Technical Specialist 1 (Entry Level Drainage Engineer)

We have and exciting opportunity for a motivated and detail-oriented Drainage Engineer  to join our growing transportation and infrastructure team. This position offers an excellent opportunity for a recent graduate or early-career engineer to develop technical expertise in drainage and stormwater design while working alongside experienced engineers on roadway, highway, municipal, and transportation projects throughout Florida. 

The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in civil engineering principles, a willingness to learn Florida drainage design standards, and an interest in developing a career in transportation and water resources engineering. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Assist with drainage engineering analyses and design for transportation, municipal, and infrastructure projects.


• Support the preparation of drainage reports, calculations, technical memorandums, plans, and specifications.


• Assist in the design of stormwater management systems, culverts, retention and detention facilities, and roadway drainage infrastructure.


• Perform hydrologic and hydraulic calculations under the guidance of senior engineers.


• Assist with the development of permit applications and supporting documentation.


• Coordinate with roadway engineers, environmental specialists, surveyors, and project teams.


• Support project design efforts using industry-standard engineering software.


• Review project information, maps, survey data, and construction plans.


• Participate in field visits, site investigations, and project meetings as needed.


• Ensure project work complies with FDOT standards, local regulations, and company quality standards.


• Continue professional development toward obtaining Professional Engineer (PE) licensure.

Required Qualifications 

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from an accredited university.


• Engineer Intern (EI) certification or ability to obtain within 12 months of hire.


• 0-3 years of experience in civil engineering, drainage engineering, transportation engineering, or related internships/co-op experience.


• Basic understanding of hydrology, hydraulics, and stormwater management principles.


• Familiarity with engineering design software such as:




• AutoCAD Civil 3D


• MicroStation


• HEC-RAS


• HY-8


• ICPR (preferred but not required)




• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.


• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.


• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment.

Preferred Qualifications 

• Internship or co-op experience with a civil engineering consulting firm, transportation agency, or municipality.


• Exposure to FDOT standards, roadway design, or stormwater management projects.


• Experience using Civil 3D, MicroStation, HEC-RAS, or related engineering software.


• Engineer Intern (EI) certification.


• Interest in pursuing Florida Professional Engineer (PE) licensure.


• Residency in the Orlando or Jacksonville area preferred.

What You'll Gain 

• Mentorship from experienced Professional Engineers.


• Exposure to FDOT and municipal infrastructure projects.


• Hands-on experience with drainage and stormwater design.


• Professional development opportunities and PE licensure support.


• Career growth within a collaborative transportation and infrastructure team.

General Characteristics

• Possesses foundational engineering concepts through undergraduate-level education.  


• Acquires basic knowledge and develops basic skills through mentored experience.   


• Applies learned knowledge and skills to perform assigned tasks. 


• Performs routine technical work which does not require previous experience. 


• Understands and complies with ethical codes.

Minimum Years of Experience

• Entry / 0+ Years of Experience

Education

• B.S. Engineering or other technical degree

Technical Responsibilities

• Collects data and gathers information or documents. 


• Participates in laboratory testing and field investigations.


• Performs basic computations or analysis.


• Assists with preparation of engineering deliverables.


• Observes construction activities.

Project and Task Management

• Responsible for personal task management and adherence to deadlines and scope. 


• No managerial responsibilities at this level.

Management Responsibility

• Receives close supervision on all aspects of assignments. 


• Attains mentored experience from a licensed engineer.

Communication Skills

• Possesses basic oral and written communication skills. Identifies and acknowledges principles of teamwork and leadership. 


• Interacts primarily with internal project team members.

Why GAI?    

GAI offers skilled professionals like you an exceptional place to work, grow, lead, and achieve. Explore an array of opportunities in locations across the U.S. and join accomplished colleagues in tackling challenging projects for a range of markets. Enjoy work location and scheduling flexibility; your choice of comprehensive, personalized benefits; a range of employee wellness programs and discounts; and more. Feel good about being part of a collaborative team that’s committed to supporting the communities we serve. Join GAI and distinguish yourself in a company poised for unlimited growth.    

Benefits To Working at GAI Include:    

Competitive Pay & Recognition  

• Market based, competitive compensation 


• Performance driven recognition and development bonuses 

Comprehensive Health & Wellness  

• Medical, dental, and vision plans 


• Company paid short-term and long-term disability 


• Company paid life insurance 


• Employee Assistance Program and wellness resources 

Meaningful Work–Life Balance  

• Generous paid time off + 7 paid holidays 


• An additional floating holiday—use it for what matters to you 


• Paid maternity, paternity, and adoption leave 

Growth, Learning & Financial Security  

• 401(k) with company match 


• Tuition reimbursement 


• Support and rewards for professional development and certifications 

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