Civil Engineering Specialist - Bridge Design

State of Montana•Helena, MT

9d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Montana Department of Transportation is recruiting a Civil Engineering Specialist for its Bridge Bureau in Helena. The role designs and develops construction plans and documents for bridge replacement and rehabilitation projects. Work includes evaluating proposals and problems, interpreting data, analyzing structural systems, selecting alternatives, documenting designs and calculations, preparing plans, and writing construction documents. Through this design work, the employee commits the Department to a specific course of action; decisions and methods are based on the employee’s engineering knowledge and judgment. The position is part of a career ladder with advancement opportunities. The Bridge Bureau has approximately 60 professionals across bridge design, management, inspection, and project management. The team emphasizes engineering excellence, teamwork, innovation, customer service, and professional support. A potential hybrid remote work arrangement may be available. The role requires education and experience equivalent to a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Civil Engineering Technology, or a closely related field. Level 2 requires 6 months to 2 years of engineering or directly related experience and proof of passing the Fundamental Engineering Exam (FE). Level 3 requires 2 to 4 years of engineering or directly related experience and proof of passing the FE, Engineering Intern Certification (EIT), or a Professional Engineer license.

Requirements

Education and experience equivalent to a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Civil Engineering Technology, or a closely related field. Related fields may include Environmental Engineering, Geologic/Geotechnical Engineering, Materials Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Engineering Science.
For Level 2: 6 months to 2 years of engineering or directly related work experience.
For Level 2: proof of passage of the Fundamental Engineering Exam (FE).
For Level 3: 2 to 4 years of engineering or directly related work experience.
For Level 3: proof of passage of the FE, Engineering Intern Certification (EIT), or a licensed Professional Engineer credential.
Advanced knowledge of Civil Engineering theory, principles, methods, and techniques, and associated mathematics and physical sciences, especially bridge structural design methods and practices.
Familiarity with AASHTO Design Specifications and standards, Bridge Bureau standards and policies, industry guidelines and practices, and bridge and road construction methods.
Demonstrated engineering analysis skills and ability to apply engineering concepts, techniques, and procedures in varied circumstances.
Skill in using office engineering instruments, including computers and handheld calculators.
Effective written and verbal communication skills.
A resume detailing qualifications and work history, and a cover letter of no more than two pages addressing qualifications for the position.
A valid driving record is subject to verification; successful applicants must sign a release authorizing the Department to obtain permanent driving records and comply with applicable state vehicle-use rules and policies.

Responsibilities

Design and develop construction plans and documents for bridge replacement and rehabilitation projects.
Evaluate problems or proposals, interpret data, analyze structural systems, and select alternatives.
Document designs and calculations, prepare plans, and write construction documents.
Perform engineering analyses and apply engineering concepts, techniques, and procedures to varied situations.
Evaluate structural calculations and contract documents for clarity, accuracy, completeness, and constructability, and identify construction and design conflicts.
Apply engineering judgment when interpreting design guidelines and standards.
Prepare calculations, reports, and other documentation needed to complete design projects.
Communicate plans and information to designers, engineers, non-technical personnel, and the public.

Benefits

Health, dental, and vision insurance.
Access to Montana Health Centers, described as low-cost clinics for state employees and their families.
State retirement plan and additional savings opportunities through deferred compensation.
Overtime compensation or compensatory time for time in pay status over 40 hours in a workweek.
Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
Eligibility for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness.
Benefits apply on the first day of employment.
Relocation assistance may be offered to the successful candidate at the time of offer.
Potential hybrid remote work arrangement.
$5,000 sign-on bonus for the successful candidate.
Culture of public service and commitment to work/life balance.