Graduate Engineer and Land Surveyor Program
Graduate Engineers and Land Surveyors group photo taken in Bemidji, MN at the Fall 2023 Grad Meeting
As a trainee in this program, you'll have the opportunity to expand your technical, managerial and human relations skills through on-the-job training and face time with industry professionals. By doing so, you will gain a broader understanding of MnDOT's organizational goals, policies and personnel.
About
The Graduate Engineer and Land Surveyor Program is designed to provide civil, construction, environmental, geo, or structural engineering and land surveying graduates with practical work experience through formal job rotations within various engineering and land surveying sections at MnDOT. While on rotation, trainees participate in a variety of professional, managerial and technical training opportunities, giving you a broad understanding of MnDOT's operations and the customers we serve. You will have an advisor and a mentor (a current MnDOT engineer or land surveyor) to help with rotation planning. This experience will help you make better decisions as you move toward a permanent position with MnDOT.
Professional development
The time you spend on the program will count towards your Professional Engineer (PE) or Professional Land Surveyor (PLS) license. MnDOT is committed to employee development; the department requires people hired into this career path to obtain their PE or PLS License within six years of starting this program. In addition, trainees are expected to participate in non-traditional employment development events such as attendance at engineering career fairs, presentations and other opportunities that become available throughout the year.
Pay
Pay rate is $26.62 - $39.28 per hour, based on prior experience and education.
Eligibility
Applicants must possess a degree in civil, construction, environmental, geo, or structural engineering or land surveying from an accredited university. Other majors may be considered depending on the department's needs. Applicants are evaluated on a point system, and additional points are given for:
- GPA of 2.5 or above
- Master's degree in a civil engineering, land surveying, or related field
- Prior experience
- FE or PE (for Graduate Engineer)
- FS or PS (for Land Surveyor)
Application
The Graduate Engineer and Land Surveyor Program recruits and hires on an as-needed basis with applications accepted year-round. All applications must be submitted through the State of Minnesota Careers website. Besides the job application, candidates must also submit:
- School transcripts
- Proof of credentials for those with FE certification or PE licensure
- A list ranking your job location preference for permanent placement after program completion
Candidates who hold a degree from an international college or university and have not passed the FE exam in Minnesota must provide proof of eligibility for licensure in Minnesota upon meeting the professional engineering experience requirements. Additionally, candidates submit documentation verifying that their degree is equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Geoengineering, or Structural Engineering.
Review the State Minnesota's tips and guidelines for detailed information on how to apply and the hiring process.