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Highway Project Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

InEight/Hard Dollar Caltrans / Highway / Bridge Experience: Major Plus About the Company We are a ... Build and manage complete bids end-to-end in InEight Estimate (formerly Hard Dollar), leveraging ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Project Manager

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$150K - $220K/yr

Project Manager - Heavy Civil / Highway / Structures Anaheim, CA | $160,000-$220,000 + full benefits We're looking for a Project Manager who wants to lead complex infrastructure projects with a team ...

Showing results 21-40

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 - Roadway

Kimley-Horn

Orange, CA • On-site

$140K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 15 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

Overview

Kimley-Horn is seeking an experienced and dynamic Roadway Project Manager to join our talented team in Orange, CA to design and manage transportation infrastructure projects. This role will focus on both highway projects adhering to Caltrans standards and municipal roadway improvements involving local municipalities and public agencies. The ideal candidate will demonstrate technical expertise, project management skills, and the ability to foster relationships with internal and external stakeholders, ensuring exceptional client service and project delivery. This is not a remote position. 

Responsibilities
  • Collaborate with the design team to develop detailed and efficient roadway designs that comply with Caltrans standards, municipal regulations, industry guidelines, and specific project specifications.
  • Lead the development of project plans, feasibility studies, cost estimates, and scheduling for roadway infrastructure projects, including both highway and municipal roadways.
  • Oversee the selection of appropriate materials and preparation of engineering specifications for road construction and maintenance projects.
  • Design roadway alignments and geometric layouts for roads, intersections, and transportation facilities, prioritizing safety, accessibility, and environmental considerations.
  • Obtain necessary permits and approvals from relevant local, state, and federal authorities to ensure regulatory compliance.
  • Provide technical support during construction phases, including reviewing plans, resolving design issues, and monitoring progress to ensure adherence to project timelines and budgets.
  • Conduct inspections and quality control reviews to ensure design standards and specifications are met during implementation.
  • Integrate environmental considerations into roadway designs, including stormwater management and mitigation of environmental impacts.
  • Effectively monitor and manage project schedules, budgets, and progress while ensuring sustained profitability for the firm.
  • Build and maintain relationships with various industry professionals, jurisdictions, contractors, and community stakeholders, ensuring seamless collaboration and exceptional client service.
Qualifications
  • Professional Engineer (PE) licensure required.
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or a closely related field.
  • 10+ years of relevant experience in roadway design and project management, with demonstrated expertise in both Caltrans highway standards and municipal roadway projects.
  • Proficiency in AutoCAD Civil 3D and MicroStation software preferred.
  • Strong understanding of local, state, and federal regulations pertaining to roadway projects.
  • Exceptional communication, leadership, and organizational skills, with the ability to work collaboratively across teams and disciplines.
  • Proven ability to meet project budgets and deadlines while delivering outstanding client service.

Salary Range:

$140,000 to $180,000

Why Kimley-Horn?

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.
Education:Bachelor's DegreeEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

What Kimley-Horn employees say

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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