Frequently Asked Questions
What Will I Be Doing While Working for VDOT?
Depending on how many engineering classes you have taken, you will be assigned to a residency or section that will help you achieve the most rewarding educational experience. Some of your work experience may be to:
- Assist
in design and inspection of new roadway and bridge projects
- Plan
for transportation needs of the future
- Sample
and evaluate roadway and bridge materials
- Determine
requirements for customer safety and perform traffic engineering work
- Apply
scientific research to develop a state-of-the-art highway system
- Use
the latest engineering technology
- Work
in a high-performance, values-based team environment to accomplish meaningful
work and Keep Virginia Moving!
Where Will I Work During the Summer?
VDOT understands you may need to live at home or at school during the summer. We will work with you to find an office that is within a reasonable d istance from you.
What If I Pursue a Master’s Right After College?
For each semester you receive the scholarship, you agree to work for VDOT in a full-time classified position for six months.
When you finish with your undergraduate degree, you can defer your obligation to VDOT while you
attend graduate school full-time. After you receive your master's, you will
f fill your obligation.
What If My GPA Falls Below 2.5?
If your cumulative GPA falls below 2.5, you will be put on probation for one semester. During this time, your academic advisor will be notified and you will be advised to seek out tutoring or other study aids.
While on probation, you will not receive the scholarship. If your cumulative GPA does not increase, you will be removed from the Engineer Scholarship Program.
Do I Reapply Each Year?
No. After being selected for the Engineer Scholarship Program, you must continue to meet the requirements for the program (GPA, enrollment, major, etc.) to remain in the program. You may receive the scholarship for a maximum of four years.
Where Will I Work After Graduation?
After graduation, you will be interviewed for placement as an associate engineer in t he Engineer Development Program.
This full-time classified position is designed to prepare you for progressively responsible roles within the agency.
Your work assignment with VDOT will be determined based on the needs of the agency. The Engineer Development Program coordinator will work with you to find a match between these needs and your needs. See our Web page on the Engineer Development Program for more information.
What Are the Requirements?
You are eligible to apply if you:
- Major in civil engineering
- Maintain at least a 2.5 grade point average
- Currently are a rising junior or senior
- Maintain Virginia residency or attend a Virginia school
How Do I Apply?
