Lead the Future of Transportation: Program Manager (Division Administrator) at FHWA
Are you a seasoned leader with a passion for infrastructure? The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) is searching for a high-level Program Manager to serve as our Division Administrator in Indianapolis, Indiana. This is a critical leadership role that directly impacts the safety, efficiency, and modernization of our nation's surface transportation networks. As we enter a "Golden Age of Transportation," the FHWA is looking for mission-driven professionals ready to deliver results.
Job Responsibilities
As the Division Administrator, you serve as the principal representative of the FHWA within the state. Your primary duties include:
- Administering the total Federal-aid Highway Program at the state level.
- Providing leadership to state and local officials regarding surface transportation priorities.
- Establishing division-wide objectives, priorities, and project timetables.
- Committing federal funds while ensuring strict compliance with federal and state laws.
- Directing oversight initiatives and annual risk assessments to ensure fiscal accountability.
Requirements
To qualify for this GS-15 position, you must:
- Possess at least one year of specialized experience at the GS-14 grade level or equivalent.
- Meet all qualification standards by the announcement closing date.
- Successfully complete a one-year probationary period.
- Undergo a comprehensive background security investigation.
- Register for Selective Service if you are a male born after 12/31/1959.
Comparison Table: Qualifications and Expectations
| Criteria | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Grade Level | GS-15 |
| Experience Requirement | 1 Year at GS-14 level |
| Travel | Yes (Government Travel Card required) |
| Security Clearance | High Risk (HR) Suitability/Fitness |
| Resume Limit | 2 Pages Max |
Salary Overview
The salary range for this position is $149,323 to $194,122 per year. This competitive compensation package reflects the high-level responsibilities and leadership nature of the role.
Benefits
Employees of the Federal Highway Administration enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive health and life insurance plans.
- Federal retirement system contributions.
- Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- Flexibility in work arrangements, including telework eligibility.
- Professional growth and leadership training opportunities.
Application Tips
- Respect the Page Limit: The two-page resume limit is strictly enforced. Ensure every word counts.
- Quantify Your Impact: Use specific metrics and outcomes in your experience description.
- Use the Correct Formatting: Include employment dates, hours worked, and federal series/grade for every entry.
- Verify Uploads: Never assume a document is attached. Double-check your submission before clicking final submit.
This role offers a unique opportunity to lead infrastructure development in Indianapolis and contribute to the national transportation mission. If you are an experienced leader ready for the next step in your career, we encourage you to review the requirements and submit your application before the closing date.
[Apply today to help us build a better transportation future!]
Why This Program Manager (Division Administrator) Job Matters
Shape the future of America’s transportation infrastructure as a high-level leader within the Federal Highway Administration. Lead critical operations in Indianapolis and drive transformative projects that serve the nation.
Program Manager (Division Administrator) Job Overview
The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) is seeking a visionary leader to serve as the Division Administrator in Indianapolis, Indiana. In this senior management role, you will act as the principal representative for the FHWA, managing the Federal-aid Highway Program at the state level. You will be responsible for overseeing strategic initiatives, ensuring fiscal compliance, and providing expert guidance to state and local transportation partners. This position is ideal for a high-performing professional ready to manage complex infrastructure projects and contribute to the national transportation mission.
Requirements for Program Manager (Division Administrator)
- Must possess at least one year of specialized experience at the GS-14 level or equivalent.
- Must complete a one-year probationary period upon appointment.
- Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered with the Selective Service.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a required security clearance.
- Must adhere to government travel requirements and utilize a government travel card.
- Federal applicants must satisfy time-in-grade restrictions (52 weeks at the next lower grade).
Preferred Qualifications for Program Manager (Division Administrator)
- Extensive experience in developing and applying program management principles for Federal-aid surface transportation programs.
- Proven expertise in transportation planning, design, safety, environmental, and financial oversight.
- Strong track record of developing and implementing complex strategic and performance plans.
- Proven leadership in managing Federal-aid or Federal Lands Highway operations at a senior level.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal salary and benefits package.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
- ✓Contribution to national public infrastructure projects.
- ✓Telework eligibility as determined by agency policy.
- ✓Health and life insurance options, retirement programs, and paid leave benefits.
💡 How to Apply Program Manager (Division Administrator) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Program Manager (Division Administrator) Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages, detailing your relevant experience and specialized duties.
- Submit your online application and required documentation through the official portal before the closing date.
- Complete the mandatory assessment questionnaire included in the application process.
- Verify that all transferred documents have been successfully received by the system.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly limited to two pages to ensure it passes the HR review.
- Clearly define your experience with specific dates (MM/YYYY) and include your specific duties and measurable outcomes.
- Current federal employees should ensure their SF-50 documentation clearly reflects their 52-week time-in-grade requirement.
- Ensure your narrative responses are in paragraph format and explicitly match the requirements mentioned in the job description.
- Upload all required documentation as a single, organized PDF file to avoid submission errors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the page limit for my resume?
Per the current Merit Hiring Plan, your resume must not exceed two pages. HR will only review the first two pages submitted.
Is travel required for this position?
Yes, this position involves travel, and the successful candidate will be issued a government travel card for official business.
Can I submit a cover letter?
Additional information beyond your two-page resume, including cover letters, will not be reviewed during the initial qualification phase.
What happens after I apply?
Your application will undergo a two-phase review process: an initial technical qualification check and a Subject Matter Expert review based on your competencies.
What is the focus of the interview phase?
*A: Applicants moving to Phase II will be evaluated by Subject Matter Experts based on specific competencies and KSAs related to the role.*
Can I apply if I am not currently a federal employee?
*A: This position is open to individuals meeting the competitive service requirements.*
Job from Federal Highway Administration
The Department of Transportation (DOT) and its Operating Administration, the FHWA, are dedicated to prioritizing the safety of our transportation systems. We modernize aging infrastructure and maximize efficiency by reducing red tape. The DOT is consistently ranked as a top place to work in the federal government, offering a collaborative, results-oriented environment for professionals who want to make a lasting difference.