1

Highway Project Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Project Manager - Highway

San Jose, CA · On-site

$145K - $175K/yr

Project Management: * Lead and manage the planning, design, and implementation of highway projects from inception to completion. * Develop project schedules, budgets, and resource plans, ensuring ...

Project Manager - Highway

San Jose, CA · On-site

$145K - $175K/yr

Project Management: * Lead and manage the planning, design, and implementation of highway projects from inception to completion. * Develop project schedules, budgets, and resource plans, ensuring ...

Project Manager - Highway

San Jose, CA · On-site

$145K - $175K/yr

Project Management: * Lead and manage the planning, design, and implementation of highway projects from inception to completion. * Develop project schedules, budgets, and resource plans, ensuring ...

Project Manager - Highway

San Jose, CA · On-site

$145K - $175K/yr

Project Management: * Lead and manage the planning, design, and implementation of highway projects from inception to completion. * Develop project schedules, budgets, and resource plans, ensuring ...

Project Manager - Roadway

Riverside, CA · On-site

$140K - $180K/yr

This role will focus on both highway projects adhering to Caltrans standards and municipal roadway ... The ideal candidate will demonstrate technical expertise, project management skills, and the ...

Project Manager - Roadway

Orange, CA · On-site

$140K - $180K/yr

This role will focus on both highway projects adhering to Caltrans standards and municipal roadway ... The ideal candidate will demonstrate technical expertise, project management skills, and the ...

Project Manager - Roadway

Orange, CA · On-site

$140K - $180K/yr

This role will focus on both highway projects adhering to Caltrans standards and municipal roadway ... The ideal candidate will demonstrate technical expertise, project management skills, and the ...

Project Manager - Roadway

Riverside, CA · On-site

$140K - $180K/yr

This role will focus on both highway projects adhering to Caltrans standards and municipal roadway ... The ideal candidate will demonstrate technical expertise, project management skills, and the ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Highway Project Manager information

See California salary details

$43.9K

$103.5K

$171.2K

How much do highway project manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for highway project manager in California is $103,519.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,600.00 and $122,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the role of a highway project manager in road construction?

A highway project manager oversees the planning, coordination, and execution of road construction projects, ensuring they meet design specifications, safety standards, and deadlines. They manage budgets, supervise construction teams, and coordinate with engineers, contractors, and government agencies throughout the project lifecycle.

What does a highway project manager do?

A Highway Project Manager oversees the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of highway projects. They coordinate with engineers, contractors, government agencies, and stakeholders to ensure projects are completed on time, within budget, and according to safety and quality standards. Their responsibilities include managing project schedules, supervising teams, handling contracts, and resolving any issues that arise during the project lifecycle. Effective communication and strong organizational skills are essential for success in this role.

Is a highway project manager in high demand?

Highway project managers are in high demand due to ongoing infrastructure development and maintenance projects. They are typically required to have strong project management skills, relevant certifications, and experience with construction tools and regulations, making their role essential in transportation and civil engineering sectors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a highway project manager?

A Highway Project Manager needs expertise in civil engineering, project management principles, and a relevant degree or professional engineering license. Familiarity with project management software (such as MS Project or Primavera), CAD tools, and safety regulations is typically required. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help coordinate teams and manage stakeholder expectations. These skills ensure projects are completed safely, on time, within budget, and in compliance with regulatory standards.

What are some common challenges faced by highway project managers during large-scale infrastructure projects?

Highway Project Managers often encounter challenges such as coordinating between multiple stakeholders, managing tight project timelines, and addressing unexpected site conditions or regulatory changes. They must balance budget constraints while ensuring safety and quality standards are met. Effective communication with contractors, engineers, government officials, and the public is essential to resolve issues quickly and keep the project on track. Adaptability and proactive problem-solving are key in overcoming these hurdles.

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

AspectHighway Project ManagerCivil Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Civil Engineering or related, PMP certification often preferredBachelor's in Civil Engineering, PE license often required
Work EnvironmentOversees highway construction projects, manages teams, coordinates with contractorsDesigns, plans, and analyzes infrastructure projects, including highways
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction firms, government agencies, transportation departmentsEngineering consulting firms, government agencies, construction companies

While both roles require civil engineering knowledge and similar credentials, the Highway Project Manager focuses on overseeing and managing highway construction projects, ensuring timely completion and budget adherence. Civil Engineers primarily design and plan infrastructure projects, including highways, often working in the planning and design phases before project management takes over.

