Lead Civil Engineer (Hydraulics) - DIRECT HIRE

To meet the basic qualifications for this position, you must (1) meet the Mandatory Education Requirement for the series, (2) provide a copy of your transcripts or other applicable documentation for verification, AND (3) meet the specialized experience requirements. For the GS-15 on Experience, you must have at least one year of experience, equal or equivalent to the GS-14 grade level, which included: Experience serving as a national authority and expert of hydrologic and hydraulic engineering related to highway planning and location, design, construction and/or preservation; AND Experience leading and managing the activities of a staff of engineers and recognized national level experts; AND Experience in the interpretation and application of Federal laws, regulations, policies, and procedures relating to hydrologic and hydraulic engineering and the impact of related programs. Although you must meet the mandatory education requirement, you cannot qualify for GS-12 and above grades based solely on education, you must meet the specialized experience, which is cited above. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): Your qualifications will also be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas: Civil Engineering - Knowledge of the concepts, principles, theories, and methods required to plan, design, construct, operate, and maintain facilities such as buildings, transportation systems, water and sanitary systems, and other public works systems. Leadership - Influence, motivate, and challenge others; adapts leadership styles to a variety of situations. Hydraulic Engineering - Knowledge of the concepts, principles, theories, and methods applicable to analysis of the flow of fluids (open channel and pressure flow), estimation of river stages, and design of hydraulic structures, drainage structures, pipes, navigation facilities, reservoirs, locks, and dams. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. For additional information about applying to Federal positions, please click on the following link: https://www.opm.gov/frequently-asked-questions/employment-faq/federal-hiring/how-do-i-apply-for-federal-jobs/ All applicants must meet all qualification requirements by the closing date of this announcement. This position is in the Office of Infrastructure, Office of Bridges and Structures. You will serve as the Principal Hydraulics Engineer and Team Leader of the Hydraulics and Geotechnical Engineering Team. You will provide national leadership on hydrologic and hydraulic engineering and provide technical assistance in these areas for other FHWA offices, Federal agencies, State departments of transportation and other stakeholders.

Position Details

• Job Title: Lead Civil Engineer (Hydraulics) - DIRECT HIRE
• Company / Organisation: Federal Highway Administration
• Location: Multiple Locations
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Field / Industry: Software Development
• Work Arrangement: On-site or hybrid - Multiple Locations

About This Opportunity

This full-time opportunity at Federal Highway Administration is an excellent opening for experienced professionals in the field of software engineering and technology. The role is structured around an on-site or hybrid environment based in Multiple Locations and is designed for candidates who are ready to make a meaningful contribution from the moment they join.

Based in Multiple Locations, this role offers the opportunity to collaborate closely with a local team in a structured professional environment. Candidates currently based in the area or open to relocation are strongly encouraged to apply.

Whether you are an established practitioner in software engineering and technology or a highly skilled professional looking for your next challenge, this Lead Civil Engineer (Hydraulics) - DIRECT HIRE role offers the platform to apply your expertise in a real-world, results-oriented environment. Federal Highway Administration is looking for a candidate who can hit the ground running and add genuine value to the team.

Who Should Apply

This role is ideal for candidates who have a solid background in software engineering and technology and a demonstrable track record of delivering high-quality results. You should possess analytical thinking, attention to technical detail, and a methodical approach to problem-solving. Experience working with modern development tools, version control systems, and cloud platforms will be an advantage, though a commitment to continuous learning and professional development is equally valued.

Beyond technical or domain expertise, Federal Highway Administration is looking for someone who communicates clearly, collaborates effectively with colleagues and stakeholders, and takes ownership of their work from start to finish. If you thrive in a professional environment and are passionate about the opportunity to build reliable, scalable, and high-performing digital products, we encourage you to apply.

Key Competencies for This Role

Successful candidates for the Lead Civil Engineer (Hydraulics) - DIRECT HIRE position at Federal Highway Administration will typically demonstrate the following core competencies:

• Domain expertise - a strong foundation of knowledge and hands-on experience in software engineering and technology
• Problem-solving ability - the capacity to identify challenges, think critically, and implement practical solutions efficiently
• Communication skills - clear and professional communication with colleagues, stakeholders, and partners at all levels
• Self-management - strong time management and the ability to prioritise a varied workload while meeting deadlines
• Team collaboration - a collaborative and supportive approach to working alongside colleagues across departments or locations
• Adaptability - the ability to respond positively to change and thrive in a dynamic, evolving work environment

How to Apply

To apply for this Lead Civil Engineer (Hydraulics) - DIRECT HIRE position at Federal Highway Administration, click the "Apply Now" button on this page. You will be taken directly to the official application page where you can complete and submit your application.

Before applying, please ensure that your CV or résumé is fully up to date and clearly highlights your experience and accomplishments in software engineering and technology. If a cover letter is included or requested, tailor it specifically to this role and explain how your background, skills, and goals align with what Federal Highway Administration is looking for in a Lead Civil Engineer (Hydraulics) - DIRECT HIRE.

All applications for this role are processed directly by Federal Highway Administration. Career Nest facilitates the job discovery process and does not pre-screen or forward applications on behalf of employers. There are no fees for job seekers at any stage of the application process.

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