Highway Civil Engineer
Don't Delay - Start Your Career Today with FHWA!
The Federal Highway Administration’s Professional Development Program is hiring Highway Civil Engineers (GS-0810-07/09 - from $56,039 to $90,540 annually) in Hartford (Connecticut), Tallahassee (Florida), and San Juan (Puerto Rico). Apply today by visiting https://www.usajobs.gov/job/878341300 (open to U.S. Citizens, Nationals, or those who owe allegiance to the USA, as well as Career Transition: CTAP, ICTAP, or RPL Federal employees). This job announcement closes on 08/12/2026 (but submit your application as soon as possible to receive the best consideration).
The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) provides stewardship over the construction, maintenance and preservation of the Nation's highways, bridges, and tunnels. FHWA also conducts research and provides technical assistance to state and local agencies to improve safety, mobility, and to encourage innovation.
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FHWA is seeking new participants to join our family through the Professional Development Program (PDP). This is a 24-month entry-level program comprised of:
- On-the-Job Training
- Developmental Assignments
- Formal Training and Academies
Applicants must maintain geographic mobility while on the program, sign a service agreement, and be ready for an adventure!
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As a Highway Civil Engineer, you will:
- Receive structured, on-the-job training guided by a personalized development plan
- Work directly within FHWA's Federal-aid and Federal Lands Highway Divisions
You may take on assignments in one or more of the following specialty areas:
- Engineering and Design: bridge, design, geotechnical, hydraulics, materials, and pavements
- Project Management and Execution: construction, project development, surveys, and value engineering
- Operations and Planning: planning, traffic operations, Intelligent Transportation Systems, access management, utilities, and right-of-way
- Safety and Research: environment, preventative maintenance, safety, and research
The ideal candidate for this position is an entry to beginning level technical engineer who has a desire to learn about the various aspects of technical highway engineering. This includes, but is not limited to, highway design, construction, bridge, geotechnical, survey and mapping, hydraulics, and materials testing.
The ideal candidate should also have between 0 to 5 years of experience, be mobile and willing to travel to remote locations for extended periods of time and be able to work independently and in a team environment.
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When looking at Connecticut as a whole, the state offers a high quality of life with a strong emphasis on work-life balance. The job market extends beyond Hartford's insurance scene to include aerospace, education, and healthcare across the state. Interestingly, one report suggested Connecticut residents spend less time working compared to the national average, potentially pointing to a prevalence of part-time work or strong labor laws like the CT Paid Leave Program. This allows ample time for weekend getaways, whether it's hiking in the Berkshires, visiting the Mystic Seaport, or taking a short drive to the coastal beaches of Rhode Island.
Living in Hartford offers a unique blend of urban energy and historical charm. The city provides a manageable cost of living compared to other Northeast hubs, making it attractive for young professionals. The job market is robust, particularly in the insurance and financial sectors, earning it the title of "Insurance Capital of the World". In their free time, residents can enjoy cultural institutions like the Wadsworth Atheneum, attend a Yard Goats baseball game, or explore nearby scenic spots like Elizabeth Park.
Find FHWA's Connecticut Federal-aid Highway Division at 450 Main Street in Hartford!
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Florida, as a state, is celebrated for its incredible outdoor recreation, contributing significantly to its residents' high quality of life and stimulating the economy. The state's economic landscape is vast, supported by major industries like healthcare, education, agriculture, and world-renowned entertainment hubs like Walt Disney World. Floridians enjoy a wealth of recreational activities, from relaxing on pristine beaches to exploring lush parks and springs, with local parks and public spaces often being the deciding factors for where people choose to live and work. The emphasis on accessible outdoor spaces not only boosts the economy but also fosters community cohesion and well-being.
Living in Tallahassee offers a unique blend of Southern charm and the vibrant energy of a college town, driven by Florida State University and Florida A&M. The city features a community-focused culture with high civic engagement, where neighbors genuinely support one another. In their free time, residents take advantage of the natural beauty of the Florida Panhandle, from hiking the shaded trails of Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park to kayaking at St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge. The local economy offers a wealth of opportunities, with top employers including the universities, government sectors, and growing small businesses.
Find FHWA's Florida Federal-aid Highway Division at 3500 Financial Plaza in Tallahassee!
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Taking a broader look at Puerto Rico, the island territory provides a nuanced lifestyle where tropical beauty meets a varied, modern economy. The territory’s economic drivers extend far beyond tourism and services to include significant high-tech manufacturing sectors. Life on the island is deeply tied to its rich cultural heritage, which is a fusion of traditions expressed through food (like mofongo and lechón), community gatherings, and ubiquitous music and dance like salsa and bomba. From exploring the El Yunque Rainforest and regional mountain coffee farms to celebrating lively traditions like the San Sebastián Street Festival, Puerto Rico offers an incredibly rich, sensory experience for its residents.
Living in San Juan offers a dynamic blend of old-world charm and modern Caribbean city life. As the most populous and economically significant city in the territory, the local economy is largely driven by its seaport, financial sectors, and a bustling tourism industry. When it comes to recreation and culture, residents have access to a vibrant, immersive environment—from the cobblestone streets and centuries-old forts of Old San Juan to the beaches of Isla Verde and Condado. The city is known for its energetic community life, filled with colorful festivals, music, and local art, ensuring there's always an opportunity to engage in the proverbial "Boricua" spirit.
Find FHWA's Puerto Rico Federal-aid Highway Division at 350 Avenida Carlos Chardon in San Juan!
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