Lead Construction Engineering Technician

About the role

This position serves in an advanced capacity in one or more focus areas, overseeing and performing general and advanced construction and field observation on projects to ensure completion in close compliance with plans and specifications. The role works independently with minimal supervision, applying knowledge of construction practices and materials testing requirements to document contractor progress and perform quality assurance.

Responsibilities

• Perform general and advanced construction and field observation.
• Read and interpret construction plans and specifications for quality assurance during construction.
• Utilize knowledge of surveying, staking procedures, checking line and grade, and cross sections for quality assurance review.
• Conduct materials testing on soil, concrete, bituminous, and aggregate materials following prescribed procedures.
• Maintain log of materials testing results.
• Measure installed quantities, track and report on installed products, including calculating areas, distances, and volumes.
• Work directly with internal and external clients and contractors.
• Write documentation for as-built drawings when adjustments are made to design.
• Complete detailed construction reports using MS Word, MS Excel, and construction management software.
• Monitor performance of contractors and address design compliance issues.
• Assist with training and scheduling of staff.
• Assist in establishing budgets and preparing/presenting proposals.
• Perform submittal control reviews for billing clients.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent required; 2-year degree from technical school or college, or equivalent experience preferred.
• 10+ years’ construction, survey, and/or field observation experience, with 5+ years as a project lead.
• Proficiency in MS Word and MS Excel.
• Ability to pass required certifications and maintain them throughout employment.
• Experience and knowledge of materials testing.
• Valid driver’s license with good driving record.

Skills

• Advanced knowledge of construction practices and methodology.
• Progressive knowledge of surveying, staking procedures, checking line and grade, and cross sections.
• Understanding and knowledge of testing procedures for soil, concrete, bituminous, and aggregate materials.
• Ability to interpret and understand plans and specifications.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Exhibits initiative, responsibility, flexibility, and leadership.
• Ability to lead, manage, train, and mentor others.
• Proficiency in MS Office and technical software; ability to learn CPM and Newforma software.
• AutoCAD or ArcGIS knowledge and/or experience helpful.
• Good math skills (ability to calculate areas, distances, and volumes).
• Strong organizational skills and self-motivation.
• Good technical writing skills, including grammar and proofreading.
• Effective human relations skills to build consensus, resolve conflict, and address design compliance issues.
• Ability to embrace new technology and processes.

Certifications

Certifications have reciprocity in some states. Required certifications may include but are not limited to:

• Concrete
• Soil Density
• Asphalt
• Paint
• Welding
• Sewer Testing
• Traffic Control
• Railway Worker On-Track Safety
• E-Rail Safe
• Safety Orientation
• 10-Hour OSHA
• Confined Space
• First Aid, CPR, and AED

Travel Expectations

• Overnight travel is required, with travel in a company or personal vehicle to project sites, staying near the site during the workweek (expenses paid).
• Travel up to 20-80% of the time, depending on base location and project work.

Working Conditions

• Work is primarily outside with exposure to extreme weather conditions and natural elements; appropriate clothing required.
• Must be able to stand, walk, stoop, kneel, crouch, climb, crawl, and balance for extended periods.
• Extensive walking and ability to navigate difficult terrain, including uneven surfaces, ditches, and steep slopes.
• Must be able to use hands for carrying items, operating devices/equipment, and operating an ATV.
• Occasional lifting requirements:
  • Maximum lift of 100 lbs. from floor to knuckle or floor to shoulder.
  • Maximum lift of 5 lbs. from shoulder to overhead.
  • Maximum unilateral lift of 25 lbs. from waist to overhead.
  • Maximum carry of 80 lbs. for 50 feet.
  • Maximum vertical pull force of 125 lbs.
  • Maximum grip force of 90 lbs.
• Work hours dictated by contractors, potentially including 12-15 hour workdays.
• Post-offer, pre-employment lifting test required.

This position is subject to drug and alcohol testing under the authority of the Federal Railroad Administration. The selected candidate will be required to pass a DOT FRA drug test and complete a background check as a condition of employment. An applicant with a confirmed positive test result in the past (or equivalent) who has not completed all rehabilitation program requirements and follow-up testing is not eligible for this position.