Digital Project Construction Unit Head (Professional Engineer II)

This role leads the Digital Project Construction Unit within NDOT's new Digital Project Delivery Division, overseeing the conversion of 3D design models into construction-ready formats, providing statewide technical leadership and training for construction digital delivery technologies, and supervising the UAS (drone) program. The position bridges design and field operations, ensuring seamless data handoffs and supporting field troubleshooting and in-progress inspections.

Responsibilities

• Model Conversion & Handoff Integration:
• Bridge Design to Field: Take raw 3D design models (e.g., OpenRoads, Civil 3D) and extract, cleanse, and reconstruct data into construction-ready formats in Trimble (or other) technologies and Automated Machine Guidance (AMG) surfaces.
• Resolve Geometric Anomalies: Fix model discrepancies and align design attributes to ensure seamless, lossless data handoffs to field technology.
• Data Schema Standardization: Translate complex design metadata into standardized field asset schemas to guarantee data integrity during construction execution.
• Technology Training & Hardware Deployment:
• Statewide Technical Lead: Serve as the subject matter expert and training lead for construction digital delivery technologies and established SOPs. Configure construction model and inspection technologies per NDOT and DPD requirements and workflows.
• Curriculum & Hands-On Training: Design, update, and deliver training curricula and documentation for Project Managers, Field Engineers, Inspectors, and external consultants.
• Field Tech Training: Train district personnel on the practical mechanics of DPD processes and tools; 3D models, Trimble rovers/hardware, and mobile inspection applications used on job sites.
• Field Troubleshooting & In-Progress Inspection Support:
• Advanced On-Site Support: Participate in field reviews, construction meetings, and in-progress inspections to support digital workflows.
• Real-Time Issue Resolution: Troubleshoot model discrepancies and hardware/software synchronization issues encountered by field engineers using construction tech solutions.
• Feedback Loop: Gather direct feedback from contractors and inspectors to continuously optimize model-building workflows for downstream construction use.
• Technical Analytics & Document Preparation:
• Pilot Emerging Tech: Evaluate and test emerging civil construction software, Trimble technologies, hardware tools, and data schemas.
• Workflow Optimization: Conduct pilot testing and provide engineering insights and recommendations to higher-level managers regarding software configurations, workflow bottlenecks, and technical roadblocks.
• Implementation Strategies: Evaluate digital data sources and technologies to prepare technical project reports and statewide implementation strategies.
• NDOT UAS (Drone) Program Supervision:
• Program Oversight: Supervise the NDOT Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) team, managing operational scaling, pilot workflows, equipment procurement, and maintenance.
• Workflow Integration: Collaborate across DPD, key stakeholders, and vendors to define drone use cases and incorporate aerial deliverables (photogrammetry/LiDAR) into Digital Delivery workflows.
• SOP Development: Participate in the technical evaluation of drone deliverables and establishment of SOPs to operationalize drone workflows statewide.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Professional Engineer II: Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline and one year of experience performing professional level engineering assignments. Must possess a Professional Engineer (P.E.) license at the time of application and be licensed by the Nebraska Board of Engineers and Architects at time of employment or be able to obtain such license within 90 days of employment.
• Professional Engineer I: Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline. Must possess a Professional Engineer (P.E.) license at the time of application and be licensed by the Nebraska Board of Engineers and Architects at the time of employment or be able to obtain such license within 90 days of employment.
• Engineer: Bachelor’s degree in an Engineering discipline. Must pass the Fundamentals of Engineering Exam (FE) within one year of employment.
• Engineer Classification Only - Degree must be from an EAC/ABET or CEAB(Canada)-accredited engineering program OR meet the NCEES Engineering Education Standard.
• Must have a valid driver's license or ability to provide independent authorized transportation.
• Travel including limited overnight travel is required.
• Must be able to safely move, drag, and lift 35 pounds frequently (without assistance).
• Must be able to climb, bend, stoop, walk long distances, work in outdoor temperature extremes.
• Regular and reliable attendance is also required.

Nice to have

• Three years of progressively responsible experience leading and managing engineering functions.
• Demonstrated experience using total quality management principles and decision making.

Benefits

• At NDOT, we provide the best possible transportation system for the movement of people and goods that promotes safety, mobility, and economic growth which enhances the quality of life for all Nebraskans. NDOT teammates enjoy a friendly and supportive work environment, healthy work/life balance, job security and stability throughout their careers, generous paid time off, comprehensive health benefits, tuition reimbursement, and a state-matched retirement contribution of 156%.
• We offer a comprehensive package of pay, benefits, paid time off, retirement and professional development opportunities to help you get the most out of your career and life. Your paycheck is just part of your total compensation.
• Check out all that the State of Nebraska has to offer! Benefit eligibility may vary by position, agency and employment status. For more information on benefits, please visit: https://statejobs.nebraska.gov/index.html#benefits