Project Engineer

Job Description

The Project Engineer is responsible for the design and construction of a variety of transportation projects. This includes in-house design and construction observation and overseeing and managing consultants. The engineer will help develop engineering standards, as well as ensure all projects are completed in accordance with all contract or agency standards. This position requires a broad base of knowledge and experience associated with owning, operating, and maintaining a highway system including but not limited to highway design, bridge design, safety, environmental, right-of-way and surveying, water resources, project management, public involvement, cost estimating, temporary and permanent traffic controls, plan preparation, bidding procedures, and construction inspection and observation.

Please submit an application on our website at

Position will remain open until filled. Application review process will be ongoing.

Job Responsibilities:

• Perform detailed drainage analyses for structures and make recommendations to County Commission, Highway Superintendent, or Township representatives.
• Perform topographic surveys and create maps with ArcMap.
• Design and prepare plans for drainage and highway projects
• Write contract documents and determine quantities for bidding and cost estimates. Review plans prepared by consultants and provide comments.
• Review bridge inspection reports and prepare mitigation plans. Review and comment on Development applications such as Development Engineering Plan submittals, building permits, grading permits, etc.
• Use computer-aided design and drafting (CADD), GIS, and other computer programs to create maps, exhibits, drawings, plans, presentations, spreadsheets and other documents to improve the maintenance, management, and efficiency of the Highway Department.
• Design and develop specifications of plans for transportation projects including asphalt and concrete streets, drainage systems, traffic control projects, minor bridge construction and maintenance, and other applicable plans. Determine methods, locations, standards, type of materials, and estimated costs. This includes environmental permitting and knowledge of regulations and procedures associated with Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP), erosion control measures, and compliance with Section 404 of the Clean Water Act.
• Review plans or specifications, plats, hydraulic studies, and permits submitted by outside consultants, contractors, developers, or other private individuals or groups, and make recommendations regarding their acceptability.
• Monitor construction projects for compliance with specifications and local, state, or federal rules, regulations, and ordinances by reviewing drawings, resolving issues with contractors and/or property owners, inspecting construction activities, materials, and equipment, ensuring appropriate rules and regulations are adhered to, and providing work direction or monitoring work methods of survey crews, engineering technicians, or any other departmental employees as assigned. Interpret geotechnical reports and implement recommendations.

Applicants Should Have:

Registration as a Professional Engineer in the State of South Dakota. Bachelor's degree in civil engineering plus four years of relevant and progressive work experience. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered. Possession of a valid driver’s license and must maintain a safe driving record with Lincoln County. Must successfully complete the pre-employment background process.

Highly Qualified Candidates Will Have:

Five years of progressively responsible experience designing, developing, and observing the construction of highway projects and/or bridges. Expertise gained from at least two years experience serving in a lead role in one or more of the following areas (in order of importance):

• Project Management
• Lead Project Engineer
• Roadway Design and Plan Preparation using AutoCAD Civil 3D
• Construction Inspection & Observation
• Contract Administration
• Environmental Permitting
• Hydraulic and Hydrologic Studies (TS&L)
• Right of Way and property boundaries
• Topographic surveys
• Bridge Design, Inspection and Maintenance
• Pavement or Bridge Management Systems