Horizontal Construction Engineer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of modern infrastructure, the focus on horizontal construction engineers is more critical than ever.

As infrastructure development progresses, the demand for skilled professionals who can plan, execute, and maintain our physical structures continues to grow.

But let’s delve deeper: What exactly is required from a horizontal construction engineer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager crafting the perfect candidate profile,
• Or simply interested in the inner workings of horizontal construction engineering,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we’re presenting a customizable horizontal construction engineer job description template, designed for convenient posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s get started.

Horizontal Construction Engineer Duties and Responsibilities

Horizontal Construction Engineers perform a variety of tasks related to the construction and maintenance of infrastructure such as roads, bridges, airfields, and other projects.

They utilize heavy construction equipment to complete these tasks efficiently.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Analyzing construction plans and blueprints to understand the scope of the project
• Operating heavy machinery and equipment, such as bulldozers, backhoes, excavators, and graders to move earth and materials
• Building and maintaining infrastructure such as roads, bridges, airfields, etc.
• Assisting in the preparation of construction sites by clearing obstacles and hazards
• Assessing the conditions of the worksite and making adjustments to plans as necessary
• Performing basic maintenance on equipment to ensure it functions properly
• Ensuring safety regulations are met at all times during work
• Coordinating with other construction professionals to ensure project objectives are met

 

Horizontal Construction Engineer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are searching for a dedicated, proficient horizontal construction engineer to plan, manage and oversee construction projects.

The horizontal construction engineer’s responsibilities include using computer-aided design software, liaising with clients, and overseeing assigned projects.

You will also be expected to analyze survey reports, maps, and other data to plan projects, establish construction limits and the suitable construction sequence.

Our ideal candidate is comfortable with complex mathematical calculations and has a strong understanding of construction materials, machinery, and methods.

 

Responsibilities

• Analyze survey reports, long range plans, maps, and other data to plan projects.
• Prepare and present cost estimates, contract specifications, and design and construction schedules.
• Manage the repair, maintenance, and replacement of public and private infrastructure.
• Inspect project sites to monitor progress and ensure conformance to design specifications and safety standards.
• Direct construction, operations, and maintenance activities at project site.
• Utilize design software to prepare engineering and design documents.
• Perform or oversee soil testing to determine the adequacy and strength of foundations.
• Comply with federal, state, and local legal requirements by studying existing and new legislation and ensuring adherence to requirements.

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a horizontal construction engineer or similar role.
• Ability to work with computer-aided design (CAD) software.
• Excellent knowledge of design and visualizations software such as AutoCAD.
• Advanced MS Office skills.
• Familiarity with rules, regulations, best practices and performance standards.
• Ability to work with multiple discipline projects.
• Project management and supervision skills.
• BS degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering or related field.

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Horizontal Construction Engineer
• Work Environment: Typically office setting, but may require frequent visits to construction sites. Some travel may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Project Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $80,000 minimum to $120,000 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 Horizontal Construction Engineer Do?

Horizontal Construction Engineers primarily work for construction or engineering firms, often tasked with the construction and maintenance of structures and facilities that lie horizontally, such as roads, runways, tunnels, and bridges.

Their main duty is to operate heavy machinery such as bulldozers, graders, and cranes to move earth and materials for construction projects.

They also handle tasks like leveling earth for runways and roadbeds, or digging for water and gas lines and sewer pipes.

Part of their job is to prepare sites for construction, which includes setting up and using equipment to clear land, removing obstacles, and leveling the site.

They are also responsible for installing and maintaining temporary and permanent traffic control devices.

These engineers work closely with project managers and other engineers to ensure that all construction is done according to plans and specifications.

They also monitor projects to ensure safety standards and protocols are adhered to.

Horizontal Construction Engineers may also be involved in the analysis of project costs and the preparation of cost estimates.

This involves performing quality control checks to ensure the work meets all necessary standards and regulations.

Additionally, they may be called upon to perform routine maintenance on the heavy equipment they operate to ensure it remains in good working condition.

 

Horizontal Construction Engineer Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Horizontal Construction Engineer should possess skills and qualifications that align with the job role, such as:

• Technical skills to operate various heavy construction equipment such as bulldozers, cranes, excavators, and road graders.
• Planning and organization skills to prepare and follow construction plans and blueprints, ensuring that projects stay on schedule and within budget.
• Problem-solving skills to quickly identify and resolve issues that may arise during the construction process.
• Physical stamina and strength to perform tasks in different weather conditions and terrains, and for long hours.
• Mathematical skills to perform various calculations required in the construction process, including measurements, area, and volume calculations.
• Communication skills to effectively interact with team members, supervisors, and other stakeholders in the project.
• Attention to detail to ensure the correct measurements and alignments in construction projects.
• Safety awareness to ensure that all activities are carried out in a manner that minimizes the risk of injury and accidents.

