Highway Civil Engineer
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The Ohio Federal-aid Highway Division is hiring a Highway Civil Engineer (GS-0810-13 - from $111,065 to $144,386 annually) in Columbus, Ohio. Apply today by visiting https://www.usajobs.gov/job/886144600 (open to U.S. Citizens, Nationals, or those who owe allegiance to the USA, as well as Career Transition: CTAP, ICTAP, or RPL Federal employees). This job announcement closes on 10/07/2026 (but submit your application as soon as possible to receive the best consideration).
The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) provides stewardship over the construction, maintenance and preservation of the Nation's highways, bridges, and tunnels. FHWA also conducts research and provides technical assistance to state and local agencies to improve safety, mobility, and to encourage innovation.
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The selectee serves as a senior engineering expert for program and project delivery, responsible for providing comprehensive stewardship and oversight of Ohio's Federal-aid Highway Programs. As a member of a cross-functional team, the incumbent leads technical and operational activities across all project phases, from initial planning and environmental clearance to design, construction, maintenance, and financing.
Why this role matters:
- Engineering Stewardship: Elevates infrastructure performance across the State of Ohio by ensuring complex builds meet rigorous safety standards, remain on budget, and adhere to precise design specifications.
- Strategic Impact: Drives innovation by applying Risk-Based Stewardship and Oversight (RBSO) principles and spearheading the deployment of new technologies and modernized controls.
- Consensus Building: Navigates sensitive project hurdles by serving as the primary technical advisor to Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) officials and public stakeholders to resolve intricate, multi-disciplinary challenges.
As a Highway Civil Engineer, you will:
- Promote and assure implementation of state-of-the-practice and state-of-the-art cost and schedule control principles in the planning, design, and construction of all project elements and aspects in a manner that protects the Federal interest.
- Promote and assure implementation of state-of-the-practice and state-of-the-art project management and communications tools and techniques among all project partners. Provide leadership and expertise in finalizing and implementing the Project Management and Financial Plans for any assigned major projects.
- Lead program and project delivery activities in accordance with federal requirements and Ohio Division risk-based stewardship and oversight plan. In addition to engineering program objectives, oversee program management functions, which may include design, environment, construction, contract administration, pavement and materials, safety, ITS, bridge and other project delivery related activities.
- Serve as a key technical advisor to ODOT officials and other Federal, State, and local agencies regarding assigned program areas.
- The incumbent facilitates communication and coordination among Ohio Division Office teams and team members to enhance overall Federal-aid highway program and project delivery. This involves the performance of a variety of high-level duties in the areas of project delivery, finance, planning, resource utilization, program delivery, contract administration and other transportation related areas. Facilitates an environment of consensus building, partnering, and performing assigned functions.
The ideal candidate is a mid-career engineer with experience monitoring statewide Federally funded highway programs or managing the delivery of a program of highway projects from initial scoping through construction support and maintenance.
Additionally, the ideal candidate should have experience conveying ideas and concepts to persuade others in meetings, discussions, and in writing.
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Why Columbus, Ohio? Central Ohio is one of the fastest-growing regions in the Midwest, rapidly emerging as a premier logistics and tech hub. Beyond the booming economy, Columbus offers a cost of living approximately 7% below the national average, an effortless average commute, and an incredibly vibrant culture and outdoor scene. Residents enjoy seamless access to world-class healthcare, numerous dining options, active arts districts, and extensive metro parks. It is the perfect, welcoming city to advance your career, spend less time in traffic, and build a fantastic overall quality of life.
Expanding your horizon to the state level, Ohio consistently ranks among the top business-friendly states, featuring a resilient economy driven by innovation, advanced manufacturing, and research. Beyond the office, The Buckeye State boasts an unbeatable quality of life defined by four distinct seasons, scenic natural landscapes, and dozens of state parks to explore. From weekend getaways along Lake Erie to the rolling hills of the Hocking Hills region, outdoor adventures and rich cultural destinations are always within a short drive. Combined with strong educational institutions and a stretch-your-dollar cost of living, living in Ohio allows you to achieve true work-life balance while building a rewarding future.
Find FHWA's Ohio Federal-aid Highway Division at 200 North High Street in downtown Columbus!
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