CIVIL ENGINEER TRAINEE- DISTRICT 5 (Champaign, IL, US, 61820)

Experience Champaign Urbana; Champaign (IL); Hybrid; USD 52,000 - 71,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, Life, Vision, and Dental Ins.

Pension Plan

Paid sick days (12) annually

Vacation days (10–25)

Tuition Reimbursement

Hybrid scheduling

Maternity/Paternity leave (12 weeks)

Job summary

Illinois Department of Transportation seeks a Civil Engineer Trainee to assist with final plans and implementation of highway construction projects. This role offers a clear pathway to Civil Engineer I within 7–9 months, with potential growth to Civil Engineer II/III within 12–24 months.

The position features a Monday–Friday schedule with hybrid in-office options, comprehensive benefits, and a robust training program designed to broaden professional Civil Engineering skills across multiple

Qualifications

• Bachelor of science in engineering from ABET‑accredited college (or expected within 12 months)
• Current Illinois Engineer Intern Certificate OR a current Professional Engineer license OR a current Structural Engineer license in Illinois
• GPA minimum 2.0 (out of 4.0); if GPA 2.0–2.5, require engineering intern certificate or PE/Structural license

Responsibilities

• Ensure accuracy and completeness of all assigned work.
• Provide accurate measurement, computation, and documentation of contract items.
• Keep supervisor informed of problems or deviations.
• Ensure inspected items meet specifications.
• Provide accurate and timely layouts.
• Participate in district rotations as part of training.
• Adhere to safety rules and treat all employees fairly.

Skills

Civil engineering basics

Technical computations

Documentation & measurement

Oral & written communication

Problem solving

Education

ABET-accredited engineering degree

Illinois Engineer Intern Certificate

Professional Engineer license (IL)

Structural Engineer License (IL)

Tools

Engineering field instruments & office programs

Job description

Job Requisition ID: 59102IPR26-01308

Opening Date: 10/01/2026

Closing Date: 10/30/2026

Agency: Department of Transportation

Class Title: CIVIL ENGINEER TRAINEE - PW110

Salary: Anticipated Starting Salary $4,631 monthly; Full Range: $4,631 - $6,323 monthly

Job Type: Salaried

Category: Full Time

Number of Vacancies: 9

Bargaining Unit Code: NR 916 Pro-Tech Teamsters

Work Hours: 8:00 - 4:30 Monday - Friday

Anticipated Hybrid Work Schedule Availability: 1 to 5 Days per week in office, depending on operational needs

Headquarter Location: 1800 S Oak St, Champaign, Illinois, 61820

Work County: Champaign

Office: Office of Highways Project Implementation / Bureau of Project Implementation / Region 3 / District 5

Agency Contact: [e-mail]

Why Work for Illinois

Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you’re helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you’re part of something bigger—something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home.

No matter what state career you’re looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule—flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.

Position Overview

This position is accountable for assisting in many phases of work involved in the preparation of final plans and implementation of work for all types of highway construction projects.

Essential Functions

• Responsible for accuracy and completeness of all assigned work.
• Provides accurate measurement, computation, and documentation of contract items.
• Keeps supervisor informed of any problems encountered or deviations made.
• Ensures that the items inspected are in accordance with the specifications.
• Provides accurate and timely layouts.
• Rotates to other bureaus within the district as part of the rotational training program.
• Performs duties in compliance with departmental safety rules. Performs all duties in a manner conducive to the fair and equitable treatment of all employees.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Completion of a bachelor of science degree in engineering from an ABET accredited college (including those expecting to graduate in the next 12 months) OR a current Illinois Engineer Intern Certificate OR a current Professional Engineer license in the state of Illinois OR a current Structural Engineer License in the state of Illinois.
• Those applying with only a degree must have a minimum of 2.0 (out of 4.0) cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA). lf cumulative GPA is between 2.0 and 2.5 (out of 4.0), applicants must also possess a current Illinois Engineer Intern Certificate OR a current Professional Engineer license in the state of Illinois OR a current Structural Engineer License in the state of Illinois.

Preferred Qualifications

• Working knowledge of the routine practices of civil engineering.
• Coursework and training in civil engineering.
• Basic skill in the use of engineering field and office instruments and programs.
• Ability to make relatively difficult technical computations and estimates.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.

Conditions of Employment

• Valid driver’s license.
• Districtwide travel
• Successful completion of a background check.
• The conditions of employment listed here are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listed in the job description.

About the Agency

The Illinois Department of Transportation is seeking to hire Civil Engineer Trainee.

The IDOT team works diligently to provide safe, cost-effective transportation for Illinois in ways that enhance quality of life, promote economic prosperity and protect our environment. We are problem solvers and leaders, constantly searching for innovations and improvements in support of our commitment to providing the best multimodal transportation system for Illinois.

Our team fosters a culture of inclusivity. We value diversity and hold ourselves to the highest ethical standards as we work together for a common purpose. Team members frequently collaborate with colleagues and others outside the department to best meet customer needs.

The department offers extensive training and career advancement opportunities.

• As a Civil Engineer Trainee, you have the possibility of promoting to a Civil Engineer I within 7-9 months.
• A possibility of promoting to a Civil Engineer II within 12-24 months.
• A possibility of promoting to a Civil Engineer III within 18-24 months.

Civil Engineer Trainees with the Illinois Department of Transportation are trained in a variety of specializations during the program. They work with engineers from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and careers. They are exposed to both external and internal engineering professionals. This program is a unique opportunity to expand your knowledge and career while networking within a vast engineering network. IDOT offers an ideal program to start and expand an engineering career.

The department offers extensive training and career advancement opportunities. Employees also receive a robust benefit package including:

• Monday-Friday work schedule
• Flexible work schedules in several program areas (flexible time, hybrid scheduling).
• Health, Life, Vision, and Dental Insurance
• Pension Plan
• (12) Weeks paid Maternity/Paternity Leave
• Deferred Compensation Program and other pre-tax benefit programs (Medical/Daycare)
• Employees earn (12) paid Sick Days annually.
• New Employees earn (10) paid Vacation Days their first year of service and can earn up to (25) paid Vacation Days annually.
• Employees earn (3) paid Personal Days annually.
• (13-14) paid holidays annually (based on start date)
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Employee Assistance Program and/or mental health resources

We invite qualified applicants to become part of our team. We are confident that you will take pride in serving Illinois and its residents and visitors.