Job Description
Transit Project Manager
The Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) is seeking a motivated, collaborative, and results-driven Transit Project Manager to join our Transit Division. This is an incredible opportunity to shape the future of Utah's multimodal infrastructure and lead high-profile passenger rail advancements.
About the Role
This position plays a vital role in delivering the FrontRunner Forward Program, with an immediate focus on the FrontRunner 2X (FR2X) project, and a long-term focus on managing fixed-guideway projects across Northern Utah. The FR2X project will expand double-track rail, a new station in Bluffdale, build new maintenance facilities, and procure new transit sets—significantly strengthening Utah’s transit rail backbone.
The Partnership: UDOT is leading the FR2X effort in close, historic cooperation with the Utah Transit Authority (UTA). UDOT will spearhead design and construction, while UTA will serve as the final owner and operator.
Reporting directly to the FR2X Project Director and working alongside UDOT Executive Leadership, you will help chart the course of action to deliver these landmark projects.
Position Information
Here is some important information about this position:
- Salary Range: $46.67 - $74.06
- FT/PT Status: Full Time
- Background Check: You must successfully pass a criminal history check.
- Schedule Code: B - Competitive Career Service (12 month probationary period)
- Location: Calvin Rampton Building – 4501 South 2700 West, Taylorsville, Utah
- Work Schedule & Travel: Occasional evening or weekend work to meet project demands.
- Recruiter: Jill Barela I jbarela@utah.gov I 385-202-4484
- Application Deadline: 07/21/2026
Key Responsibilities
As a Transit Project Manager, your specific duties will include:
- Lead Stakeholder Integration: Drive seamless coordination between UDOT, the Progressive Design-Builder (PDB), UTA, Maintenance Facility, and Vehicle manufacture to ensure rapid, proactive resolution of preconstruction issues.
- Manage External Partnerships: Coordinate with third-party entities, utilities, municipalities, and community stakeholders to advance program goals and build consensus.
- Contract Development: Assist in developing, negotiating, and implementing the Phase II Construction Contract for the FR2X progressive design-builder, as well as contracts for rolling stock and facility modifications.
- Ensure Compliance: Oversee strict adherence to federal contract requirements, FTA Capital Investment Grant (CIG) standards, and overall project plans.
- Project Controls: Closely monitor budgets, schedules, and risk registers to ensure quality outcomes and on-time delivery.
- Strategic Advisory: Provide critical, data-driven input for successful program delivery and long-term FrontRunner corridor improvements.
- Executive Reporting: Prepare and deliver clear, concise project updates and presentations to executive leadership and oversight boards.
Qualifications
To be considered for this position, candidates must possess:
- Licensure: Registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) in the State of Utah.
- Note: Out-of-state licensees must obtain reciprocity with Utah prior to their official start date.
- Experience: A minimum of two (2) years of professional engineering experience following initial PE licensure.
- Licensing: A valid driver's license.
Preferred Qualifications
Our ideal candidate is someone who possess:
- Direct experience working on federally funded transit or rail projects (FTA/FRA).
- Proven track record coordinating complex projects with local governments, public utilities, and large, diverse stakeholder groups.
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities
In order to be successful, the following are essential:
- Exceptional communication, and organizational skills to bridge gaps between technical teams and executive leadership.
- A proactive, self-starting mindset—equally capable of driving independent tasks and thriving within a highly collaborative, matrixed team environment.
Why You Should Join Our Team
A Mission That Matters – At UDOT, our mission is to “Enhance quality of life through transportation." We help the traveling public get where they want, when they want, as safely as possible. By joining our team, you contribute to the framework of Good Health, Connected Communities, Better Mobility, and a Strong Economy for all of Utah.
Our Culture and Values – We aren't just a state agency; we are a team built on an internal culture of Trust, Teamwork, and Flexibility. We live by the values of Respect, Integrity, and Caring. If these values resonate with you, you will find a home here!
The Agency
For more information on the Utah Department of Transportation, click here
Benefits at a Glance
- Exceptional Health Coverage: We offer some of the most competitive medical premiums in the industry, including comprehensive family plans with very low out-of-pocket costs and HSA options.
- Retirement Choice: Flexibility between a 10% employer-paid 401(k) (no match required) or a Pension/401(k) Hybrid plan.
- Generous Paid Time Off: 12 paid holidays per year plus 8 hours of combined leave (4 annual and 4 sick) accrued each pay period.
- Dental & Vision: Multiple high-quality plan options to fit your needs.
EEO Statement
The State of Utah is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, or Veteran status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. For accommodations, please contact (801) 957-9390.
