Resident Engineer

Resident Engineer

Zephyr Rail is an engineering design and construction management firm based in Orange, CA. We specialize in providing comprehensive solutions in railroad design, construction management, and UAV solutions. We are proud to have earned Zweig Group's recognition as a "Best Firms to Work For" for three consecutive years, demonstrating our commitment to our team and our industry.

Job Summary

As a Resident Engineer, you will serve as the primary on-site leader for Zephyr Rail, overseeing quality, safety, and compliance for complex rail and transportation projects. Your role involves managing all phases of construction from initial constructability reviews to final project completion. You will lead and coordinate a team of inspectors, function as the key liaison between contractors and stakeholders, and ensure all work adheres strictly to plans and specifications. This position is a critical intersection of construction management, on-site supervision, and contract administration, with a focus on the successful delivery of multi-million-dollar transit and transportation projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee daily field activities to verify contractor work meets design intent, contract requirements, and quality standards.
• Direct and coordinate inspection staff to ensure proper coverage of construction disciplines.
• Track and document progress, quantities, and schedule compliance; verify accuracy of contractor pay applications.
• Negotiate settlements for changes and claims.
• Prepare contract change orders.
• Coordinate outside agency support for the contractor's schedule.
• Inspect contractor quality control efforts daily.
• Hold weekly coordination meetings with the contractor.
• Maintain project records, files, and "as-built" data.
• Issue daily and weekly reports for the resident engineer.
• Calculate and document field quantities for payment.
• Enforce the Contractor Safety Program.
• Review construction plans and provide feedback on design packages.
• Coordinate design, permits, and stakeholder agreements with third-party and public-agency representatives.
• Function as the owner's representative, as directed by the project manager or construction manager.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in civil engineering, construction management (or equivalent experience).
• At least 10 years of experience in construction management on transit, rail, or transportation projects worth over $30 million.
• At least 5 years of supervisory experience managing major construction projects.
• California Professional Engineer (P.E.), preferred.
• Proficiency in Bluebeam, MS Project, and Procore (or equivalent project-management software).
• Rail experience (track, systems, or facilities) strongly desired.
• Demonstrated ability to manage CMGC, Design-Build, or Design-Bid-Build delivery methods.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and conflict-resolution skills.
• Valid California driver's license and ability to travel between job sites.
• Authorized to work in the U.S.

Salary Range: $165,000 - $239,000 / annually Benefits Paid Medical, Dental, and Vision, 401(k) Plan (with company match), Paid Time Off (PTO), Paid Holidays, Disability Insurance, Educational Assistance and Licensure Support, Performance-based Bonuses, Service Awards, Flexible/Hybrid Work Arrangements (role-dependent).