Design Engineer

Job Requisition ID: 57078 
Opening Date: 07/17/2026
Closing Date: 07/31/2026
**Agency:**Department of Natural Resources
Class Title: PUBLIC SERVICE ADMINISTRATOR - 37015 
Skill Option: Special License - Engineer (Professional) 
Bilingual Option: None
Salary: Anticipated Starting Salary $9,000-$11,000 monthly
Job Type: Salaried
Category: Full Time 
County: Sangamon
Number of Vacancies: 1
Bargaining Unit Code: None
Merit Comp Code: Managerial Exclusion from RC063 Collective Bargaining Coverage

A resume is highly encouraged to evaluate your qualifications and skills as part of your application.  Please attach a DETAILED Resume/Curriculum Vitae (CV) to the MY DOCUMENTS section of your application if you decide to provide one.

Please upload a copy of your official/unofficial transcripts for all degrees earned and a copy of any applicable professional licenses you possess to MY DOCUMENTS section of your application.

Posting Identification Number: 12-63-57078

Why Work for Illinois?

Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you’re helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you’re part of something bigger—something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home.

No matter what state career you’re looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule—flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.

Position Overview

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is seeking to hire a Design Engineer for the Office of Water Resources.  This position, which is a licensed engineer, will develop plans, specification and cost estimates for water resource projects, review shop plans and contract submittals; travel throughout the state; assist with coordination of the bidding process, analyze bids and recommend awarding of contracts; develop relationships with all contacts within and outside of the Department of Natural Resources to facilitate the development of projects and make other presentations in a manner which reflects all aspects of the public works project.  The Division of Water Resource Management is responsible for regulating activities within or adjacent to Illinois rivers, lakes and streams; administering the state floodplain/floodway mapping ; allocating and monitoring water use from Lake Michigan; coordinating the National Flood Insurance Program; and administering the nonstructural flood mitigation program.  We welcome all qualified and interested candidates to apply.

Essential Functions

• Subject to review and approval of the Design Plans Unit Manager, as a licensed engineer, designs all types of water resources projects including preparation of contract plans, specifications and cost estimates. 
• Designs and/or checks the design of water resource projects throughout the state.
• Assists in the consolidation of plan sheets and documents to assemble a set of contract plans suitable for bid letting and construction. 
• Arranges and conducts meetings with local, State and Federal officials for the presentation and review of water resource plans and reports. 
• Develops working relations with OWR employees, and other Departmental and non Departmental contacts. 
• Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the work of the duties enumerated above. 

Minimum Qualifications

• Requires knowledge, skill and mental development equivalent to completion of four years of college with a degree in engineering. 
• Requires three years or more experience in the field of engineering. 
• Requires Professional Engineering License in the State of Illinois. 

Preferred Qualifications

• Working knowledge of project design review and preparation.
• Prefers two (2) years of experience working with bidding process for contracts. 
• Prefers one (1) year of experience in project coordinator with State and Federal agencies. 
• Prefers one (1) year of working experience of public works and construction projects. 

Conditions of Employment

• Requires appropriate, valid drivers license
• Requires completion of a background check and self-disclosure of criminal history.

The conditions of employment listed here are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listed in the job description.

Division Statement

Office of Water Resources

The Office of Water Resources (OWR) is the lead state agency for water resources planning, navigation, floodplain management, the National Flood Insurance Program, water supply, drought, and interstate organizations on water resources.  Interagency duties include the state water plan, drought response, flood emergency reports, and the comprehensive review of Illinois water use law.  OWR is responsible for construction in the shore waters of Lake Michigan, construction and operation of dams, construction in public bodies of water, and diversion of water from Lake Michigan, and withdrawal of water from three Federal lakes (Shelbyville, Carlyle, and Rend Lakes).  The primary capital activity of the office is in urban flood damage reduction. The office assists units of local government with urban flood damage reduction projects through planning, design, construction, and financial assistance. The urban program also features the acquisition of flood prone homes and businesses.

Work Hours:  Monday - Friday, 8am - 4:30pm w/ 1 hr. lunch 
Headquarter Location: IDNR, 1 Natural Resources Wy, Springfield, Illinois, 62702 
Work County: Sangamon
Agency Contact:  Vicky Fowler 
Email: vicky.fowler@illinois.gov
Phone #: 217-785-5387
Posting Group: Leadership & Management

DNR Agency Statement

Charged with preserving, protecting, and promoting Illinois’ natural resources, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) employees oversee water, wildlife, wetlands and oil wells, parks, historic sites – and everything in between. Employment opportunities vary greatly, often providing employees the chance to work indoors and out in a dynamic yet relaxed environment. Working for the State of Illinois, IDNR employees receive excellent benefits, including health, vision and dental insurance; a retirement plan and deferred compensation options; state holidays and other time off; as well as pre-tax benefit programs; flexible/remote work schedules may be available for certain positions.

The main form of communication will be through email. Please check your “junk mail”, “spam”, or “other” folder for communication(s) regarding any submitted application(s). You may receive emails from the following addresses:

• donotreply@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com
• systems@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com