Technical Project Associate Jobs in Elgin, IL (NOW HIRING)

Description

BNP Associates, Inc., a global leader in air transportation consulting and engineering, has an immediate need for a Project Manager in one of our U.S. offices, including Denver, Chicago, Dallas, Tampa, and Fairfield. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to BNP's continued growth and innovation while working with top professionals in the field.

Company Overview

Founded in 1971, BNP Associates, Inc. is a full-service consulting and engineering firm specializing in airport and warehousing infrastructure projects worldwide. Over its 55+ years of operation, BNP has completed thousands of projects, ranging from small terminal projects to the world's largest mechanized material-handling systems.

We are recognized for our leadership in baggage handling systems, checked baggage security screening, aircraft apron systems, air cargo terminals, and construction administration. Our clients include airlines, airports, government agencies, and transportation infrastructure specialists worldwide. BNP serves as a key design partner for complex projects that drive the future of air transportation and logistics.

BNP employs over 220 professionals globally. This position offers an opportunity to contribute to our growth and innovation and work with some of the leading professionals in the field.

Position Summary 

BNP is seeking an experienced Project Manager to join our airport systems consulting team, focused on airfield and apron systems projects, including aircraft gate planning, passenger boarding bridge (PBB) programs, and related apron equipment. This role covers the full project lifecycle, from master planning and concept design through construction administration, installation, and commissioning. 

This role works closely with clients, contractors, and BNP's internal design and engineering teams to keep projects on schedule, on budget, and aligned with FAA/ICAO/IATA standards. BNP provides the tools and training to support this work, including in-house software developed specifically for our niche industry. 

Key Responsibilities 

Client & Project Leadership 

• Serve as the primary point of contact and subject matter expert for clients and contractors throughout the project lifecycle. 
• Maintain project budgets, schedules, and deliverables to ensure timely, cost-effective completion. 
• Review and respond to Requests for Information (RFIs). 
• Collaborate with other Project Managers across BNP to identify the best solutions for clients. 

Design & Technical Coordination 

• Coordinate with Project Designers to develop FAA/ICAO/IATA and user-airline-compliant gate layouts and apron system drawings. 
• Assist in developing specifications for apron equipment such as PBBs, GPUs, PCAs, and related systems. 
• Conduct and analyze system simulations to evaluate the performance of proposed layouts. 
• Coordinate with Designers, Engineers, and Executives to assign staff and develop required reports and documentation. 

On-Site & Field Execution 

• Manage on-site activities as the prime contractor, including surveys, inspections, installations, and equipment testing. 
• Supervise punch list resolution and provide start-up assistance during commissioning. 
• Travel to airport sites and partner offices as needed to support project execution. 

Team Mentorship & Quality 

• Provide feedback to Designers and Project Engineers to ensure the quality and accuracy of reports, specifications, and drawings. 
• Mentor and support Project Engineers and Designers to foster their professional growth. 

Qualifications 

Required 

• Minimum 5 years of project management experience, ideally including airport, infrastructure, or airfield-related projects. 
• Demonstrated experience managing project budgets, schedules, and client relationships on technical projects. 
• Working knowledge of airport/airline industry operations and terminology.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to build strong client and contractor rapport. 
• Experience conducting field surveys, inspections, and equipment testing. 
• Must be based in the United States and legally authorized to work in the United States; employment eligibility will be verified at time of hire. 

Preferred 

• Direct experience with airfield layouts, gate planning, apron systems, or PBB programs is ideal. 
• Candidates with airline, air freight, or airport operations backgrounds are also encouraged to apply, even without direct apron systems experience. 
• Background in mechanical, industrial, or civil engineering; controls/electrical engineers and other backgrounds also encouraged to apply. 
• Familiarity with AutoCAD, AviPlan, and Revit.  BNP trains on our in-house software regardless of prior exposure. 
• Experience with large-scale hub airport projects. 

Skills & Competencies 

• Leadership and team-building experience with large design and development groups. 
• Skilled in handling multiple responsibilities with efficiency and focus. 
• Ability to read, interpret, and develop efficient logistics designs and concepts. 
• Strong data acquisition and compilation skills. 
• Comfortable balancing hands-on field work with client-facing project leadership. 

Working Conditions 

• Based out of any BNP U.S. office (Denver, Chicago, Dallas, Tampa, or Fairfield); remote/hybrid may be considered depending on travel capacity. 
• Approximately 50% travel required to airport sites and partner offices. 
• Candidates must be based in the United States. 
• Must pass criminal background checks and screening to obtain airport security badges. 
• Standard 40-hour work week with occasional additional time required to meet deadlines. 

Salary Range: $90k - $135k  commensurate with experience, skills, and qualifications. 

Benefits

We are an equal opportunity employer. BNP offers an excellent benefits package and competitive salaries, along with professional advancement opportunities. Our benefits include the following:

• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
• 401(K)
• Paid holidays and vacation/personal time
• Annual Salary Reviews
• Annual Bonus Consideration
• Compliance with all US mandatory employer contributions
• Advancement opportunities; we believe in investing in those who want to invest in us

As an equal opportunity employer, we're committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful workplace where everyone feels valued. We comply with all local laws, health and safety guidelines, and client requirements. If you need any accommodations during the hiring process or on the job, just let us know; we're here to help.