Engineering Program Manager

• Location: Topeka Administration Building
• Salary Range: $99,468 - $121,014 Annual
• Posted: Jul 17, 2026

Definition and Examples of Work

• Supervise the preparation of plans, specifications, and estimating in the design and construction phases of KTA projects.
• Supervise, inspect and ensure quality control and quality assurance of construction projects.
• Control construction projects by tracking quantities and determine the compliance to plans and specifications.
• Prepare and administer construction contracts.
• Coordinate and relocate project utilities and ensure storm water and waste water compliance is met.
• May occasionally perform basic surveying activities (elevation/staking) during construction projects.
• Prepare permit applications and manage permitting process to ensure compliance with environmental permitting requirements.
• Coordinate with state, county and local governments and related agencies, including right of way acquisition.
• Resolve conflicts related to people, drawings, specifications, pay estimates within projects.
• Analyze engineering problems and design smaller scale/less complex projects.
• Coordinate bridge inspection program.
• Manage pavement and conduct pavement condition analysis.
• Provide engineering support services for other KTA departments.
• Represent KTA at meetings and communicate regularly with stakeholders and vendors, including contractors, consultants, regulatory officials, governing bodies, internal KTA staff, and the public.
• Respond to incidents involving KTA infrastructure damage to assess and determine structural safety.
• Assign project personnel to specific phases or aspects of construction projects.
• Provide direction and feedback to Project Engineers and Project Coordinators.
• Additional duties may be assigned as business needs require.

Latitude and Impact of Position

This position works independently and as part of a team, including providing input and problem solving with others to complete tasks. May provide input regarding hiring and other employee status changes. Decision making is typically done independently in regard to decisions affecting the individual/department work tasks, with occasional decisions requiring supervisor approval. Makes purchase decisions within budgetary limitations and makes decisions related to monetary transactions, write-offs, waiver of charges, and contractual commitments.

Participates in short and long-term planning. Uses negotiation, persuasion and diplomacy with internal customers and external stakeholders and vendors. Successful completion of job tasks impacts operating costs, internal system, customer satisfaction, external company image and liability.

The work environment described here is representative of the general work environment for the position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Time split between an office environment and outdoors with exposure to all weather elements.
• Outdoor work environment includes work near interstate traffic and civil construction equipment, which includes frequent exposure to moderate noise levels.
• Personal protective equipment required frequently.
• Occasionally required to work underground, in enclosed, confined spaces and in high places.

QUALIFICATION

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Extensive knowledge of civil engineering practices, methods and materials used in design and construction of projects, including highway, bridge and road design.
• Knowledge of environmental and other regulatory requirements.
• Ability to manage and de-escalate conflicts.
• Ability to administer engineering projects from conception through the design and construction.
• Understanding of theory and design of structures and highways.
• Ability to prepare and read plans and specifications.
• Ability to use engineering tools and drafting equipment and programs.
• Excellent communication and public speaking skills (verbal and written).
• Ability to negotiate with and persuade others.
• Ability to use small hand tools, shovel, level, tape, wheel, rod and other surveying / measuring equipment.
• Proficient in use of computers with Microsoft Windows and Office Suite and bridge and road design software and project management and inspection software.
• Familiar with GIS and mapping software.
• Familiar with general office equipment, telephones, printers, etc.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Experience with CAD software (Microstation)
• Survey equipment

Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or related degree.
• Four years' experience in construction and design of civil engineering projects.

Certification, License, Registration

• State of Kansas Professional Engineering license (required)
• Required continuing education to maintain licensure in good standing
• Valid driver license and good driving record.

Physical requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable…