Hwy Construction Technician I​/II - Columbus

Job Overview

The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) is seeking a dedicated and hardworking team player to join us in enhancing the quality of life for Nebraskans by building and maintaining a convenient, safe, and innovative statewide transportation system. The position is a Hwy Construction Technician I/II with a pay rate of $19.941 per hour for Technician I and $22.938 per hour for Technician II upon promotion.

Candidates who hold a CDL and perform CDL functions regularly will receive hourly pay differentials: $1 above base after 1 year, another $1 after 3 years, and another $1 after 5 years of continuous service.

• Perform inspection duties on highway construction projects, including preliminary surveying, construction surveying, ROW staking, and sampling/testing of construction materials.
• Document contractor’s daily work related to highway construction.
• Operate snow removal equipment and perform snow removal activities as needed.
• Perform survey duties and/or material testing and other duties as assigned.
• Work varying hours outdoors on highway construction projects, including nights, evenings, weekends, and emergencies.

• Minimum age 18 years with a valid driver’s license.
• For Technician II: experience in surveying, materials testing, field inspections, or coursework/training in those areas; or an associate’s degree in civil engineering technology or related field.
• Must possess or obtain a Class A or B CDL within 90 days of hire; cost will be paid by the department.
• Ability to safely lift up to 35 pounds frequently and occasionally up to 60 pounds, with assistance for heavier loads.
• Regular and reliable attendance required; may need overnight travel and work outside scheduled hours for emergencies.
• Must pass NDOT Math, Highway Plan Reading, and Bridge Plan reading courses or meet degree requirement for promotion to Technician II, typically completed within first six months.

• Strong oral and written communication; ability to read and interpret plans and specifications.
• Proficiency in surveying, materials testing, construction inspection, equipment operation, and use of relevant software (Site Manager, GEOPAK, Micro Station).
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills.
• Self‑motivated, able to work with minimal supervision, and maintain high integrity.
• Trainable and able to learn new technologies and processes.
• Ability to work safely and follow safe practices in outdoor temperature extremes and high‑speed traffic environments.

• State‑matched retirement contribution of 156%.
• 13 paid holidays.
• Generous leave accruals beginning immediately.
• Military leave.
• Tuition reimbursement program; partner Nebraska community colleges.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF).
• 79% employer‑paid health insurance plans.
• Dental and vision insurance plans.
• Employer‑paid $20,000 life insurance policy.
• Opportunities for career advancement within the largest and most diverse employer in the State.
• Training and development based on career aspirations.
• Job security and stability, even during economic hardship.
• Employee assistance program.

The State of Nebraska values our teammates as well as a supportive environment that strives to promote diversity, inclusion, and belonging. We recruit, hire, train, and promote in all job classifications and at all levels without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, marital status or genetics.