What are the responsibilities and job description for the District Engineer, MnDOT District 2 - Engineer Princ Admin Transportation position at Minnesota Department of Transportation?
Working Title: District Engineer, MnDOT District 2
Job Class: Engineer Principal Administrative-Transportation
Agency: Transportation Dept
At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.
We’re seeking an experienced and forward-thinking engineering leader to guide MnDOT’s District Two operations across Northwestern Minnesota. In this role, you’ll set strategic direction, drive transportation program delivery, and champion continuous improvement across the region. You’ll align district goals with statewide plans, lead multimodal program development, and cultivate strong partnerships with legislators, local governments, Tribal governments, and community stakeholders. You’ll shape policy, support statewide initiatives, and ensure our workforce is strategically staffed to deliver high-quality, customer-focused services. This position also plays a key role in advancing innovative project delivery, including oversight of a design-build bridge project and a digital plan project, helping to position the agency for future success. If you’re energized by complex systems, collaborative leadership, and the opportunity to influence transportation outcomes at both regional and statewide levels, this is a chance to make a lasting impact.
This position provides executive leadership, strategic direction, managerial expertise and organizational direction for maintenance operations, planning, program delivery, and administrative functions so that public policy is developed, priorities are established, and programs are implemented in an integrated manner throughout the counties of Northwestern Minnesota. Major focus areas include:
Travel throughout District 2 will be required to meet with staff, partners, customers, and the public. Travel across the state is periodically required, including monthly division meetings. Occasional national travel is also required for training, conferences, and meetings with congressional members. Total travel would be up to 25% of the position’s time, 10% of travel includes overnight stays.
This position is located in Bemidji, Thief River Falls or Crookston Minnesota and has the flexibility to telework part-time, work a hybrid schedule, or work in the office. The incumbent is expected to spend up to half of their time working from the Bemidji office and will be required to make a telework arrangement with their supervisor. The incumbent will be expected to work in the office as determined by policy and discussion with their supervisor.
Minimum Qualifications
To qualify, applicants must be currently registered as a Professional Engineer with the Minnesota Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geo-science and Interior Design (AELSLAGID). (If obtaining licensure through Comity, a temporary permit from AELSLAGID must be provided to MnDOT HR prior to starting employment.)
AND
Possess three years of managerial experience overseeing a complex civil engineering team providing strategic direction, resource (budget and staff) management, and policy development.
If you meet the above requirements and wish to be considered further in the selection process, you must provide a cover letter summarizing your experience in the areas listed below. Attach your cover letter AND resume to the online application. If you do not submit the required information in your cover letter, your application will not be considered further.
REFERENCE/BACKGROUND CHECKS:
**Successful candidate must pass past-employer reference checks and criminal history check**
It is our policy that all candidates submit to a background investigation prior to employment. The background check may consist of the following components:
Select “Apply for Job” at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers.
Contact
If you have questions about this position, contact Harry Fitzgerald at harry.fitzgerald@state.mn.us
To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Harry Fitzgerald at harry.fitzgerald@state.mn.us.
Working together to improve the state we love.
What do Minnesota's State employees have in common?
As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.
Your benefits may include:
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS
Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.
Applicants With Disabilities
Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the job information line at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need.
Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) encourages participation in all its programs, services and activities and does not discriminate against qualified applicants with disabilities. Anyone who believes they may need a reasonable accommodation in order to fully participate in the job application, interview or selection processes may contact any agency official with whom applicant has contact in the processing of their employment application to request an accommodation. Applicants may also contact the MnDOT Affirmative Action office to request an accommodation by: E-mail: ADArequest.dot@state.mn.us; or by calling Janet Miller at 651/366-4720; or using MN Relay 711.
The MnDOT Reasonable Accommodation policy can be found at: http://www.dot.state.mn.us/policy/hr/hr009.html.
Job Class: Engineer Principal Administrative-Transportation
Agency: Transportation Dept
- Job ID: 93953
- Location: Bemidji
- Telework Eligible: Yes, this position is located in Bemidji, Thief River Falls or Crookston Minnesota and has the flexibility to telework part-time, work a hybrid schedule, or work in the office. The incumbent is expected to spend up to half of their time working from the Bemidji office and will be required to make a telework arrangement with their supervisor. The incumbent will be expected to work in the office as determined by policy and discussion with their supervisor.
- Full/Part Time: Full-Time
- Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
- Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
- Date Posted: 04/30/2026
- Closing Date: 05/29/2026
- Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Transportation Dept / Transportation-Managerial
- Division/Unit: District 2B - Crookston / Resource Manager
- Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift
- Days of Work: Monday - Friday
- Travel Required: Yes, please see the job summary below for details.
- Salary Range: $56.68 - $81.19 / hourly; $118,347 - $169,524 / annually
- Classified Status: Classified
- Bargaining Unit/Union: 220 - Manager/Unrep
- FLSA Status: Exempt - Executive
- Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: Yes
At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.