What cities in California are hiring for Highway Project Manager jobs? Cities in California with the most Highway Project Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Highway Project Manager job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,519 per year, or $49.8 per hour.

Project Manager - Highway

Kimley-Horn

San Jose, CA • On-site

$145K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 6 days ago


Kimley-Horn rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

54th of 446 rated engineering


Job description

Kimley-Horn's San Jose, California (CA) office is seeking a Project Manager with 8+ years of experience to join their Roadway team! This is not a remote position.


We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Roadway Project Manager to lead and oversee highway projects. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in roadway design and project management, with a proven track record of delivering successful highwayl transportation projects. This role requires excellent leadership, communication, and technical skills.

Key Responsibilities:

    1. Project Management:

      • Lead and manage the planning, design, and implementation of highway projects from inception to completion.
      • Develop project schedules, budgets, and resource plans, ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget.
    2. Technical Leadership:

      • Provide technical expertise and guidance on roadway design, including geometric design, pavement design, drainage, and traffic control plans.
      • Utilize advanced design software (e.g., AutoCAD Civil 3D) to develop detailed engineering plans and specifications.
    3. Client Engagement:

      • Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, maintaining strong relationships and ensuring exceptional client service.
      • Communicate project progress, address client concerns, and provide regular updates to stakeholders.
    4. Team Coordination:

      • Coordinate and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including engineers, planners, CAD designers, and construction inspectors.
      • Mentor and support junior staff, fostering a collaborative and learning-oriented work environment.
    5. Regulatory Compliance:

      • Ensure all projects comply with local, state, and federal regulations, as well as industry standards and best practices.
      • Prepare and submit required documentation for regulatory approvals and permits.
    6. Quality Assurance:

      • Conduct quality control reviews of design plans and documents to ensure accuracy and adherence to project requirements.
      • Implement quality assurance processes to maintain high standards of project delivery.

  • 8+ years of relevant experience in roadway design and project management, with a focus on highway projects.
  • California Professional Engineering (P.E.) License required.
  • Proficiency in using industry-standard design software such as Microstation, Open Roads, AutoCAD, and Civil 3D
  • Strong understanding of civil engineering principles, roadway design standards, and traffic engineering principles
  • Demonstrated ability to analyze complex engineering problems and develop effective solutions
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present technical information clearly and concisely
  • A collaborative and adaptable approach to work, with the ability to work effectively as part of a team
  • Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while meeting deadlines
  • Commitment to staying updated on industry trends, regulations, and advancements in roadway engineering

Salary Range

$145,000 - $175,000


At Kimley-Horn, we do things differently. People, clients, and employees are at the forefront of who we are. Clients know we prioritize achieving their goals and growing their success. Employees know our culture and approach to business are built on a desire to provide an environment for everyone to flourish. Our commitment to quality is only as good as the people behind it— that’s why we welcome and develop passionate, hardworking, and proactive employees. We take pride in how our employee retention, robust benefits package, and company values have led to Kimley-Horn’s placement on the Fortune “100 Best Companies to Work” list for 19 years!

Key Benefits at Kimley-Horn

  • Exceptional Retirement Plan: 2-to1- company match on up to 4% of eligible compensation (salary + bonus) and additional profit-sharing contribution.
  • Comprehensive Health Coverage: Low-cost medical, dental, and vision insurance options.
  • Time Off: Personal leave, flexible scheduling, floating holidays, and half-day Fridays.
  • Financial Wellness: Student loan matching in our 401(k), and performance-based bonuses.
  • Professional Development: Tuition reimbursement and extensive internal training programs.
  • Family-Friendly Benefits: New Parent Leave, family building benefits, and childcare resources.

What Kimley-Horn employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Kimley-Horn logo

About Kimley-Horn

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We are a full-service consulting firm that provides a wide range of infrastructure and land development planning and engineering services to both public and private clients. Though we have more than 6,000 employees in 100+ offices, we pride ourselves on our small company feel. At Kimley-Horn, we do things differently. People--clients and employees--are at the forefront of our business. Clients know we are laser-focused on their success. Employees know our culture and approach to business are built on a desire to see our staff flourish, one and all. Both groups know that with Kimley-Horn, they can expect more and experience better.

Industry

Specialized design services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Raleigh, NC, US

Year founded

1967