Engineering Assistant I, II, or III Design Section - Bridge Division

Performs engineering work involving job rotation, training, and continuing education in design, construction, construction inspection, maintenance, surveying, environmental, and/or transportation operations-related activities. Actively pursues engineering licensing/registration through appropriate training and exams. Design activity is supervised by a licensed professional engineer who has authority for final approval of all projects. Work requires contact with local governmental representatives, engineering contractors, and private entities. Employees perform work independently on assignments; however, all unusual issues are referred to the supervisor.

All employees classified as Engineering Assistants are required to participate in the Engineering Assistant Career Development Program (EACDP), which includes signing a Program Agreement outlining employee responsibilities and service time commitment.

Responsibilities

• Engineering Assistant I:
  • Performs research and problem-solving of engineering-related problems.
  • Reviews construction plans prepared by consultants; designs and details bridge and structural elements.
  • Actively prepares for professional engineering licensing/registration through training and exams.
  • Applies engineering principles, methods, and techniques to bridge structures.
  • Participates in the Engineering Assistant Career Development Program, including job rotation and training.
  • Performs design computations, plan preparations, and engineering-related calculations.
  • Uses automated structural design programs and computer-assisted design/engineering systems.
• Engineering Assistant II:
  • Performs all duties of Engineering Assistant I.
  • Performs advanced and specialized engineering design work for bridge structures.
• Engineering Assistant III:
  • Performs all duties of Engineering Assistant I and II.
  • Trains less experienced engineering assistants, specialists, and technicians.

Requirements

• Education:
  • Bachelor’s Degree in engineering or a related science bachelor’s or higher degree accepted by TX PELS.
  • Acceptable substitutions:
    • Master’s degree in engineering or a Master of Engineering degree from an institution offering a bachelor of science degree in the same discipline accredited by EAC/ABET.
    • Doctoral degree in engineering or a Doctor of Engineering degree from an institution offering a bachelor of science degree in the same discipline accredited by EAC/ABET.
• Experience:
  • Engineering Assistant I: No work experience required.
  • Engineering Assistant II: 1 year of engineering-related experience (full-time or prorated part-time equivalent).
  • Engineering Assistant III: 2 years of engineering-related experience (full-time or prorated part-time equivalent). Passing the Professional Engineer (PE) exam may substitute for two years of experience.
• Licenses and Certifications:
  • Valid driver’s license (required for driving a state vehicle).
  • Engineering Assistant II and III: Texas Engineer In Training Certificate (mandatory).

Skills

• Engineering Assistant I:
  • Computer-aided drafting and design systems.
  • Applying engineering principles, practices, and methods.
  • Performing calculations using algebra, trigonometry, and geometry.
  • Application of engineering fundamentals.
  • Logic and reasoning to define problems, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
  • Engineering designs and design review for bridge structures.
• Engineering Assistant II:
  • Greater proficiency in the above skills.
  • Reading and interpreting plans, schematics, blueprints, and maps.
• Engineering Assistant III:
  • Greater proficiency in the above skills.
  • Research and analysis methodologies.
  • Advanced and specialized design/drafting for bridge structures.

About the Role

TxDOT’s Bridge Division – Design Section oversees activities related to in-house bridge, railing, and traffic structures design, plan preparation, intelligent 3D bridge modeling, research implementation, bridge standards development, historic bridge preservation, bridge design policy, and bridge detailing guidance. This role performs bridge and structural engineering work serving the 25 Districts and the state of Texas, advancing design through new innovations and technology. The Engineering Assistant will have opportunities to cross-train in specialized areas within the Bridge Division or at a District through the Engineering Assistant Career Development Program (EACDP).

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

• Subject to inside and outside environmental conditions.
• Sedentary work: Lifting up to 10 lbs occasionally and carrying files/small tools.
• Repetitive motion: Substantial movements of the wrists, hands, and/or fingers.
• Close visual acuity: Work includes data/figures, viewing a computer screen, and extensive reading.

This position is physically demanding and requires a pre-employment physical. It is classified as a Safety Impact position, subject to random drug testing.

Pay

• Engineering Assistant I (B20): $51,200 - $73,200 yearly
• Engineering Assistant II (B21): $54,300 - $78,400 yearly
• Engineering Assistant III (B22): $57,700 - $83,800 yearly

Benefits

• Retirement plans.
• Alternative and/or flexible work schedules.
• Paid leave and holidays.
• Health premiums paid at 100% for full-time employees.
• On-the-job training.
• Tuition assistance program.
• Holistic wellness program with leave incentives.
• Career development and advancement opportunities.
• Family-friendly policies and programs.

TxDOT was recognized as a Best Place for Working Parents in 2024, and many offices are designated as Texas Mother-Friendly Worksites.

Schedule

Full-time, regular employee status.