, Fresno, Concord, Santa Rosa, Roseville, San Francisco, Sacramento, San Luis Obispo, Redding, or Eureka) or Phoenix, Arizona..

Our Hybrid Work Model: Be part of the dynamic culture!  Our workplace thrives on a hybrid model, combining in-office collaboration and flexibility.  Join us in the office three days a week to contribute, connect and excel in our vibrant environment.

Working with an energetic and high performing team, this position offers a variety of work and will see you involved in: 

  • Project Leadership & Delivery: Oversee the planning, design, and delivery of transportation projects, including highways, interchanges, local roads, roundabouts, trails, and bridges. Ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.
  • Client & Stakeholder Engagement: Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, agencies, and stakeholders. Develop and implement stakeholder engagement strategies to foster positive relationships and ensure project success.
  • Team Management & Development: Lead and mentor multidisciplinary project teams, fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment. Support staff development through coaching, training, and performance feedback.
  • Project Controls & Financial Management: Develop and manage project budgets, schedules, and resources. Monitor project performance, prepare progress reports, and proactively address risks and issues.
  • Technical Excellence: Provide technical oversight and quality assurance for project deliverables. Ensure compliance with Caltrans, AASHTO, and local agency standards, as well as PS&E package development requirements.
  • Business Development: Lead or support proposal development, client presentations, and interviews. Identify and pursue new business opportunities with existing and prospective clients.
  • Innovation & Best Practices: Champion the adoption of innovative solutions, digital tools, and industry best practices to enhance project delivery and client value.
  • Change & Risk Management: Implement structured change management and risk mitigation strategies to ensure successful project outcomes.
  • Professional Development: Actively participate in industry organizations (e.g., ASCE, APWA, WTS) and pursue continuing education to stay current with emerging trends and best practices.

Education

  • Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering or related field. 
     

Experience

  • 8+ years of experience in transportation project management, with a strong background in planning, design and delivery of highway and roadway projects.
  • Registered Civil Engineer in the State of California or Arizona Required
  • 8+ years of experience in transportation project management, with a strong background in planning, design and delivery of highway and roadway projects.
  • Proven experience managing projects for Caltrans, local agencies, and federally funded programs.
  • Proficiency with project management software and tools (e.g. MS Project, Earned-Value tracking, etc.).
  • Strong knowledge of Caltrans and AASHTO standards, and experience with  PS&E package development.
  • Excellent communication, leadership, and organizational skills. 
  • Experience with alternative delivery methods (e.g., Design-Build, CMGC) is a plus. 
  • Experience managing multi-office or multi-disciplinary teams is preferred.
  • Experience working in a consulting environment and managing multiple concurrent projects is preferred.

As a multicultural organization, we encourage individual achievement and recognize the strength of a diverse workforce. GHD is an equal opportunity employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants without regard to race; color; religion; genetic information; national origin; sex (including same sex); sexual orientation; gender identity; pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; age; disability or handicap; citizenship status; service member status; or any other category protected by federal, state, or local law.

Salary Range: $89,348-$148,913 based on experience

#LI-KM1

Take on some of the world's toughest challenges - with GHD supporting you every step of the way.
We'll give you control over your career, empower you to find innovative solutions and help you create a lasting impact.
See where your commitment could take you with GHD.
Our Pledge to You
At GHD, we don't just believe in the power of commitment, we live and breathe it every day.
That's why we pledge to empower our people to make a positive impact. Combining our deep technical expertise with the capabilities of our clients and partners, we respond to some of the most complex challenges facing our planet today. 
See where your commitment could take you.
That's the #PowerOfCommitment
Who we are 
GHD is a global professional services company that leads through engineering, architecture, and construction expertise. We are an employee-owned company with over 11,000 diverse and skilled individuals, across more than 200 offices spanning five continents.
The Power of Commitment is our brand promise. It's what makes us different. We are bound to our stated vision and determination to address humanity's most urgent needs: to make water, energy and urbanisation sustainable for generations to come.

What GHD employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


GHD logo

About GHD

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We are committed to solving the world's biggest challenges in the areas of water, energy and urbanisation. GHD is a global professional services company that is a leader in engineering, construction and architectural expertise. Established in 1928, we remain wholly owned by our people. We are 10,000+ diverse and skilled individuals, yet we are proudly 'One GHD' across more than 200 offices, spanning five continents - Asia, Australia, Europe, North and South America, and the Pacific region. Delivering extraordinary social and economic outcomes, we are passionate about building lasting relationships with our partners and clients.

Industry

Engineering professional services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Waterloo, ON, CA

Social media