Resident Engineer (Transportation)

About the role

This position manages construction administration for major transportation and infrastructure projects within NYSDOT Region 8 in the Hudson Valley. Project delivery is ensured through contract administration, issue resolution, and adherence to job site safety standards.

Software engineers turn product ideas into working code. Engineers work in small teams, review each other's work, and ship in small batches. Most teams follow agile practices such as sprints and daily standups. Engineers also write tests, fix bugs, and improve performance. The field values clear communication as much as technical skill. Engineers spend part of every week on planning, code review, and debugging, not just writing new code. The ability to explain a technical decision in plain words separates strong engineers from the rest.

Key facts

What you'll do

Construction operations on active transportation projects are managed, and inspection staff are supervised to maintain project standards. Primary communication with NYSDOT, contractors, utility companies, and project stakeholders is maintained to align expectations and resolve needs. Contractor performance, construction progress, and project schedules are monitored continuously to track milestones. Project meetings are led to communicate construction progress, risks, and updates to all participants. Job site safety is promoted, and compliance with NYSDOT requirements is ensured at all times.

Requirements

The posting states a minimum of 25 years of experience.

A Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or a related field is preferred for this role. A Professional Engineer (PE) license in New York is strongly preferred for added authority. A minimum of 10+ years of construction inspection and construction management experience is required. Previous Resident Engineer or Assistant Resident Engineer experience on NYSDOT projects, preferably within Region 8, is required. Strong knowledge of NYSDOT specifications, contract administration, and construction documentation is required. Experience with roadway, bridge, drainage, utility, and traffic control projects is required to handle diverse infrastructure. Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills are required to manage teams and stakeholders. A valid driver's license and the ability to travel to project sites as needed are required for site visits.

Practical notes

This role is based in the Hudson Valley region and supports NYSDOT Region 8 projects. Typical interview steps

Hiring for engineering roles usually starts with a recruiter screen, followed by one or two technical rounds. Candidates often solve a coding problem, discuss past projects, and answer system design questions. Some loops include a take-home task. Final rounds typically cover team fit and give candidates a chance to ask questions. Interviewers look for how you break down an unfamiliar problem, not just whether you reach the answer. Practicing a few problems aloud and reviewing your own past projects are the best preparation.

Good to know

Professionals in this field typically manage complex infrastructure projects and coordinate closely with public agencies. Work often involves tools related to construction administration and contract compliance. These roles demand strong attention to safety standards and contract specifications. Successful performance depends on clear communication with stakeholders and public entities. Travel between project sites is common in this type of role.

Career growth

Engineering careers usually progress from individual contributor to senior, staff, and principal levels. Some engineers move into management and lead teams of five to twenty people. Others stay on the technical track. Growth follows demonstrated impact, not tenure alone. A typical engineering ladder has clear levels with defined expectations for scope, quality, and mentorship. Moving up usually requires owning outcomes end to end rather than completing assigned tickets.