Lead Infrastructure Innovation: Supervisory Civil Engineer at the FHWA
Are you a seasoned engineering professional looking to make a lasting impact on America's transportation infrastructure? The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), an agency within the U.S. Department of Transportation, is searching for a dynamic Supervisory Civil Engineer (Highway) to join our team in Sevierville, Tennessee. This role is a unique opportunity to provide leadership, technical oversight, and project management for critical highway and bridge construction initiatives on federal lands.
About the Federal Highway Administration
The FHWA is dedicated to ensuring that America's road and bridge systems are safe, efficient, and built for the future. By joining the Federal Lands Highway (FLH) Division, you will be part of a mission-driven organization that prioritizes the modernization of aging infrastructure and the implementation of transformative technologies. Our team is consistently ranked as one of the best places to work in the federal government, fostering a culture of accountability, urgency, and excellence.
Job Responsibilities
As the Construction Operations Engineer (COE), your primary objective is to lead a team of engineers and technicians in the administration of high-stakes construction projects. Key duties include:
- Project Oversight: Managing preliminary design, specifications, and estimates for constructability.
- Leadership: Supervising staff and mentoring junior engineers through all phases of highway construction.
- Contract Administration: Serving as the lead official for change orders, directives, and supplemental agreements.
- Stakeholder Management: Coordinating with National Parks, the U.S. Forest Service, and state agencies to ensure projects align with federal standards and operational goals.
Requirements and Qualifications
To be successful in this role, you must bring a combination of deep technical knowledge and leadership experience.
| Requirement Type | Criteria |
|---|---|
| Education | Bachelor's degree in Engineering (ABET-accredited) or equivalent |
| Experience | 1+ year at the GS-12 equivalent level in construction management |
| Certification | Eligible for/or holding a PE license (highly preferred) |
| Suitability | Must pass a background security investigation |
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive salary range of $106,437 to $138,370 per year. Beyond the base salary, federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package, including comprehensive health insurance, federal retirement contributions (FERS), paid annual leave, and access to professional development opportunities.
Application Tips for Success
- Keep it Concise: Your resume is strictly limited to two pages. Focus on your most relevant achievements as a project engineer.
- Quantify Results: When describing your work as a Contracting Officer's Representative (COR), use data to show your impact on project timelines and budgets.
- Submit Early: Don't wait until the closing date. Ensure all transcripts and certifications are attached correctly to your USAJobs profile.
If you are ready to apply your civil engineering expertise to projects that protect and enhance our nation's natural treasures, we encourage you to apply. This role offers the perfect blend of technical rigor and management leadership, setting the stage for a rewarding career within the U.S. Department of Transportation.
Why This Supervisory Civil Engineer (Highway) (Coe) Job Matters
Lead critical infrastructure projects that span America's breathtaking federal landscapes as a Construction Operations Engineer.
Supervisory Civil Engineer (Highway) (Coe) Job Overview
The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) is seeking a dedicated Supervisory Civil Engineer (Highway) to join the Federal Lands Highway (FLH) Division. Based in the scenic Sevierville, Tennessee area, this leadership role is essential for managing construction and bridge contracts across federal lands, including National Parks and forests. You will supervise engineering staff, oversee complex contract administration, and serve as a vital link between federal stakeholders to ensure the delivery of high-quality, safe, and efficient infrastructure projects.
Requirements for Supervisory Civil Engineer (Highway) (Coe)
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Must meet specialized experience requirements equivalent to the GS-12 level.
- Possession of a qualifying bachelor's degree in Engineering or a combination of education and experience.
- Must pass a background security investigation.
- Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered for the Selective Service.
- Must be able to obtain FAC-C (Professional) certification within three years.
- Completion of a 1-year probationary period and a 1-year supervisory probationary period.
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Civil Engineer (Highway) (Coe)
- Demonstrated experience as a project engineer or Contracting Officer's Representative (COR) for highway/bridge construction.
- Proven history of supervising or leading professional engineering and technical staff.
- Strong ability to resolve complex stakeholder issues regarding infrastructure development.
- Current Professional Engineer (PE) license or successful completion of the FE exam.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance options.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Generous leave policies, including vacation and sick time.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
- ✓Telework eligibility.
- ✓Life insurance coverage options.
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Civil Engineer (Highway) (Coe) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Civil Engineer (Highway) (Coe) Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement details carefully.
- Prepare a resume that specifically highlights your highway construction project experience (maximum 2 pages).
- Gather and upload all required transcripts, professional licenses, or FE/EIT certificates.
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire via the USAJobs portal.
- Submit your full application package before the 11:59 PM EST closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes start and end dates for all roles and specifies full-time or part-time hours.
- Be precise in documenting your experience as a Contracting Officer's Representative (COR).
- Double-check that all required documents are successfully attached to your profile before hitting submit.
- Address the KSAs clearly within your work history narrative.
- Contact the DOT Automated Staffing Office early if you encounter technical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for telework?
Yes, this position is eligible for telework, though it requires onsite leadership and oversight for active construction projects.
What is the maximum length allowed for the resume?
Per current OPM merit hiring guidance, your resume must be no longer than two pages to be considered.
Do I need an engineering degree?
Yes, you must hold a bachelor's degree in engineering from an ABET-accredited program or demonstrate a combination of equivalent education and experience.
What is the probation period?
New hires typically undergo a one-year probationary period, with a separate one-year requirement for new supervisors.
Is relocation assistance provided?
Yes, relocation benefits are available for qualified candidates.