 

Horizontal Construction Engineer Experience Requirements

Entry-level candidates for Horizontal Construction Engineer roles typically possess a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or a related field, having gained practical experience via internships or cooperative education initiatives during their studies.

They should have a broad understanding of topics such as geotechnical engineering, structural engineering, and construction materials.

Candidates with 1-3 years of experience may have worked in roles such as Assistant Engineer or Junior Engineer, where they gained hands-on experience in the design, planning, and execution of construction projects.

Those with more than 3 years of experience have likely honed their skills in project management, and have become adept at using complex engineering software.

They may have also gained experience in supervising construction sites, ensuring the projects are carried out according to plan, within budget and meeting safety standards.

Candidates with over 5 years of experience may have held leadership roles like Senior Engineer or Project Manager.

These individuals possess substantial experience in overseeing large-scale construction projects, from initiation to completion.

They may also have experience in mentoring junior engineers and managing teams.

All Horizontal Construction Engineers should ideally possess a Professional Engineer (PE) license, which requires a degree from an accredited engineering program, relevant work experience, and passing scores on two state exams.

 

Horizontal Construction Engineer Education and Training Requirements

A Horizontal Construction Engineer typically requires a high school diploma or its equivalent as a basic educational requirement.

They must also complete a 12-week comprehensive training program, which includes both classroom and field training.

This is often achieved through the Army Corps of Engineers or other military branches.

During this training, they learn the necessary skills to operate heavy construction equipment such as bulldozers, cranes, graders, and other machines used in horizontal construction.

In addition to this, they must possess strong mechanical skills and a good understanding of construction principles and techniques.

Some positions may require a degree or certification in civil engineering or a related field.

This provides the engineer with a deeper understanding of the principles of construction, project management, and engineering.

Continuous on-the-job training is important to stay updated with the latest technologies and equipment used in the field.

Furthermore, a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) may also be necessary as it allows the engineer to legally operate large, heavy vehicles.

Safety training and certifications are also critical in this role due to the potentially hazardous nature of construction sites.

This could include Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) certifications.

Experience in the field, especially with operating heavy machinery, is highly desired and can make a candidate more competitive.

 

Horizontal Construction Engineer Salary Expectations

A Horizontal Construction Engineer can expect to earn an average salary of $62,399 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can vary based on factors such as the level of experience, educational qualifications, location, and the organization for which they work.

 

Horizontal Construction Engineer Job Description FAQs

What skills are required for a Horizontal Construction Engineer?

A Horizontal Construction Engineer should have a strong understanding of construction principles and practices, with a specific focus on horizontal structures like roads, airfields, and bridges.

They need to have excellent analytical skills to interpret plans and blueprints.

Good physical condition is also important as the job often involves heavy lifting and operating large machinery.

They also need to have strong problem-solving skills, communication abilities, and teamwork skills.

 

Do Horizontal Construction Engineers need a degree?

While some positions may only require a high school diploma or equivalent, many employers prefer Horizontal Construction Engineers to have a degree in Civil Engineering or a related field.

In addition, certifications in operating heavy machinery or a commercial driver’s license (CDL) may be required or preferred.

 

What should you look for in a Horizontal Construction Engineer resume?

When reviewing resumes, look for a background in civil engineering or construction, along with any relevant certifications.

Experience with specific machinery or construction types, such as bridges or roads, can be a bonus.

A good candidate should also showcase their ability to work in a team and solve problems.

 

What qualities make a good Horizontal Construction Engineer?

A good Horizontal Construction Engineer should have strong analytical abilities to assess and interpret construction plans and blueprints.

They should be physically fit to handle the demands of the job and be comfortable working in a team environment.

Good communication skills are also important, as they need to work closely with other construction professionals and sometimes liaise with clients or regulatory bodies.

 

Is it difficult to hire Horizontal Construction Engineers?

The difficulty of hiring a Horizontal Construction Engineer can depend on various factors such as the specificity of the project, the location, and the current state of the job market.

You may face challenges if you are looking for very specific experience or skills.

However, offering competitive salaries and benefits, as well as opportunities for professional development, can help attract qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve paved the way to understanding what it truly means to be a horizontal construction engineer.

Surprise, surprise!

It’s not just about laying concrete.

It’s about shaping the physical world, one construction project at a time.

With our intuitive horizontal construction engineer job description template and real-world examples, you’re fully equipped to make your next career move.

But why stop there?

Dig further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to precision-crafted job listings or fine-tuning your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every construction project is a part of a broader vision.

Let’s build that future. Together.

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