Railroad Public Projects Manager – Real Estate & Contracts

Benesch is a growing, multi-disciplined planning, engineering, and professional services firm. We enhance infrastructure and communities across the country – creating spaces and providing connections in ways that make a difference.

We pride ourselves on being nimble enough to remain responsive to client needs yet large enough to offer exceptional bench strength. As a member of our team, you’ll have an opportunity to draw from those resources when you need them and, likewise, contribute your expertise when you have something to share.

At Benesch, we are looking for candidates with varied backgrounds and worldviews. We are committed to offering an inclusive work environment where everyone feels valued and respected. Statistics show that women and underrepresented groups are less likely to apply for a position if they don’t meet 100% of the qualifications. If this statement resonates with you, don’t be so hard on yourself—apply for the job!

Benesch is in search of a highly motivated, detail-oriented Real Estate Public Projects Manager to support and manage. This role blends real estate contract management with railroad operations, focusing on compliance, risk mitigation, and project execution.

The ideal candidate will have 3 or more years of experience in real estate or contract management, preferably within the transportation or infrastructure sector. A strong understanding of , public-private partnerships, and applicable federal, state, and local regulations is essential. Proficiency in contract management software and knowledge of railroad operations are highly desirable.

Support Benesch’s Railroad team by managing day-to-day real estate agreements, including public projects and

Draft, review, and process engineering agreements, lease and license agreements, service letters, and supplemental documents

Assist with the development of engineering agreements, supplemental agreements, master agreements and other related documents

Ensure all agreements meet railroad authority requirements and comply with applicable regulations

Coordinate with clients, municipalities, railroads, legal teams, and internal project managers to move agreements forward

Maintain detailed records of all active and historic agreements using systems like and Benesch’s internal platforms

Ensure consistency and accuracy of data across agreements, billing, and internal reporting systems

Prepare and issue standard invoices, follow up on unpaid rents, and ensure billing aligns with contract terms

High school diploma required; Bachelor’s degree in Business, Real Estate, Public Administration, or a related field preferred

3+ years of experience in real estate, public infrastructure, or contract management.

Strong knowledge of real estate documents, public infrastructure agreements, or railroad contracts.

Familiarity with regulations and procedures for public-private transportation projects.

Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.

Highly organized with strong attention to detail and follow-through.

Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite; knowledge of contract management tools is a plus.

Ability to manage multiple projects under tight deadlines.

Map interpretation, document research, and database fluency preferred. #LI- AG1

At Benesch, we prioritize the health and wellness of our employees, understanding that their well-being is crucial for both personal and professional success. We offer a range of benefits for eligible employees, including insurance, retirement plans, and wellness programs. Our Total Rewards package is designed to support a healthy lifestyle and can be customized to meet the needs of our employees and their families. Click here to learn more about some of the benefits of working at Benesch!

Opportunities for management and leadership development at all levels, including executive coaching and leadership development for Team Leaders, Group Managers, Division Managers, and Executive Leaders

Tuition reimbursement for job-related courses

Ongoing professional development through resources like Red Vector, LinkedIn Learning, technical team meetings, and knowledge-sharing training sessions

Personalized training and career development plans with your manager

Funding for training, committee work, professional organization memberships, and licenses/certifications

Support for active participation in professional organizations to foster leadership and community engagement

Flexible work schedules and hours, including work-from-home options (dependent on the role)

Generous Paid Time Benefits (PTB) that increase with your career

Immediate use of annual PTB; no accrual needed, with the ability to bundle time-off plans for extended vacations or life events

Ten days of paid parental leave for birth, adoption, or foster placement

At Benesch, we encourage our team members to extend their impact beyond their core responsibilities. Join our employee resource groups and committees to enhance your work-life balance and contribute to our community-focused initiatives. We support a variety of programs, including community service, student scholarships, and matching gift opportunities, reflecting our commitment to a vibrant and diverse workplace.

If you are based in California, we encourage you to read this important information for California residents linked here .

Benesch is firmly committed to Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and prohibits employment discrimination for employees and applicants in all protected groups, including veterans and individuals with disabilities, or other status protected by federal, state, and local laws.

Benesch shall have no obligation to compensate any external recruiter or search firm for candidate submissions made without a valid, current, and fully executed agreement. Submission of candidate information does not establish entitlement to a fee.

All recruiting activity must be coordinated and authorized through the Benesch Talent Acquisition team. Please direct all communications to [email protected]