Civil Engineer (Structural) - DIRECT HIRE

Serving as the Arkansas Division Bridge Engineer, this employee manages federal highway programs for bridges, tunnels, and structures statewide. Core responsibilities include evaluating structural programs (geotech, hydraulics, inspection, and preservation), guiding staff on complex projects, and liaising with FHWA Headquarters. The role keeps the State DOT informed on structural laws and research, conducts technical training, and develops solutions for emerging infrastructure challenges.

The Civil Engineer (Structural): Represents the Division at meetings and discussions of bridge, tunnel, and other structures related policy and program matters and addresses/responds to correspondence relating to same. Interprets and implements Federal program changes, procedural guidance, and policy, and develops processes affecting highway bridges and structures. Evaluates eligibility of structural work for Federal-aid program funding. Evaluates and promotes improvements in the State's administration of Federal programs for bridges, tunnels, and other structures and encourages the use of enhanced planning, design, and construction, preservation, inspection and maintenance practices for structures. Ensures all projects are in accordance with Federal law, regulations and policies. Administers FHWA structural inspection program(s) (e.g., National Bridge Inspection Program (NBIP) and National Tunnel Inspection Program (NTIP)). Provides oversight of State compliance with the National Bridge Inspection Standards (NBIS) and National Tunnel Inspection Standards (NTIS) and recommends improvements. Evaluates the severity of material deterioration and assigns ratings according to coding guidance as developed by FHWA and/or the State highway agency. Recognizes when it is necessary to close a bridge or tunnel (or recommend closure) because of imminent danger. Provides guidance to the State for bridge and tunnel inventory needs and interpretation of acceptable inspection and coding methods for the NBIS and NTIS. Develops follow-up strategies and works with the State to overcome areas of non-compliance. Maintains and conducts a Risk Based Stewardship and Oversight Program for bridges, tunnels, and structures under design and construction and ensures that there is full coordination with responsible Division staff and State representatives. Reviews structural plans for suitability of structural adequacy, economy, safety, aesthetics, hydraulics, foundation, and overall concept. Interprets and applies relevant structural codes for testing, design, construction and maintenance of structures, including retrofit. Promotes the use of the most current technologies, standards, and practices in the development of projects. Evaluates proposals, makes recommendations, and approves concepts for development of detailed contract plans. Resolves conflicts and controversies resulting from comments and recommendations and inputs of other offices and agencies. Promotes consideration of national innovative initiatives as well as alternative materials and the incorporation of economical and simplified fabrication of structural components. Assists customers in addressing issues and implementing processes such as the promotion of accelerated construction techniques. Accompanies Division staff in their construction inspection activities when deemed appropriate, and particularly when there are technical difficulties. Performs construction reviews/inspections and evaluates and renders a decision relative to the State's proposed remedial actions, making recommendations associated therewith. The ideal candidate for this position is a seasoned mid-career structural engineering professional with project management experience in bridge design, bridge construction inspection, bridge program management, and geotechnical.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT: As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you may be required to serve a 1-year probationary period during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In determining if your employment advances the public interest, we may consider: your performance and conduct; the needs and interests of the agency; whether your continued employment would advance the organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service. Upon completion of your probationary period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest. SELECTIVE SERVICE: Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered for the Selective Service. GOVERNMENT TRAVEL CARD: This position involves travel. A government contractor-issued travel card will be issued and must be retained for official business only. BACKGROUND INVESTIGATION: A background security investigation is required for all selected individuals. Appointment will be subject to the applicant's successful completion of the security investigation and favorable adjudication. Failure to meet these requirements will be grounds for termination. PROBATIONARY PERIOD: Applicants may be required to successfully complete a one-year probationary period (unless already completed).