Trail Design Engineer

Utah is one of the fastest-growing states in the nation, and the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) Trails Division is helping shape how that growth connects communities. With significant legislative investment, UDOT is building the Utah Trail Network (UTN) —a system of paved regional trails designed to expand mobility and access across the state.
About The Role
As a Trail Design Engineer , you will help build this program from the ground up. You’ll oversee trail design, support projects from concept to delivery, and help define the standards that will shape Utah’s trail system for decades.
Position Details

Salary Range: $45.53 - $72.25 Hourly
Position Type: Full-Time, Career Service (Schedule B)
Work Format: Hybrid; based at the Calvin Rampton Complex , Taylorsville
Application Deadline: 4/12/2026
Requirements: A successful background check is required for this position.
What You’ll Do

Lead development of concept-level trail designs and cost estimates to support project funding decisions statewide
Serve as the Trails Division representative on UTN design projects, providing input at key milestones
Partner with Central Divisions, Region teams, and external stakeholders (e.g., MPOs) to advance the UTN Master Plan
Maintain and advance trail design standards that reflect best practices and local context
Provide technical guidance and training to support consistent trail design across UDOT
Support the growth and development of the Trails Division and UTN program through ideation and creative problem solving
Conduct site visits of existing and proposed trail corridors on foot or by bike
What We’re Looking For

Strong understanding of civil and transportation engineering principles
Experience developing project estimates and reviewing plans, specifications, and cost estimates
Ability to guide design decisions and communicate technical concepts to a variety of stakeholders
Experience working collaboratively on multidisciplinary project teams
Ability to work independently, manage priorities, and meet deadlines
Experience using CAD tools (e.g., OpenRoads Designer, ConceptStation) and Excel for estimating
Minimum Qualifications

Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in Utah
At least 2 years of engineering experience following PE licensure
This position may be filled at a lower level for candidates with at least 1 year of post-licensure engineering experience.
Join Our Team!
A Mission That Matters – At UDOT, our mission is to “Enhance quality of life through transportation.” We help the traveling public get where they want, when they want, as safely as possible. By joining our team, you contribute to the framework of Good Health, Connected Communities, Better Mobility, and a Strong Economy for all of Utah.
Our Culture and Values – We aren't just a state agency; we are a team built on an internal culture of Trust, Teamwork, and Flexibility. We live by the values of Respect, Integrity, and Caring. If these values resonate with you, you will find a home here!
Benefits At a Glance

Exceptional Health Coverage: We offer some of the most competitive medical premiums in the industry, including comprehensive family plans with very low out-of-pocket costs and HSA options.
Retirement Choice: Flexibility between a 10% employer-paid 401(k) (no match required) or a Pension/401(k) Hybrid plan.
Generous Paid Time Off: 12 paid holidays per year plus 8 hours of combined leave (4 annual and 4 sick) accrued each pay period.
Dental & Vision: Multiple high-quality plan options to fit your needs.
EEO Statement
The State of Utah is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, or Veteran status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. For accommodations, please contact (801) 957-9390.
Recruiter – Corrie Steeves | clsteeves@utah.gov |