Resident Engineer - Municipal

CONSTRUCTION SERVICES PRACTICE

Michael Baker International’s Construction Services staff supports clients by acting as their trusted on-site representative throughout all phases of construction—from pre-construction through close-out—by providing experienced construction managers, resident engineers, inspectors, and technical specialists.

What We’re Looking For

Michael Baker International is seeking a Resident Engineer – Municipal / Local Agency to support construction delivery for municipal infrastructure projects across the Chicago region. This role acts as the owner’s on-site representative for roadway, utility, and drainage projects delivered through IDOT BLRS and locally funded programs. The ideal candidate is delivery-focused, leads field teams, and works directly with municipalities and contractors to drive successful project outcomes. You will manage projects independently, lead client-facing meetings, and ensure high-quality delivery that builds long-term client relationships. The position starts with oversight of a small inspection team and offers opportunities to mentor staff and grow the team.

This is a full-time role with a strong project backlog and a clear path to advancement into Construction Manager-level leadership.

What You’ll Do

• Lead Construction Delivery

• Oversee day-to-day construction activities for municipal infrastructure projects, ensuring compliance with plans, specifications, and contract requirements

• Serve as the primary on-site representative for the client, protecting the owner’s interests throughout construction

• Manage quality, safety, and schedule performance across one or more active projects

• Proactively resolve field issues and coordinate with contractors and stakeholders

• Municipal & IDOT Coordination

• Administer projects in accordance with IDOT BLRS and local agency requirements

• Coordinate with IDOT District 1, municipalities, and funding agencies

• Ensure compliance with federally funded and MFT project requirements

• Contract Administration & Documentation

• Administer construction contracts including pay estimates, change orders, RFIs, and closeout documentation

• Review contractor schedules, shop drawings, and submittals for compliance

• Maintain accurate documentation including daily reports, meeting minutes, and project records

• Client & Contractor Leadership

• Act as the key liaison between municipalities, contractors, utilities, and agencies

• Lead construction meetings and coordinate communications with confidence and independence

• Develop strong working relationships that support repeat municipal work and long-term partnerships

• Team Leadership & Development

• Lead a small team of inspectors, providing direction, oversight, and mentorship

• Support development of junior staff into senior inspectors and future Resident Engineers

• Assist with staffing and team growth as municipal construction workload expands

• Quality, Safety & Risk Management

• Promote a strong safety culture and compliance with project safety requirements

• Identify risks and implement proactive solutions related to construction, cost, and schedule

• Ensure consistent quality control and adherence to contract documents

• What You Need to Succeed:

• Bachelor’s in Civil or Construction Engineering (preferred)

• 10+ years of construction inspection/resident engineering experience, including leadership

• Experience serving as Resident Engineer on municipal and/or IDOT BLRS projects

• Knowledge of federal/MFT-funded project requirements and IDOT procedures

• Experience with IDOT District 1 coordination and municipal clients

• Proficiency with IDOT CMMS (required); eBuilder preferred

• Illinois P.E. preferred

• Ability to meet IDOT documentation and certification requirements within 6 months of hire

Compensation

The approximate compensation range for this position is $111,537 - $165,673. This compensation range is a good-faith estimate for the position at the time of posting. Actual compensation is dependent upon factors such as education, qualifications, experience, skillset, and physical work location.