Maintenance Chief-Lewistown

Maintenance Chief – Lewistown )

Position Overview

• The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) seeks an executive-level leader to oversee all maintenance activities in the Lewistown Maintenance Division.
• Primary responsibilities include long‑range planning, program management, implementation of new technologies, roadway improvement and repair, winter maintenance, facilities management, equipment oversight, disaster and emergency response, and environmental program management.
• The role leads a team of approximately 67 full‑time equivalents and governs a seasonal staff of 130–150 personnel.
• Reports directly to the Maintenance Division Administrator.

Key Responsibilities

• Administer roadway improvement, repair, and maintenance projects while ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations.
• Oversee regulatory permitting, automated road monitoring, and winter maintenance operations.
• Manage facilities, equipment, and contract administration, including procurement and vendor performance.
• Lead disaster and emergency response initiatives, including homeland security coordination and hazardous materials management.
• Collaborate with land acquisition, environmental, and public involvement teams for large‑scale projects.
• Develop and implement performance metrics, safety programs, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Engineering Technology, Construction Technology, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in highway maintenance and construction, including project and contract management.
• At least three (3) years of supervisory experience.
• Knowledge of highway maintenance concepts, civil engineering principles, state and federal regulations (AASHTO, FHWA, ASTM), and the Montana Materials Manual.
• Strong communication, leadership, and problem‑solving skills.

Special Requirements

• Extensive travel (≈25,000 miles annually) across Montana with frequent overnight stays.
• On‑site direction of maintenance engineering and emergency response at construction sites.
• Exposure to extreme weather, hazardous materials, and high‑risk environments; requires comprehensive safety training.
• Capability to handle high‑pressure situations, including conflict mediation and critical decision‑making during disasters.

Benefits

• Culture of public service with a strong work/life balance.
• Potential hybrid remote work arrangement.
• Access to Montana Health Centers, low‑cost clinics, and state retirement plans.
• Health insurance, paid leave, holidays, and a voluntary employee benefit association (VEBA).

Equal Employment Opportunity

• The Montana Department of Transportation is an equal opportunity employer. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, people with disabilities, veterans, and disabled veterans are encouraged to apply.
• Disabilities may request assistance or an alternative application format by contacting Human Resources.
• Montana is a non‑discriminatory state for protected classes.

Additional Information

• Driver’s records will be verified prior to employment.
• Compliance with Mont. Admin. R. 2.6.201 and MDT Policy #6.03.001 is required.
• Position is covered by a VEBA group; participation is mandatory.
• MDT participates in E‑Verify for employment eligibility confirmation.

Job Details

• Salary: $ per year
• Telework Eligibility: Not eligible
• Shift: Day job
• Travel: Yes, 10 % of the time
• Primary
  
  Location:
  
  Lewistown, MT
• Posting Dates: Posted Jun 26, 2026;
  Closing Jul 11, 2026
• Number of Openings: 1

Application Process

• Submit resume and cover letter through the official state application system before the closing date.
• Ensure all materials are categorized as “Relevant.”

Contact Information

Human Resource Generalist, Lori Edgar – ledgar