Technical Expert - Airports

About the role

Olsson is seeking a highly experienced Technical Expert to join our dedicated Airports team. This team handles a broad spectrum of airport projects, including paving, grading, building design, lighting systems, and fuel infrastructure. As a key member of the team, you will provide expert technical guidance, strategic consultation, and leadership to ensure project excellence and organizational growth. Your role will involve mentoring staff, developing innovative solutions, and representing the firm at industry events. You will be instrumental in maintaining Olsson's reputation for technical excellence within the airport civil engineering sector, supporting both internal teams and external clients through your specialized knowledge and experience.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Act as a subject matter expert in airport civil engineering, offering technical advice and guidance to internal project teams and external clients.
• Mentor and develop staff members, sharing your expertise to elevate the overall technical capabilities of the team.
• Lead or contribute significantly to project planning, design, review, and execution processes to ensure technical accuracy and compliance with industry standards.
• Represent Olsson at industry conferences, seminars, and professional organizations, enhancing the firm's visibility and reputation as a leader in airport civil engineering.
• Develop and deliver technical presentations, papers, and reports that showcase your expertise and contribute to the body of knowledge within the industry.
• Collaborate closely with project managers and other stakeholders to develop strategies that align with current best practices and emerging trends in airport infrastructure.
• Guide the assembly of technical resources, including personnel, tools, and documentation, to ensure project teams are well-equipped to meet project goals.
• Oversee quality control processes, ensuring that all work meets or exceeds project specifications, safety standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Conduct research and analyze data, industry trends, and new technologies relevant to airport civil engineering to inform project design and strategic planning.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of industry initiatives and internal processes, recommending improvements to enhance project delivery and technical standards.
• Build and maintain relationships with clients, industry partners, and stakeholders to foster collaboration, gather feedback, and stay informed of industry developments.
• Represent Olsson in professional organizations and industry governing bodies, contributing to the advancement of airport civil engineering standards and practices.
• Support the implementation and continuous improvement of Olsson's Quality Management Program by potentially serving as a discipline quality leader, ensuring adherence to quality standards across projects.
• Contribute to business development efforts by leveraging your technical expertise to support proposals, presentations, and client interactions.
• Stay current with federal, state, and local regulations affecting airport infrastructure projects, ensuring all work remains compliant.
• Participate in internal training and knowledge-sharing initiatives to promote continuous learning within the organization.
• Assist in developing technical standards, guidelines, and best practices specific to airport projects, ensuring consistency and excellence across all work.
• Engage in problem-solving during project execution, providing innovative solutions to complex technical challenges.
• Support the integration of sustainable and environmentally responsible practices within airport civil engineering projects.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, sciences, construction, planning, landscape architecture, or a related field is preferred. An associate degree with equivalent experience will also be considered.
• A minimum of 12 years of civil engineering experience, specifically with a focus on airport projects.
• Demonstrated expertise in airport civil engineering practices, standards, and regulations.
• Proven ability to lead technical teams and mentor junior staff members.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to clearly articulate complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.
• Experience in project management, including planning, scheduling, and resource allocation.
• Familiarity with industry standards such as FAA regulations, AASHTO guidelines, and other relevant codes.
• Ability to analyze complex data, develop innovative solutions, and implement best practices.
• Experience in representing organizations at professional industry events and conferences.
• Knowledge of quality assurance and quality control processes, with the ability to serve as a discipline quality leader if needed.
• Strong organizational skills, with attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Commitment to safety, regulatory compliance, and ethical standards in all work activities.
• Ability to work collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams and foster a positive work environment.

Nice to have

• Familiarity with Olsson's Quality Management Program and internal standards.
• Experience in engineering consulting business practices and client relations.
• A track record of exceeding client expectations through innovative technical solutions.
• Strong presentation, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in developing technical standards, guidelines, and best practices specific to airport infrastructure.
• Knowledge of sustainable design principles and environmentally responsible practices in civil engineering.

Skills & tools

• Expertise in airport-related civil engineering practices, including paving, grading, lighting, fuel systems, and building design.
• Familiarity with industry standards such as FAA regulations, AASHTO guidelines, and other relevant codes.
• Ability to utilize engineering software and tools relevant to airport civil projects (specific software not listed in source).
• Strong analytical skills for data interpretation and problem-solving.
• Excellent communication skills for technical presentations and stakeholder engagement.

Practical notes

• Olsson offers a competitive 401(k) match and supports career development through tailored growth paths.
• Flexible work arrangements may be available to accommodate personal needs and work-life balance.
• Employees participate in community-impact projects and wellness programs designed to promote a healthy lifestyle.
• Full-time staff benefit from comprehensive healthcare packages, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with paid time off and holiday leave.
• Performance-based bonuses are part of the compensation package, recognizing individual and team contributions.
• The role is based on-site at one of the specified office locations, with on-site responsibilities.
• Olsson is committed to diversity and inclusion, welcoming applications from qualified individuals regardless of background.
• The company adheres to all applicable privacy laws and practices to protect applicants' personal information during the hiring process.
• This position offers an opportunity to work on impactful projects that improve community infrastructure and transportation systems.
• The firm values innovation, technical excellence, and continuous learning, fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment.