Become a Chief Engineer: Leading Infrastructure at the Department of Transportation
Are you a seasoned engineering professional looking to make a significant impact on national infrastructure? The Department of Transportation is currently seeking a highly skilled Supervisory General Engineer (Chief Engineer) to join the Great Lakes Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation. Located in the beautiful community of Massena, New York, this role is critical to maintaining the safety and efficiency of one of the world's most important shipping routes.
Job Responsibilities
As the Chief Engineer, you will:
- Manage the technical direction of large-scale engineering and environmental programs.
- Recommend capital projects for the Seaway Infrastructure Program (SIP).
- Oversee the entire project life cycle from design to completion.
- Supervise and coordinate with engineers, technical staff, and external entities.
Comparison: Qualifications
| Qualification Type | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Education | ABET-accredited Engineering Degree or Equivalent |
| Experience | Min. 1 year at GS-13 level or equivalent |
| Skills | Mechanical, Civil, Structural, and Electrical Engineering |
| Certification | PE or EIT strongly preferred |
Requirements
To be eligible, candidates must be U.S. citizens and meet the specific educational standards for the 0801 series. You must submit your transcripts with your application to verify your academic credentials. Proficiency in both civil and mechanical engineering disciplines is expected, as is the ability to manage complex, multi-disciplinary teams.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive annual salary ranging from $125,776 to $163,514, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
Benefits
- Federal health and life insurance programs.
- Generous retirement planning through the Thrift Savings Plan.
- Structured career progression within the DOT.
- Collaborative professional environment.
Application Tips
Ensure your resume is concise (max 2 pages) and contains specific, quantifiable experience. Clear communication of your technical history is vital, as the hiring team does not make assumptions about your past roles.
This role offers a unique opportunity to lead critical infrastructure projects while enjoying a stable, mission-driven career. If you are an engineering leader ready to serve the public interest, apply today through the official USAJobs portal.
Why This Supervisory General Engineer (Chief Engineer)- Direct Hire Job Matters
Take the helm of critical infrastructure projects in Massena, NY, as the Chief Engineer for the Great Lakes Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation. Lead high-impact engineering programs at the Department of Transportation.
Supervisory General Engineer (Chief Engineer)- Direct Hire Job Overview
The Great Lakes Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation is seeking an experienced, results-driven professional to serve as the Supervisory General Engineer (Chief Engineer). In this pivotal role, you will provide technical leadership for complex engineering and environmental initiatives, ensuring the safety, efficiency, and longevity of vital navigation infrastructure. You will manage capital improvements, oversee technical developments, and coordinate with federal, state, and local entities to maintain the integrity of Seaway facilities.
Requirements for Supervisory General Engineer (Chief Engineer)- Direct Hire
- U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
- Must meet the specific education requirements for the engineering series, including an ABET-accredited degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Minimum of one year of specialized experience at the GS-13 level or equivalent.
- Must submit transcripts for verification of education.
- Must be able to successfully complete a one-year probationary period for both employment and supervisory status.
- Registration with Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959.
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory General Engineer (Chief Engineer)- Direct Hire
- Proven experience in mechanical, civil, structural, and electrical engineering design and review.
- Advanced knowledge of systems engineering throughout a project's life cycle.
- Demonstrated ability to manage budgets, project schedules, and personnel.
- Expertise in communicating technical information to diverse audiences including senior policy representatives.
- Current Professional Engineer (PE) licensure or Engineer in Training (EIT) certification.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure.
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options.
- ✓Federal retirement benefits including the Thrift Savings Plan.
- ✓Opportunities for professional growth within the Department of Transportation.
- ✓Support for a healthy work-life balance with potential telework eligibility.
💡 How to Apply Supervisory General Engineer (Chief Engineer)- Direct Hire Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory General Engineer (Chief Engineer)- Direct Hire Job
- Register and log in to the official USAJobs portal.
- Prepare a resume that specifically highlights your engineering experience, including dates and hours worked (max 2 pages).
- Gather your transcripts and any relevant professional licenses (PE/EIT).
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire linked to the announcement.
- Submit your full application package including all supporting documentation before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly lists the position series and grade level if you have previous federal experience.
- Do not assume the hiring team knows your background; be explicit about your technical achievements.
- Verify that your uploaded documents are attached to the specific application before final submission.
- Apply early; the agency reviews applications on a rolling basis after the initial 30-day window.
- Double-check that your resume does not exceed the two-page limit requested.
Frequently Asked Questions
What engineering disciplines are involved in this role?
This position requires a broad understanding of mechanical, civil/structural, and electrical/electronic engineering concepts to support facility maintenance and capital improvements.
Is a Professional Engineer (PE) license required?
While licensure is a strong indicator of qualification, you may also qualify through an ABET-accredited degree or a combination of education and experience, including passing the FE exam.
How is the application reviewed?
The agency reviews for basic qualification requirements, specifically education. Qualified candidates are referred to the hiring manager for potential interview consideration.
How often are applications reviewed?
Applications are reviewed after the initial 30 days and periodically thereafter.
Is travel involved?
Yes, this position requires official travel.
Job from Great Lakes Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) is dedicated to modernizing aging infrastructure and enhancing the safety of our nation's transportation systems. Working with the Great Lakes Saint Lawrence Seaway, you will be part of a team that values discipline, innovation, and operational excellence. The DOT is consistently ranked as a top place to work in the federal government.