Highway Engineering Assistant

State of Indiana; West Lafayette (IN); On-site; USD 48,000 - 59,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Three medical plan options

Vision and dental plans

Wellness Rewards Program

Job summary

The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) within the State of Indiana is seeking dedicated professionals to calibrate, operate, and evaluate data from multiple test systems across the state. The role includes field testing, data collection, and QA/QC responsibilities for bridge and pavement projects, with required CDL and heavy lifting.

Travel 3 days a week is expected from spring through autumn. Ideal candidates bring a valid CDL, physical endurance, and strong teamwork.

Qualifications

• Must possess a valid Class A or Class B Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) or obtain one within 90 days.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and perform physically demanding tasks.
• Able to work in varying weather and travel statewide; passes safety standards.
• Familiarity with GPS and basic Microsoft Office tools (Word/Excel/Access).

Responsibilities

• Inspect bridges and large culverts with a two-person team using specialized equipment.
• Maintain and update the Bridge Inspection and Asset Database.
• Prepare reports and work orders detailing inspection findings and required repairs.
• Plow snow as required and assist with district operations as needed.
• Provide training and support for new operators and visitors.

Skills

CDL operation knowledge

Physical endurance

Teamwork

Communication skills

Tools

GPS

Microsoft Office

Job description

Work for Indiana

Begin a fulfilling career with the State of Indiana by joining one of the largest employers in the state, offering a range of opportunities across 60+ agencies. At the state, you'll find competitive compensation, a robust benefits package and a commitment to work-life balance. Most importantly, you'll have the chance to make a real and measurable impact on the lives of Hoosiers across Indiana

Work for Indiana

Begin a fulfilling career with the State of Indiana by joining one of the largest employers in the state, offering a range of opportunities across 60+ agencies. At the state, you'll find competitive compensation, a robust benefits package and a commitment to work-life balance. Most importantly, you'll have the chance to make a real and measurable impact on the lives of Hoosiers across Indiana

About The Indiana Department Of Transportation

The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) provides a dynamic workplace that serves Indiana citizens, improves our state’s quality of life, and enhances its economic opportunity. INDOT has a number of innovative programs and projects, including Public-Private Partnerships, Green Initiatives, and cutting-edge uses of materials and assets. As part of the State of Indiana, INDOT offers a competitive total compensation package, as well as outstanding work/life balance. Whether you are an established professional in the transportation field or just starting your career, INDOT has exciting and challenging opportunities for you.

Role Overview

Calibrates, operates, and evaluates data from multiple specialize test systems throughout the state (e.g. pavement deflection system (FWD), Lock-Wheel Friction System, GPRs, IRI, 3D Laser Condition Rating System, Bridge Deck Coring, etc.) to collect and analyze data for the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) Research and Development Office, other INDOT Offices, Divisions and Districts, Attorney General’s office and various research study committees for data-driven decision-making and programming bridge and pavement projects;

• Becomes certified and maintains certification for the FWD and Friction Test Systems;- Obtain CDL license to operate R&D Core Rig and assist in District snow removal operations;
• Follows all related safety standards and conducts/participates in safety briefing;
• Performs testing and data collection on various NDT specialized testing systems with quality and accuracy by staying 3-4 nights per week all over the state.
• Performs and maintains calibration of test systems to prescribed federal and state specifications;
• Performs maintenance, repair and system upgrades to complex electro/mechanical test systems;
• Snow Plowing and salting and chemical spraying during winter months with the local units for winter operationswith maintaining the CDL and driving licenses all the time as per it's requirements.
• Performs construction, materials, and bridge testing on field projects for QA/QC compliance;
• Assists R&D Laboratory Managers in conducting multiple laboratory tests and data analysis;
• Assist with Facilities and B&G repair and maintenance;
• Provides training, cross-training, and present testing equipment and concepts for new operators, visitors, university students and federal highway staff.

Must have Commercial Drivers License or ability to gain 90 days after employment; Must Travel Indiana statewide 3 days/nights per week from April 1st to November 1st every year.

Location:

The position is in INDOT's Research & Development Division.

Salary

The salary for this position traditionally starts at $53,222.00 but may be commensurate with education and work experience. Use our Compensation Calculator to view the total compensation package.

CDL Positions

Candidates with a current CDL and endorsements required by the district will earn an additional $1 per hour. Candidates without a CDL will be given 90 days to obtain their CDL and endorsements required by the district and will then earn an additional $1 per hour. CDL training provided onsite by certified INDOT staff.

A Day In The Life

The essential functions of this role are as follows:

• Acts as part of two-person team to visually and physically performs standard, special and emergency inspections on, under and above bridges and large culverts.This includes operating bridge inspection equipment to determine existence and extent of damage, deterioration and potential hazards and assures the safe operation of the inspection equipment.
• Maintains, monitors, updates, and corrects the INDOT Bridge Inspection and Asset Database.
• Aids in preparing reports detailing bridge and large culverts inspection findings conducted under the direction of the supervisor such as: Updating pictures and videos, Preparing work orders for items needing repair or maintenance; Gathering data and measurements.
• Collects and reviews pertinent data in order to prepare for site inspections.
• Performs miscellaneous duties to facilitate operational efficiency of work unit (e.g., assists district bridge crews in making repairs to bridge structures.
• Required to plow snow as needed.

The job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or be assigned at any time.

What You'll Need For Success

• Must possess a valid Class A or Class B Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) or obtain one with the first 90 days of employment.
• Must be able to lift 50 pounds.
• Ability to perform physical activities such as lifting, dragging, stooping, standing, and walking for long periods of time, as well as walking on traverse, steep and slippery slopes, climb.
• Must be able to endure exposure to inclement weather:
• Considerable knowledge of highway statutory, departmental, and administrative laws, rules, and regulations; Ability to operate specialty traffic equipment (e.g., bucket trucks, paint equipment, etc.…).
• Ability to follow directions and work as part of a team. Experience in traffic control, confined space, boating safety; Ability to use a geographical positioning system (GPS).
• Broad knowledge of Microsoft computer programs to include Word, Outlook, Excel, and Access; Ability to read and interpret bridge plans.
• Effectively communicate, both orally and in writing.

A Degree Is Not Required.

Individuals should have the ability to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

Supervisory Responsibilities/Direct Reports

This role may be utilized in a supervisory capacity based on agency needs.

Benefits Of Employment With The State Of Indiana

• Three (3) medical plan options (including RX coverage) as well as vision and dental plans
• Wellness Rewards Program: