Transportation Engineer Associate - Manchester RCE

Job Description Join our Davenport Resident Construction team as a Transportation Engineer Associate and help ensure Iowa’s infrastructure is built to last. Whether you’ve already earned your bachelor’s degree or will be graduating within the next 10 months, this entry-level engineering role offers a strong start to your career. Working under the guidance of experienced Professional Engineers, you’ll gain hands‑on experience in construction project management while collaborating closely with contractors, inspectors, and internal teams.

You’ll help maintain quality, safety, and efficiency across a wide range of roadway and bridge projects, all while developing the professional expertise needed to progress toward Professional Engineer licensure. If you thrive in dynamic field environments, enjoy solving problems, and value meaningful public service, this role offers a meaningful path forward. As part of the Iowa Department of Transportation, you’ll contribute directly to our Mission - Making Lives Better Through Transportation.

To support this mission, the person selected for this position will demonstrate behaviors grounded in our five core values:
Safety First, People Matter, Customer Focused, Servant Leadership, and Integrity Without Exception. These values guide how we serve Iowans, steward public resources, and support one another and they are at the heart of the work you’ll do every day.
Location: Manchester, Iowa
Work Schedule: Core hours are Monday–Friday, 6:45 AM to 3:30 PM. Some night work, weekends, holidays, overtime, and varied shifts may be required. Travel and fieldwork in outdoor conditions are part of this role. As a Transportation Engineer Associate, your responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

• Lead inspections and coordination of complex roadway and construction projects to ensure full compliance with contract specifications.
• Capture and report project progress with precision, producing daily diaries, inspection reports, summaries, and accurate payment measurements.
• Drive project coordination meetings, bringing together contractors, DOT staff, utilities, and key stakeholders to keep work moving smoothly.
• Evaluate and verify contract documents, plans, and technical materials to ensure accuracy, completeness, and constructability.
• Deliver technical guidance to the RCE and take ownership of critical project administration functions.
• Execute thorough on‑site inspections in active construction zones and all weather conditions, maintaining safety and attention to detail.
• Perform robust data collection and physical testing, using measurement and testing equipment safely and effectively (including lifting up to 65 lbs).
• Facilitate seamless coordination with contractors, utilities, and state/local partners throughout construction phases.
• Spot issues early, recommend solutions, and make timely decisions to keep projects on track.

• Must maintain a valid driver’s license.
• Engineer certificate from the Iowa State Board of Engineering Examiners must be obtained within 24 months of hire.
• Professional Engineer licensure required within 6 years for continued employment in this classification.
• Must obtain and maintain certifications including Agg Technician, PCC 1 & 2, HMA 1, and Erosion Control Technician.

• Competitive pay and benefits package including health, dental, flexible spending, and life insurance
• Insurance benefits start the first month following 30 days of employment and costs can be reviewed here.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development.
• Paid time off effective immediately - biweekly vacation, separate sick leave, accruals rollover on a yearly basis, and 9 paid holidays per year.
• Iowa Public Employee Retirement System (IPERS) Retirement Package with employer match
• Optional 401A plan with employer contributions.
• Employee Discount Programs from a variety of vendors (vision, cellular, fitness, recreation, season passes, travel, counseling; legal, financial).