Minnesota Department of Transportation

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Design

Class code: 003685
Bargaining unit(s): 202
Classification title: Transportation Generalist
Function: Design
Kind of work: Basic level technical and skilled work

Nature & purpose

Under general supervision an employee in this class performs daily and routine work assisting with the preparation of construction plans according to MnDOT design standards; and related work as required.

This level is different from the Transportation Associate level in that at the Transportation Generalist level, an employee requires less direct supervision.  At the Transportation Generalist level, daily work and projects are assigned by the supervisor and/or lead worker.  Work/projects are completed with a higher level of discretion than at the lower level.  An employee modifies simple, established procedures to improve work processes.  Some employees may provide work direction to others as part of a specific assignment.

An employee resolves semi-routine yet similar problems using defined approaches learned through work.  An employee at this level is responsible for completing daily work assignments and may identify service needs not currently being met by either taking care of it or bringing it to the attention of the supervisor/lead worker. 

Entry into Design positions begin at the Transportation Generalist level.

Examples of work

A position may not include all the work examples given, nor does the list include all that may be assigned.

  • Performs basic/routine technical computer-aided drafting and designing (CADD) in accordance with CADD data standards to meet deadlines.
  • Assists design leader in preparing plans in accordance with MnDOT standards so that plans are delivered in a timely manner.
  • Assists with performing basic/routine horizontal and vertical geometric designs with typical sections in accordance with MnDOT design standards.
  • Assists in creating quantity and tabulation tables and charts and performs calculations to ensure they are filled in completely and correctly in accordance with design standards.
  • Assembles standard details and drawings in order to have complete plans for contract lettings.
  • Assists in assembling and cross-checking construction plans in order to provide an accurate
  • Assists in preparing displays, handouts, and other documents for public meetings.
  • Uses and maintains project information in an effective manner so that information is readily available for plan preparation and other uses.
  • Conducts background research on assigned issues.

Knowledge, skills and abilities required to be proficient at the job 

Knowledge of:

  • MnDOT policies and procedures; Highway Project Development Process (HPDP), and other State and Federal regulations pertaining to the development of projects.
  • MicroStation, GEOPAK, MnDOT, FHWA and AASHTO design standards sufficient to create documents and perform basic design functions.
  • Working knowledge of English sufficient to read, write, speak and understand oral and written information; communicate with employees and the general public in-person or via two-way radio and other electronic devices; and to maintain routine written logs and simple records.

Skill in:

  • Use and operation of motor vehicles requiring a Class D License sufficient to drive to various locations.

Ability to:

Information Technology – Create and edit computer files, such as letters, memos, spreadsheets, PowerPoint presentation files and use CADD software – MicroStation and basic GEOPAK sufficient to provide technical detailed designing and drafting; prepare layouts and profiles and the ability to enter timesheets into computerized program(s).
Interpersonal Skills – Work cooperatively with peers.  Able to receive verbal instruction and direction.  Ability to interact with customers and stakeholders sufficient to resolve interpersonal conflicts and answer routine questions in one-on-one situations. Assist in resolving routine customer issues; work with others of diverse backgrounds; and use tact and diplomacy.
Leadership – Take responsibility for quality and timeliness of work; respond to unplanned requests; complete assigned tasks and report progress; and demonstrate behavior consistent with department direction.
Math – Solve advanced geometry and trigonometry problems and calculate area, volume, and geometric characteristics of all design elements sufficient to perform basic engineering calculations and basic/ routine horizontal and vertical geometric designs with typical sections.
Oral Communication – Articulate job-related questions and comprehend answers in a team setting sufficient to effectively communicate; comprehend work assignment and organize work and task assignment planning; answer routine questions that provide support and assistance to co-workers; and participate in open group discussions, collaborating with co-workers.
Problem Solving – Follow verbal instructions.  Can work under the direction of others.  Work independently sufficient to solve routine technical, process, or people-related problems.
Reading – Comprehend white papers, proposals, departmental forms and instructional manuals; read construction plans, MnDOT manuals and specification books; understand written materials, plans, charts, and technical drawings; and apply MNDOT design standards, manuals, guidelines, policies and procedures.
Written Communications – Generate notes, letters, memos and technical departmental forms, and use e-mail sufficient to perform basic business writing.

Licenses, Certifications:

Some positions may require a driver’s license, as well as endorsements, specific to position demands and/or equipment required to perform the job within the work area posted.

Technical certifications may be required specific to position demands and will be documented on the posting as to the justification of why specific certifications are necessary.

  • Current MN Class D Driver’s License or equivalent

Minimum Qualifications:

Include years of experience, education, training, certifications, and licenses required at the time of application to be considered eligible for the vacancy.

The level of experience to perform this job at the TG level can be achieved with:

  • One (1) year of experience utilizing computer-aided drafting and designing (CADD) or related activities

OR

  • A Two year Civil or Construction Technology Degree or the following four year degrees:  Architectural, Civil or Mechanical Engineering; Land Surveying / Geomatics; or equivalent may substitute for one year of experience. (In order for education coursework to be considered in lieu of work experience you must submit a copy of your transcripts).
  • Working knowledge of English sufficient to read, write, speak and understand oral and written information; communicate with employees and the general public in-person or via two-way radio and other electronic devices; and to maintain routine written logs and simple records.

Physical capabilities and environmental work conditions:

Requires occasionally lifting articles such as file boxes or heavy material with help from others and/or lifting and carrying light objects frequently.  The weight being lifted may only be a negligible amount.  A job in this category may require walking or standing on rough terrain or may involve sitting most of the time with pushing and pulling of arm and/or leg controls.

EST:

Rev:

  • 2-15-12 Updated degree

Former Titles:

  • Highway Technician