We’re seeking an experienced and forward-thinking engineering leader to guide MnDOT’s District Two operations across Northwestern Minnesota. In this role, you’ll set strategic direction, drive transportation program delivery, and champion continuous improvement across the region. You’ll align district goals with statewide plans, lead multimodal program development, and cultivate strong partnerships with legislators, local governments, Tribal governments, and community stakeholders. You’ll shape policy, support statewide initiatives, and ensure our workforce is strategically staffed to deliver high-quality, customer-focused services. This position also plays a key role in advancing innovative project delivery, including oversight of a design-build bridge project and a digital plan project, helping to position the agency for future success. If you’re energized by complex systems, collaborative leadership, and the opportunity to influence transportation outcomes at both regional and statewide levels, this is a chance to make a lasting impact.
This position provides executive leadership, strategic direction, managerial expertise and organizational direction for maintenance operations, planning, program delivery, and administrative functions so that public policy is developed, priorities are established, and programs are implemented in an integrated manner throughout the counties of Northwestern Minnesota. Major focus areas include:
- Business and strategic planning
- Department-wide collaboration
- Organizational evaluation
- Change management
- Asset management, capital investment planning, and budgeting
Travel throughout District 2 will be required to meet with staff, partners, customers, and the public. Travel across the state is periodically required, including monthly division meetings. Occasional national travel is also required for training, conferences, and meetings with congressional members. Total travel would be up to 25% of the position’s time, 10% of travel includes overnight stays.
This position is located in Bemidji, Thief River Falls or Crookston Minnesota and has the flexibility to telework part-time, work a hybrid schedule, or work in the office. The incumbent is expected to spend up to half of their time working from the Bemidji office and will be required to make a telework arrangement with their supervisor. The incumbent will be expected to work in the office as determined by policy and discussion with their supervisor.
Minimum Qualifications
To qualify, applicants must be currently registered as a Professional Engineer with the Minnesota Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geo-science and Interior Design (AELSLAGID). (If obtaining licensure through Comity, a temporary permit from AELSLAGID must be provided to MnDOT HR prior to starting employment.)
AND
Possess three years of managerial experience overseeing a complex civil engineering team providing strategic direction, resource (budget and staff) management, and policy development.
If you meet the above requirements and wish to be considered further in the selection process, you must provide a cover letter summarizing your experience in the areas listed below. Attach your cover letter AND resume to the online application. If you do not submit the required information in your cover letter, your application will not be considered further.
- Leadership and Management: Experience leading and managing program delivery and maintenance functions with trust, transparency, and accountability; and experience leading teams and organizational change.
- Technical Expertise: Experience demonstrating a broad understanding of the technical areas affecting MnDOT’s district and division engineering and maintenance activities, including an understanding of and support for project management.
- Fiscal and Human Resources Management: Experience using resources effectively and implementing diverse service delivery models to achieve work objectives.
- Policymaking and Strategic Direction/Initiatives: Experience developing and implementing innovative policies, practices and strategic direction and initiatives; and experience with the legislative process.
- Relationship Building: Experience collaborating with a wide variety of stakeholders, including building and maintaining effective working relationships with internal and external partners.
REFERENCE/BACKGROUND CHECKS:
**Successful candidate must pass past-employer reference checks and criminal history check**
It is our policy that all candidates submit to a background investigation prior to employment. The background check may consist of the following components:
- SEMA4 Records Check
- Criminal History Check
- Employment Reference Check
- Education/License Verification
- Driver's License Check
Select “Apply for Job” at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers.
Contact
If you have questions about this position, contact Harry Fitzgerald at harry.fitzgerald@state.mn.us
To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Harry Fitzgerald at harry.fitzgerald@state.mn.us.
Working together to improve the state we love.
What do Minnesota's State employees have in common?
- A sense of purpose in their work
- Connection with their coworkers and communities
- Opportunities for personal and professional growth
As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.
Your benefits may include:
- Paid vacation and sick leave
- 12 paid holidays each year
- Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans
- Fertility care, including IVF
- Diabetes care
- Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children
- 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children
- Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years)
- Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death
- Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury
- Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care
- Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being
- Training, classes, and professional development
- Tuition reimbursement
- Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov)
- A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance
- Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues
- Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS
Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.
Applicants With Disabilities
Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the job information line at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need.
Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) encourages participation in all its programs, services and activities and does not discriminate against qualified applicants with disabilities. Anyone who believes they may need a reasonable accommodation in order to fully participate in the job application, interview or selection processes may contact any agency official with whom applicant has contact in the processing of their employment application to request an accommodation. Applicants may also contact the MnDOT Affirmative Action office to request an accommodation by: E-mail: ADArequest.dot@state.mn.us; or by calling Janet Miller at 651/366-4720; or using MN Relay 711.
The MnDOT Reasonable Accommodation policy can be found at: http://www.dot.state.mn.us/policy/hr/hr009.html.
Salary : $118,347 - $169,524