Optical Engineer Entry Level Jobs in Cleveland, OH

Description The Ohio Turnpike and Infrastructure Commission (OTIC) is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Entry-Level Traffic and Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) Engineer to support planning, design, implementation, and operations of traffic engineering and ITS infrastructure along the 241-mile Ohio Turnpike. This role provides a unique opportunity to work on high-impact statewide transportation systems, including traffic monitoring, safety technologies, connected vehicle systems, and roadway operational improvements. The position is ideal for individuals early in their engineering career who are eager to develop technical skills, contribute to real-world traffic and ITS initiatives, and support ongoing modernization of critical transportation assets.

Why Join OTIC. Work on high-visibility statewide transportation systems with real safety and mobility impacts. Opportunities for training, professional development, and advancement toward professional licensure.

Collaborative engineering environment dedicated to innovation and modernization of Ohio's transportation infrastructure. If you are interested, here's some of what we can offer you: Salary ranges from $75,087.48-$91,269.10 annually Excellent pension and health care benefits Generous paid leaves Stability The Ohio Turnpike & Infrastructure Commission provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. Examples of Duties Main Job Tasks: Assist in traffic engineering studies including traffic counts and monitoring, speed studies, safety evaluations, and operational assessments

Support the design, review, and implementation of highway safety systems including signs, pavement markings, and delineation. Support the design, review, and implementation of ITS devices and systems such as traffic cameras, dynamic message signs, roadway weather information systems, and fiber-optic communications. Participate in data collection, field investigations, and performance monitoring for roadway and ITS assets.

Analyze traffic and crash/incident data to support mobility, safety, and reliability improvements. Assist in developing plans, specifications, cost estimates, and documentation for traffic and ITS projects. Support coordination with consultants, contractors, vendors, and internal OTIC departments.

Help maintain data inventories and asset management records for ITS equipment and traffic infrastructure. Review and interpret plans, manuals, and standards related to traffic control devices, electrical systems, communications networks, and roadway operations. Provide technical assistance during construction, system testing, and commissioning activities.

Contribute to the ongoing development of OTIC's traffic management strategies, emerging technologies initiatives, and operational policies. Perform any other duties as may be assigned by the Design and Planning Engineer and/or the Chief Engineer. Work Characteristics: Knowledge of civil engineering with an emphasis on highway construction (including roadway, drainage, bridge construction and rehabilitation, public relations*, OSHA safety regulations, supervisory principles and techniques).

Knowledge of basic traffic engineering principles, transportation operations, or ITS technologies (coursework or internships acceptable). (some of which may be developed after employment). Familiarity with MUTCD standards, traffic data analysis, and common engineering tools is preferred.

Interest in ITS, transportation technology, roadway safety, and public infrastructure. Ability to comprehend and interpret variety of civil engineering principles, techniques, procedures, criteria, plans, specifications and related data Define problems, collect data, establish facts and draw valid engineering/technical conclusions. Cooperate with co-workers on group projects, handle routine and sensitive contacts with government officials, consulting firms, contractors and general public.

Familiarity with agency codes, regulations and specifications. (some of which may be developed after employment). Knowledge of various governmental and/or organizational regulations and specifications as they relate to highway, structure, and environmental issues (some of which may be developed after employment).

Effectively accomplish several work assignments simultaneously. Strong written and oral communication skills. Proficiency in the use of computer equipment and programs, Excel, Word, and Outlook.

Typical Qualifications Minimum Qualifications: Entry level position. Bachelor's degree in civil engineering, transportation engineering, or related curriculum. Passing results obtained of the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam.

Ability to obtain professional engineer registration within four (4) years. Experience with any combination of design, construction, and/or maintenance practices associated with typical engineering infrastructures, including internships or co-op programs preferred. May be required to obtain additional mandated certificates and/or licenses, based on changes in state or federal law, as necessary to perform the required duties of this position.

Valid State of Ohio Driver's License. Supplemental Information Unusual Working Conditions: The predominant work environment is both the office, with periodic requirements for field work; Must be physically capable and sufficiently agile to perform a variety of field activities, which may require climbing, walking, running and lifting, visual and auditory observations. Occasional travel and work during off-peak hours may be required for field investigations or system testing.

Required to travel throughout the distance of the Ohio Turnpike.