Assistant City Engineer; PE

Job Description

The Assistant City Engineer supports the City Engineer in planning, design, delivery, and oversight of municipal public works and capital improvement projects. This role provides engineering review, project management, construction support, and coordination with internal departments, consultants, contractors, and outside agencies to ensure infrastructure projects are delivered safely, on schedule, and in compliance with applicable standards and regulations.

Key Responsibilities

Engineering & Plan Review

• Review engineering plans, specifications, cost estimates, and technical reports for CIP, development, and utility projects.
• Review development applications for engineering compliance (grading, drainage, streets, water, sewer, storm drain, ADA/PROWAG considerations, encroachments, and right-of-way).
• Support preparation of PS&E packages and bid documents; assist with addenda and responses to bidder inquiries.

Capital Project & Consultant Management

• Manage assigned CIP projects from scoping through design and construction closeout.
• Assist with consultant selection, scope development, fee negotiation, contract administration, and deliverable review.
• Track project budgets, schedules, and funding requirements; prepare progress updates and recommendations.

Construction Support & Field Coordination

• Provide construction engineering support, including RFIs, submittal review, change order support, and pay estimate review.
• Coordinate with inspectors and testing labs; support quality assurance/quality control.
• Assist with construction observation, field verification, and resolution of conflicts between plans and field conditions.

Permitting, Standards, and Compliance

• Ensure projects comply with City standards, Caltrans standards (when applicable), ADA requirements, environmental permits, and utility coordination requirements.
• Support preparation and processing of encroachment permits, transportation/utility permits, and right-of-way documentation.
• Support procurement and contract compliance requirements when state/federal funding applies (as assigned).

Public Communication & Council/Staff Support

• Assist in preparing staff reports, council agenda items, exhibits, and presentations.
• Support resident and stakeholder communications related to engineering projects, construction impacts, and development conditions.
• Coordinate with Public Works, Planning, Finance, and Legal to support project delivery.

Operations Support

• Assist with asset management efforts (streets, sidewalks, drainage, water, wastewater) including condition assessments and prioritization.
• Help maintain and update City standard plans, specifications, and engineering design criteria.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or closely related field.

Experience (typical ranges—agency may adjust)

• 2–5 years of progressively responsible civil engineering experience in municipal/public works, land development, or capital projects.
• Experience reviewing plans and managing projects under public agency standards is highly desirable.

Licenses/Certifications

• Valid California driver’s license.
• California Professional Civil Engineer (PE) license preferred; EIT required if not licensed (with ability/intent to obtain PE within a specified timeframe).

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Working knowledge of municipal engineering practices: streets/roadways, drainage, water, wastewater, and stormwater.
• Familiarity with applicable standards and regulations (City standards, Caltrans standards where applicable, ADA/PROWAG concepts, stormwater requirements, permitting).
• Ability to interpret plans/specifications, perform technical calculations, and evaluate constructability.
• Strong project management, communication, and customer service skills.
• Proficient with typical engineering software/tools (AutoCAD/Civil 3D and/or plan review tools; MS Office; project tracking).

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Split time between office and field/construction sites.
• Ability to conduct site visits in varying weather conditions; walk uneven terrain; lift and carry typical field equipment (as required).
• Required to…