Lead Civil Engineer: Build the Future with the FHWA
Infrastructure is the backbone of the American economy. If you are a seasoned engineer looking to transition from project-level work to high-level strategic leadership, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has a unique opportunity for you. We are seeking a Lead Civil Engineer to guide transportation excellence in Bismarck, North Dakota.
Job Responsibilities
As a Lead Civil Engineer, you will serve as a cornerstone of our division’s leadership team. Key responsibilities include:
- Overseeing the lifecycle of highway and bridge projects.
- Interpreting federal laws and regulations for state partners.
- Utilizing Risk-based Stewardship and Oversight (RBSO) principles.
- Mentoring engineering staff and fostering a collaborative environment.
Comparison: Typical Engineering vs. Lead Civil Engineer (FHWA)
| Feature | Standard Engineer | Lead Civil Engineer (FHWA) |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Project-Specific | Statewide Programmatic |
| Primary Focus | Technical Design | Oversight & Compliance |
| Interaction | Internal Teams | State DOTs & Stakeholders |
| Goal | Task Completion | Strategic Infrastructure Delivery |
Requirements
Applicants must possess a bachelor’s degree in engineering or equivalent technical experience, along with one year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level. You must provide transcripts and proof of licensure, such as a Professional Engineer (PE) certificate, where applicable.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $106,437 to $138,370 per year, commensurate with experience and federal pay grade standards.
Benefits
The federal government provides an unparalleled benefits package, including robust healthcare plans, generous retirement contributions via the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), and a strong work-life balance focus through leave policies and potential telework options.
Application Tips
Submit a targeted, two-page resume. Ensure every role listed clearly indicates the time period and whether the work was full-time or part-time. Don't wait until the final deadline; early applications may receive priority review.
Join a team where your engineering skills directly influence national infrastructure policy. Apply today to help shape the future of North Dakota’s transportation network.
Why This Lead Civil Engineer - Direct Hire Sme Job Matters
Join the Federal Highway Administration in Bismarck and lead the future of American transportation infrastructure.
Lead Civil Engineer - Direct Hire Sme Job Overview
The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) is seeking a visionary Lead Civil Engineer to serve as a pivotal team leader in Bismarck, North Dakota. This role is central to administering the Federal-aid Highway Program, overseeing the lifecycle of critical infrastructure projects from initial design and environmental planning to construction. As a representative of the agency, you will work closely with state partners and stakeholders to ensure the delivery of high-quality transportation systems that serve the American public.
Requirements for Lead Civil Engineer - Direct Hire Sme
- U.S. citizenship is mandatory.
- Must possess a bachelor's degree in engineering from an ABET-accredited program or meet equivalent rigorous course requirements in physics and mathematics.
- Minimum of one year of specialized experience at a level equivalent to the GS-12 grade.
- Must successfully complete a one-year probationary period.
- Ability to travel for official business as required.
- Must be registered for Selective Service (if applicable).
- Submission of a resume (maximum of 2 pages) and academic transcripts by the closing date.
Preferred Qualifications for Lead Civil Engineer - Direct Hire Sme
- Professional Engineer (PE) license.
- Experience managing statewide or large-scale federally funded highway programs.
- Expertise in Risk-based Stewardship and Oversight (RBSO) principles.
- Demonstrated ability to influence and lead cross-functional project teams.
- Proven track record in conflict resolution and stakeholder engagement.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Competitive federal salary structure.
- âś“Comprehensive health insurance options.
- âś“Federal retirement benefits including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- âś“Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- âś“Potential for telework opportunities.
- âś“Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
đź’ˇ How to Apply Lead Civil Engineer - Direct Hire Sme Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Lead Civil Engineer - Direct Hire Sme Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement on the official portal.
- Prepare a concise, two-page resume highlighting your specialized engineering experience and professional milestones.
- Gather and scan all required academic transcripts and professional licensure documentation.
- Create or update your profile on the application portal.
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire and upload all supporting documentation.
- Verify that your documents have been successfully attached before final submission.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to the two-page limit as per OPM guidance.
- Clearly outline your engineering experience with specific dates and hours worked per week.
- Ensure your transcripts are legible and clearly show your degree and coursework.
- Apply early; the agency may review applications starting 15 days after the opening date.
- Verify your document status on your dashboard to ensure no uploads were missed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
This position requires the candidate to be based in Bismarck, North Dakota, though it may offer telework eligibility depending on agency policy.
What if my engineering degree is not from an ABET-accredited school?
You may still qualify if your education meets specific requirements in calculus and various engineering sciences, or through a combination of education and professional experience/licensure.
Job from Federal Highway Administration
The Department of Transportation (DOT) and the FHWA are committed to modernizing America’s infrastructure. We focus on safety, innovation, and efficiency. Working here means contributing to a 'Golden Age of Transportation' where your technical expertise impacts the daily lives of millions of travelers.