Alternative Project Engineer

State of Montana; Montana; Hybrid; USD 85,000 - 115,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work arrangement

Health, Dental, Vision Insurance

State retirement plan

Job summary

Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) is seeking an Alternative Project Engineer to oversee complex, multi‑discipline transportation projects using alternate delivery methods such as DB, PDB, CM/GC, and ICE. Roles include directing contracts, coordinating stakeholders, and ensuring program success.

The position is based in Helena with possible case-by-case relocation consideration and a potential hybrid remote work arrangement.

Qualifications

• Extensive knowledge of civil engineering principles for transportation projects.
• Experience planning, designing or constructing large-scale projects.
• Ability to lead teams and coordinate multiple stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Manage and direct complex, multi-discipline transportation projects with alternate delivery methods (DB, PDB, CM/GC, ICE).
• Develop, negotiate, execute and administer contracts statewide.
• Supervise or lead consultants and internal teams, ensuring on-time, on-budget delivery.

Skills

Civil engineering knowledge

Project management

Leadership

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering

Professional Engineer (PE) license

Job description

The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) is recruiting for an Alternative Project Engineer. The position performs project management duties to develop and complete multiple concurrent, complex, and multi-discipline transportation-related alternative delivery projects with multiple separate alternative delivery firms simultaneously. The position is responsible for developing, directing and monitoring state-wide diverse and complex projects; developing, negotiating, executing, and administrating Design-Build (DB), Progressive Design-Build (PDB), Construction Manager/General Contractor (CM/GC), and Independent Cost Estimator (ICE) contracts state-wide. In addition, the position may manage or assist in managing consultant design projects through MDT’s Transportation Alternatives and/or Consultant Plans Sections.

This position is based in Helena, though candidates in other locations may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Benefits of working for MDT and the State of Montana include:

• Culture of public service and a commitment to work/life balance
• Potential hybrid remote work arrangement available
• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Access to Montana Health Centers, low-cost clinics for state employees and their families
• State Retirement plan and additional savings opportunities (deferred compensation)
• Employees in this position receive overtime compensation or compensatory time for all time in a pay status over 40 hours in a workweek
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Eligibility for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness
• Benefits apply on first day of employment
• Relocation assistance may be offered to the successful candidate at the time of offer

For information on the Montana Department of Transportation’s mission, vision, and values, please visit our website: https://www.mdt.mt.gov/about.aspx#values

Required Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering or a related field.
• 5 years of progressively responsible experience including project planning, design or construction.
• Minimum of 1 year of supervision or team lead experience.
• A Montana Professional Engineer (PE) license is required.
• DBIA certification is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Extensive knowledge of the theory, principles, methods and techniques of civil engineering for the design and construction of transportation projects
• Knowledge of state and federal contracting procedures; technical and legal documentation standards; principles of negotiation and conflict management; and knowledge of MDT internal organization and functions
• Ability to develop and manage diverse projects; applying analysis and professional judgment to draw conclusions and make recommendations
• Ability to demonstrate leadership by recognizing and initiating activities to accomplish objectives, motivating peers, and working to maintain a positive work culture

Other Information:

• Driver’s record will be verified. Successful applicants will be required to sign a release form which authorizes the Department to obtain the applicant’s permanent driving records. Compliance with Mont. Admin. R. 2.6.201, “State Vehicle Use,” and MDT Policy #6.03.001, “State Vehicle Use Policy” are conditions of employment.
• This position is covered by a VEBA (Voluntary Employee Benefit Association). The successful applicant for this position who is eligible-retirement qualified will be required to participate in the VEBA group. The VEBA group can take part in an annual election. Any questions regarding the VEBA can be addressed to Laurie Edwards, MDT People Operations Bureau 444-6053.
• The Montana Department of Transportation is an equal opportunity employer. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, people with disabilities, and veterans and disabled veterans are encouraged to apply. People with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may call the Human Resources and Occupational Safety Division, at 406.444.6054.
• The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) is committed to continuous improvement of our employee safety program and our safety and health processes, and to achieving an injury-free workplace.
• Proof of eligibility to work in the United States must be provided if selected for hire. Generally, sponsorship for work authorization is not available through the State of Montana.
• Effective 5/26/2026, MDT is participating in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. After accepting a job offer and completing Form I-9, your information will be submitted to the Department of Homeland Security and Social Security Administration for verification. For more information about E-Verify, please visit the E-Verify website found here, https://www.e-verify.gov