Highway Engineering Technician Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the modern era of rapid infrastructure development, the need for highway engineering technicians has never been more critical.

As transportation systems expand and evolve, there is an increasing demand for skilled professionals who can design, construct, and maintain our highways and roads.

But what exactly does a highway engineering technician do?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of highway engineering,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable highway engineering technician job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Highway Engineering Technician Duties and Responsibilities

Highway Engineering Technicians are responsible for various tasks related to the design, construction, and maintenance of highways.

Their primary role is to assist Highway Engineers and other professionals in their tasks, providing technical support and expertise.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Assisting in the planning and design of highway and transportation projects
• Conducting surveys and collecting data for the design and planning process
• Using Computer Aided Design (CAD) software to draft designs and plans
• Assisting in the preparation of cost estimates for highway construction and maintenance projects
• Inspecting highway construction sites to ensure compliance with design specifications and safety regulations
• Performing material testing and analysis to ensure the quality and durability of construction materials
• Monitoring and documenting construction progress and updating project schedules
• Assisting in traffic studies and analyzing traffic data
• Maintaining records and preparing reports on highway projects
• Collaborating with engineers, contractors, and other professionals in the field

 

Highway Engineering Technician Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a diligent and reliable Highway Engineering Technician to assist in planning, designing, and overseeing construction and maintenance of highway systems, bridges, and other infrastructure.

The responsibilities include conducting field surveys, preparing drawings, estimating costs, and ensuring all projects comply with government standards and regulations.

The ideal candidate should have a strong understanding of civil engineering principles, excellent problem-solving skills, and a keen eye for detail.

 

Responsibilities

• Assisting with the design, implementation and management of highway engineering projects.
• Conducting field surveys to collect data for project planning.
• Preparing drawings, specifications, and cost estimates for projects.
• Performing quality control checks on design calculations or drawings.
• Coordinating with team members and other professionals on project planning and execution.
• Ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations and standards.
• Providing technical advice on highway engineering matters to the team.
• Monitoring and inspecting construction work to ensure conformance to project plans.
• Maintaining project documentation and records.

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Highway Engineering Technician or a similar role.
• Knowledge of civil engineering principles and practices, especially in the area of highway construction and maintenance.
• Proficiency in using engineering software and equipment for designing and analyzing highway systems.
• Excellent technical drawing skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a team and independently.
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills.
• Associate degree or diploma in Civil Engineering or related field is preferred.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Highway Engineering Technician
• Work Environment: This role often requires field work at project sites, in addition to office work. Some travel may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Highway Engineer or Project Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $52,000 minimum to $76,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Highway Engineering Technician Do?

Highway Engineering Technicians are crucial members of civil engineering teams who work specifically on highway projects.

They are responsible for aiding in the planning, designing, and construction of highways, roads, bridges, and other infrastructure related to transportation.

They help determine the feasibility of potential projects by conducting field surveys, gathering data, and analyzing environmental impacts.

These technicians also assist in the creation of project blueprints and specifications, using computer-aided drafting tools.

They perform tests on construction materials, such as asphalt or concrete, to ensure they meet project specifications and safety standards.

They often work closely with Highway Engineers to monitor construction progress, verify the accuracy of project elements against plans, and manage documentation related to the project.

Highway Engineering Technicians also have a role in the maintenance and repair of highways, identifying areas of wear and tear and suggesting appropriate solutions.

Their job may require them to work outdoors, sometimes in difficult weather conditions.

With their technical knowledge and skills, Highway Engineering Technicians play an integral part in building and maintaining the transportation infrastructure that keeps traffic flowing smoothly.

 

Highway Engineering Technician Qualifications and Skills

Highway Engineering Technicians should have the skills and qualifications to effectively participate in the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of highway projects.

These can include:

• Technical knowledge in civil engineering principles and highway construction standards to effectively participate in design and construction tasks.
• Proficiency in using engineering software and equipment to create plans, schematics, and analyses related to highway projects.
• Strong mathematical and analytical skills to assist in the calculation and analysis of technical data, budgeting, and cost estimation.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively relay information to team members, stakeholders, and contractors, and to prepare comprehensive reports.
• Interpersonal skills to work efficiently with a team of engineers, planners, and construction workers, and to coordinate with government agencies and communities.
• Physical stamina and ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions and on construction sites.
• Understanding of safety regulations and procedures to ensure a safe work environment on construction sites.
• Problem-solving skills to identify, analyze, and resolve issues that may arise during the design, construction, and maintenance phases of a highway project.

