Transit Market Leader

What You Will Do

GFT is seeking a Transit Market Sector Leader to join our Transit and Rail Team in any of our GFT locations including Philadelphia PA, New York NY, Boston MA, Washington DC, Chicago IL, and Dallas TX. This role follows a hybrid work model, requiring regular attendance in the office.

Working with the public transit team at GFT means shaping the future of transportation, delivering projects that improve mobility, safety, and accessibility for millions of passengers nationwide. Specializing in rail systems, bus rapid transit, and zero‑emission mobility solutions, our experts combine deep technical knowledge with innovative thinking to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of transit networks. Together, we’re transforming urban landscapes, reducing environmental impact, and connecting communities through state‑of‑the‑art public transportation infrastructure.

This leadership role will define and execute the strategic vision for GFT’s Transit Market Sector—expanding our footprint in Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), Light Rail Transit (LRT), Arterial Rapid Transit (ART), Transit Centers, and emerging mobility technologies—while supporting collaboration across regions, clients, and disciplines.

• Develop and execute a comprehensive market growth strategy for the Transit Sector aligned with GFT’s annual and long‑range business goals.
• Identify and pursue strategic pursuits in key growth markets including Seattle, Northern and Southern California, Utah, Arizona, Nevada, Texas, Mid‑Atlantic and Canada.
• Lead go/no‑go decisions, win strategies, and teaming approaches for major pursuits.
• Partner with marketing and operations leaders to ensure consistent messaging, branding, and market positioning.
• Cultivate and maintain executive‑level relationships with key agency and consultant partners.
• Drive pipeline development through targeted outreach, networking, and industry involvement (APTA, Mpact, AREMA, etc.).
• Support proposal development, interviews, and presentations for high‑value pursuits.
• Provide senior oversight and thought leadership for planning, NEPA, design, and systems integration efforts.
• Mentor project managers in delivery excellence, quality assurance, and FTA compliance.
• Contribute to the development of innovative tools, templates, and best practices for transit project delivery.
• Serve as a subject‑matter expert for multimodal corridor planning, design–build programs, and federal funding programs (Small Starts, CIG, etc.).
• Collaborate with regional leadership to build and strengthen the Transit team, supporting hiring, mentoring, and professional development.
• Promote an inclusive, innovative, and high‑performance culture across GFT’s national network.
• Foster cross‑sector collaboration with Rail, Systems, Planning, and Civil Infrastructure teams.

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Urban Planning, Architecture, or related discipline (Master’s preferred).
• 15+ years of experience in transit planning, design, or program management; consulting experience strongly preferred.
• Proven record of business development and client relationship management within the U.S. transit industry.
• Knowledge of FTA processes, NEPA, and capital project delivery (including design‑build, CM/GC, and Small Starts).
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and strategic thinking skills.
• Professional Engineer (PE) or AICP certification preferred.

The salary range for this role is $250,000 - $365,000
. Salary is dependent upon experience and geographic location.

• Hybrid (in‑person and remote) work environment.
• Comprehensive benefits package including wellness programs, parental leave, and pet insurance, in addition to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance.
• Tax‑deferred 401(k) savings plan.
• Competitive paid‑time‑off (PTO) accrual.
• Tuition reimbursement for continued education.
• Commitment to professional development, access to internal and external training programs, and support of active participation in professional organizations.
• Incentive compensation is being offered for this role.

At GFT, a privately held AEC firm, we innovate where…