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Rail Project Manager Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

HBK Engineering, LLC

Project Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$85K/yr

Drive permitting through DOT, municipal, and railroad authorities; track approval cycle times and ... Support training of project coordinators in project management best practices * Travel as needed ...

EMCOR Group, Inc.

Project Manager

Lyons, IL · On-site

$100 - $160/hr

... railroad lighting systems. Job Summary The Project Manager position is a critical role for the ... company. This individual will be responsible for planning, directing, or coordinating activities ...

Lyons Electric Company

Project Manager

La Grange, IL · On-site

$100 - $160/hr

... railroad lighting systems. Job Summary The Project Manager position is a critical role for the ... company. This individual will be responsible for planning, directing, or coordinating activities ...

Lyons Electric Company

Project Manager

La Grange, IL · On-site

... railroad lighting systems. Job Summary The Project Manager position is a critical role for the ... company. This individual will be responsible for planning, directing, or coordinating activities ...

HBK Engineering, LLC

Project Manager

Chicago, IL

Drive permitting through DOT, municipal, and railroad authorities; track approval cycle times and ... Support training of project coordinators in project management best practices * Travel as needed ...

MTH Industries

Steel Project Manager

Hillside, IL · On-site

... railings, platforms, and structural supports . Key Responsibilities * Project Scheduling: Develop and manage project timelines, ensuring key deliverables are met and milestones achieved. * Safety ...

MTH Industries, Inc.

Steel Project Manager

Hillside, IL · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

... railings, platforms, and structural supports . Key Responsibilities * Project Scheduling: Develop and manage project timelines, ensuring key deliverables are met and milestones achieved. * Safety ...

MTH Industries

Steel Project Manager

Hillside, IL · On-site

$90K/yr

... railings, platforms, and structural supports . Key Responsibilities * Project Scheduling: Develop and manage project timelines, ensuring key deliverables are met and milestones achieved. * Safety ...

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Rail Project Manager information

See Illinois salary details

$91.6K

$101.7K

$110K

How much do rail project manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for rail project manager in Illinois is $101,747.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,900.00 and $106,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a rail project manager do?

A Rail Project Manager oversees the planning, execution, and completion of rail infrastructure projects, such as the construction or upgrading of railway lines and stations. They coordinate between engineers, contractors, government agencies, and stakeholders to ensure that projects are delivered on time, within budget, and according to safety and quality standards. Their responsibilities include managing project schedules, budgets, risk assessments, and compliance with regulatory requirements. Additionally, they often handle communication among different teams to keep all parties informed and resolve any issues that arise during the project lifecycle.

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

To thrive as a Rail Project Manager, you need expertise in project management, rail engineering principles, and a relevant degree such as civil engineering or construction management. Familiarity with project management software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera P6), rail safety standards, and certifications like PMP or PRINCE2 are typically required. Strong leadership, effective communication, and stakeholder management skills help navigate complex projects and multidisciplinary teams. These abilities ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and in compliance with regulatory and safety standards.

What are some common challenges faced by rail project managers during large infrastructure projects?

Rail Project Managers often encounter challenges such as coordinating multiple stakeholders, managing complex schedules, and ensuring compliance with strict safety and regulatory standards. Delays due to unforeseen site conditions, supply chain disruptions, or changes in project scope are also common. Successful Rail Project Managers proactively communicate with engineering teams, contractors, and government agencies to address issues and keep projects on track, while balancing quality, budget, and timeline requirements.

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

AspectRail Project ManagerCivil Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, PMP or equivalent certification often preferredBachelor's in Civil Engineering, PE license often required
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, project offices, rail infrastructure projectsConstruction sites, design offices, infrastructure projects
Employer & Industry UsageRail companies, transportation agencies, infrastructure firmsEngineering firms, construction companies, government agencies

While both roles involve infrastructure projects, a Rail Project Manager oversees the planning, execution, and completion of rail-specific projects, focusing on project management and coordination. A Civil Engineer designs and analyzes infrastructure components, often working on the technical aspects. The Rail Project Manager typically has project management certifications, whereas Civil Engineers focus on engineering licensure. Both roles are essential in rail infrastructure development but differ in scope and responsibilities.

How do you become a rail project manager?

To become a rail project manager, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in engineering, construction management, or a related field, along with several years of experience in project management or railway construction. Certifications such as PMP (Project Management Professional) can enhance prospects, and strong skills in planning, budgeting, and team coordination are essential. Familiarity with railway systems and safety regulations is also important.

What is the salary of a rail project manager?

The salary of a rail project manager typically ranges from $80,000 to $130,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects managed. Senior roles or those in high-cost areas may offer higher compensation, and certifications like PMP can influence earning potential.

What are popular job titles related to Rail Project Manager jobs in Illinois?

For Rail Project Manager jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Rail Project Manager jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Rail Project Manager jobs in Illinois are:

Rail Project Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Project Manager job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,747 per year, or $48.9 per hour.

Project Manager

HBK Engineering, LLC

Chicago, IL • On-site

$85K/yr

Other

Re-posted 4 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Lead project teams through design, modification, analysis, and constructability of utility systems.

  • Oversee the design, permitting, and approval processes for fiber optic and utility infrastructure projects.

  • Manage project financials, including proposals, contracts, budgets, and client communications.

Job description

About Us
HBK Engineering, LLC is a fully licensed, professional engineering design firm headquartered in Chicago, IL with a staff approaching 700 individuals. HBK provides civil, environmental, structural, electrical, subsurface utility, construction support services and permitting facilitation. Since our founding in 1998, we have earned a reputation for delivering outstanding, accurate services in extremely time-sensitive, multilayered environments. That "industry-recognized" performance has propelled our expansion and the ability to provide engineering services in all 50 states. With 25 offices nationwide, including concentrations in the Midwest and on the Coasts, HBK brings together a dedicated team whose main focus is the design and protection of utilities and utility networks. We have successfully performed engineering work for a complete spectrum of utility infrastructure projects providing solutions and construction support from Coast to Coast in areas ranging from complex urban city centers, to rural greenfields, to limited access rights-of-way. In July 2020, HBK Engineering was acquired by Quanta Services. Quanta Services provides infrastructure services for electric power, pipeline, and communications industries and employees over 50,000 people. Quanta's focus on the utility industry and HBK's focus on constructability in our designs has made our integration into the Quanta family of companies seamless.
About this Role
HBK Engineering is seeking a Project Manager with telecommunications industry experience fiber to the home (FTTH) projects preferred to lead outside plant engineering and design delivery for utility clients. This role owns engineering delivery from route planning and OSP design through permitting, and is accountable for schedule, budget, quality, and the client relationship on assigned projects. Working Locations: Iowa; Chicago, IL; Philadelphia, PA; Atlanta, GA
What You'll Do
Project Leadership
  • Lead project teams consisting of engineers, designers, and field personnel through design, modification, analysis, and constructability of new and existing utility systems
  • Act as team lead in coordination of detailed design phases for all aspects of utility engineering work
  • Lead efforts to ensure projects are completed satisfactorily, on time, and within budget
  • Work on challenging assignments including investigating, troubleshooting, and resolving engineering and construction-related issues
  • Adhere to safety initiatives as needed by the organization
Fiber / OSP Engineering Delivery
  • Direct design teams producing underground and aerial OSP construction prints, splice diagrams, fiber assignments, and bills of material
  • Oversee underground route design including directional boring, trenching, conduit and vault placement, potholing, and restoration requirements
  • Coordinate with GIS/mapping teams on route data and design platform workflows (3-GIS, VETRO, IQGeo, or similar)
  • Coordinate design activities to ensure installation and operations comply with specifications, codes, and client requirements
  • Coordinate utility design and relocation efforts on behalf of utility infrastructure owners
  • Perform independent reviews of work performed by project teams for quality assurance
Permitting
  • Drive permitting through DOT, municipal, and railroad authorities; track approval cycle times and escalate aging submittals
  • Manage right-of-way, easement, and street opening/excavation permits; coordinate utility locates and traffic control requirements
  • Manage pole attachment applications and joint use coordination with electric and telecom pole owners as project needs require
Financial and Contract Management
  • Support the preparation and review of proposals, contracts, and cost estimates
  • Create proposals in coordinated effort with project team leadership, contractors, and other key team members
  • Assist in negotiating revisions, changes, and additions to contractual agreements with sub-consultants and clients
  • Complete project financial accruals and forecasts with guidance from project team leadership
  • Control expenditures to meet budget allocations and financial targets
  • Identify project/program budget, forecast, and authorization concerns early and escalate or develop resolutions to meet required project metrics
  • Monitor program financial risks and opportunities; support analysis of variances to budget, quarterly plan, and month-over-month variance analysis
Client and Team Development
  • Act as day-to-day client point of contact; run status meetings and issue weekly and monthly progress reporting
  • Prepare reports and studies that present technical information clearly and concisely to meet client requirements
  • Support the development and mentoring of resources within the organization
  • Mentor designers and project coordinators; support QA/QC and training on client-specific standards
  • Support training of project coordinators in project management best practices
  • Travel as needed for project requirements and client meetings

What You'll Bring
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited program
  • 5+ years of relevant project experience
  • Experience in the telecommunication industry required; fiber to the home (FTTH) project experience preferred
  • Working knowledge of underground fiber construction methods, including directional boring, trenching, conduit and vault placement, and surface restoration
  • Familiarity with aerial construction methods, with willingness to develop pole attachment and make-ready expertise as project needs evolve
  • Utility design and/or coordination experience
  • Experience supporting an engineering design team through all phases of project design
  • Familiarity with area agencies, municipalities, and governing jurisdictions
  • Exposure to contract negotiation and management
  • Financial management and budget control capabilities
  • Leadership and team skills, including experience mentoring junior staff
  • Problem-solving and troubleshooting expertise
  • Strong written and verbal communication abilities
  • Ability to work effectively in a team environment
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and project management software

What You'll Get
  • Strategic client relationship building and maintenance responsibilities at the highest organizational level
  • Authority in preparing, reviewing, and approving proposals, contracts, and cost estimates with executive decision-making power
  • Professional development in contract negotiation and client relationship management at executive levels
  • Leadership opportunities in managing, developing, mentoring, and evaluating organizational resources and direct reports
  • Advanced responsibility for program financial management and metrics oversight across multiple initiatives
  • Safety leadership responsibilities with organizational impact and executive authority
  • Client interface responsibilities at executive level for program updates and strategic recommendations
  • Advanced training in time and expense software for comprehensive program management
  • Executive oversight of project managers and their teams with comprehensive leadership responsibility
  • Clear executive career progression pathway within the HBK Organization's senior leadership
  • Professional certification support for CAPM/PMP credentials
  • Comprehensive benefits package
  • Executive-level career advancement opportunities within HBK Organization senior leadership

Compensation Range
The anticipated compensation for this position is USD $85,000.00/Yr. - USD $120,000.00/Yr. depending on experience and qualifications.
Equal Opportunity Employer
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex (including gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity), age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, and/or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.
We prohibit all types of discrimination and are committed to providing access and equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities. For additional information or if reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application, interview, or hiring processes or to perform the essential functions of a position, please contact us the Company's Human Resources department.

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