 

Highway Engineering Technician Experience Requirements

Entry-level Highway Engineering Technicians typically require at least 1 to 2 years of relevant experience, often acquired through internships or part-time roles in civil engineering firms or governmental transportation departments.

In these roles, they gain hands-on experience in tasks such as conducting field surveys, collecting and analysing data, assisting in the design and planning of transportation projects, and aiding in the preparation of engineering documents.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience often have more advanced skills and knowledge, having had exposure to more complex tasks such as quality control, project management, and supervising construction activities.

They typically have experience in roles such as Associate Highway Engineer, Field Technician, or Civil Engineering Technician.

Professionals with over 5 years of experience in the field are generally considered for senior or managerial roles.

They are expected to have extensive experience in overseeing highway engineering projects, coordinating with multi-disciplinary teams, and ensuring compliance with safety standards and regulations.

Their background may include roles such as Senior Highway Engineering Technician or Transportation Engineering Supervisor.

Continued professional development, such as obtaining a professional engineering license or earning a master’s degree in civil engineering or a related field, can further enhance career prospects.

 

Highway Engineering Technician Education and Training Requirements

Highway Engineering Technicians typically have an associate’s degree in civil engineering technology or another related field.

These programs provide students with a solid foundation in technical and scientific principles and methods, preparing them for a career in highway construction, maintenance, and repair.

They cover a broad range of topics from soil mechanics to highway design and construction.

Although not always required, many employers prefer candidates with a certification from a recognized technical institution or professional body such as the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET).

This certification showcases the candidate’s competence and practical knowledge in the field of highway engineering.

In some cases, employers may require a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or a related field, especially for positions with more responsibility or that involve complex highway engineering projects.

Work experience in a related field is also often desirable.

This could be acquired through internships, co-op programs, or entry-level positions in civil engineering firms.

Continuous learning is important in this profession due to the rapid advancements in technology and engineering practices.

Therefore, many Highway Engineering Technicians pursue additional training and education throughout their career.

 

Highway Engineering Technician Salary Expectations

A Highway Engineering Technician earns an average salary of $55,000 (USD) per year.

The salary range can fluctuate significantly depending on factors such as level of experience, qualifications, specialization within the field, and the location of employment.

 

Highway Engineering Technician Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Highway Engineering Technician need?

Highway Engineering Technicians need strong technical skills to understand complex engineering designs and principles.

They should have a good understanding of civil engineering principles, construction, and design.

Proficiency in using CAD software and other industry-specific tools is also crucial.

They should also possess strong problem-solving skills, teamwork abilities, and attention to detail.

 

Do Highway Engineering Technicians need a degree?

Yes, a degree in civil engineering or a related field is typically required for a Highway Engineering Technician role.

However, some employers may also consider candidates with a degree in physical science or a related field.

In addition to a degree, they may also need certification or licensing depending on the regulations of the state or country they are operating in.

 

What should you look for in a Highway Engineering Technician resume?

Key things to look for in a Highway Engineering Technician’s resume are a degree in civil engineering or related field, relevant work experience, and specific skills such as proficiency in CAD software.

Also look for any certifications, licenses, or professional memberships related to the field.

Demonstrated experience in highway construction, maintenance, or inspection would be highly advantageous.

 

What qualities make a good Highway Engineering Technician?

A good Highway Engineering Technician is detail-oriented, able to comprehend complex engineering designs and concepts, and has a keen eye for spotting potential issues in highway design or construction.

Strong teamwork skills are also necessary as they often work in a collaborative environment.

They should also be comfortable working outdoors and in potentially challenging weather conditions, as the job often requires field work.

 

What are the daily duties of a Highway Engineering Technician?

On a typical day, a Highway Engineering Technician might start with reviewing project plans and specifications.

They may spend a portion of their day on-site, inspecting the quality of work and ensuring it aligns with design specifications.

They also communicate with project managers and engineers to provide updates and receive additional tasks as needed.

Other duties may include preparing sketches and tabulations, estimating costs, and maintaining project documentation.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we took a deep dive into the dynamic world of highway engineering technicians.

Surprise, surprise!

It’s not just about designing roads.

It’s about shaping the pathways of the future, one stretch of asphalt at a time.

With our comprehensive highway engineering technician job description template and practical examples, you’re fully equipped to take the next step.

But why stop there?

Go the extra mile with our job description generator. It’s your next stop for creating spot-on job listings or sharpening your resume to absolute perfection.

Remember:

Every stretch of highway is a part of the grand journey.

Let’s pave that future. Together.

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