Principal Civil Engineer

Salary : $11,420.35 - $13,881.51 Monthly
Location : Santa Maria, CA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: FY 24-00136
Department: Utilities
Division: Utilities - Refuse Disposal
Opening Date: 10/02/2024
Closing Date: Continuous
OPPORTUNITY
This recruitment will remain open until filled.
For first consideration, apply by Friday, October 18, 2024.
The City of Santa Maria seeks a Principal Civil Engineer to join the Utilities Department.
THE DEPARTMENT
The Utilities Department provides water, sewer, refuse collection, and disposal services to the growing City of Santa Maria, California, located on the beautiful Central Coast of California. The mission of the Utilities Department is to provide efficient utility services through the use of progressive innovation, excellent customer service, and the wise use of public resources for the long-term benefit of the community.
IDEAL CANDIDATE STATEMENT
The ideal candidate for this position is a skilled Professional Engineer with extensive experience in managing and delivering large-scale capital projects within the Utilities sector, particularly in Solid Waste. They will have a proven track record in the design and construction of projects supporting solid waste disposal with strong organization and project management skills, with an emphasis on integrating innovative solutions and ensuring project success and efficiency.
REQUIRED SUBMITTALS

1. Online application
2. Letter of interest that directly aligns your background and experience with the specifications outlined in the Ideal Candidate Statement. (Submit through online application)

DUTIES
These duties are a representative example; position assignments may vary depending on the business needs of the department and organization. This position:

• Assumes responsibility over two to four program areas (Construction Management, Development and Planning, Traffic, Capital Projects) and provides vision and direction, motivates and oversees staff, participates in the development and administration of the division/section budget, and in Public Works takes on the duties of the Director of Public Works as assigned.
• Develops and reviews policies, procedures and strategic plans that fulfill City goals and ensures compliance with and conformance to the requirements of the subdivision map act and the municipal code, sound engineering practices, neighborhood and citywide traffic, transit, and transportation solutions, roadway, water and sewer plans, solid waste infrastructure and plans, and area-wide drainage plans.
• Leads, oversees, and performs a variety of advanced level professional duties and responsibilities involved in the research, planning, design, and construction of various engineering projects, serves as project manager on complex projects.
• Represents the department and the City in meetings with the general public, governmental agencies, transportation commissions, planning commission, community groups, various businesses, professional, and regulatory organizations, policymakers, lending institutions, etc.
• Positions assigned to Development and Planning may be responsible for:
  • Reviewing development proposals, facilitating review of construction plans, easements and subdivision maps, supervising update of public infrastructure records, coordinating the issuance of encroachment permits and responding to public requests for engineering data.
  • Checking plans to determine compliance with applicable codes, checking engineering methods used in project design and verifying accuracy of engineering calculations.
  • Providing technical support to construction services, making technical engineering decisions and establishing technical criteria and standards.
  • Representing the Public Works Department before the City Planning Commission and/or City Council.
  • Building relationships with the private engineering sector.
  • Employing and coordinating consultants to accomplish tasks.

Positions assigned to Capital Projects may be responsible for:

• Developing the capital improvement program and serving as the project manager on all City capital projects.
• Supervising the design on a limited number of in-house design projects.
• Employing and supervising private consultants.
• Pursuing funding sources.
• Providing technical support for City operations including but not limited to water, wastewater, solid waste/landfill, recreation and parks, police, fire, community development, and library.
• Acting as professional staff advisor to policymakers serving on various regional planning/enforcement boards.

Positions assigned to Construction Management may be responsible for:

• Assigning, supervising, and evaluating the work of Senior Civil Engineers and other engineering personnel.
• Acquiring and supervising the services of consultants to survey, inspect, or manage City construction projects.
• Negotiating change orders, manages project budgets, facilitating solutions to construction issues and negotiating with other departments and agencies regarding construction issues.

Positions assigned to Traffic may be responsible for:

• Coordinating advance transportation planning, including traffic studies and surveys, developing and reviewing traffic control plans, and analyzing accident sites and providing possible solutions for accident reduction.
• Meeting with the public to resolve neighborhood and citywide traffic issues and coordinating all meetings of the City Traffic Committee.
• Providing transportation staff support to the City, other governmental agencies, and technical transportation committees.

Positions assigned Utilities may support all program areas (except Traffic), supervise staff, and manage consultants.

Scope of assigned area will depend on departmental structure and is at the discretion of the department director.

Upholds the values of the organization and has strong customer service orientation.

Performs other related projects and duties as assigned.

Demonstrates regular, reliable and punctual attendance.

DETAILED JOB DESCRIPTION:
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Ideally, five years of progressively responsible professional work experience in the field of civil engineering or a closely related field; and
• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor's degree in civil or mechanical engineering or a related field.
• An equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed above.
• Current technical/professional knowledge of complex principles, methods, standards and techniques associated with the scope of work of a recognized profession, such as:
  • Engineering design, construction practices, drafting, inspection, and surveying.
  • Physics, chemistry, and mathematics as applied to civil engineering.
  • Street maintenance practices and procedures.
  • Local, state and federal regulations pertaining to the construction principles and practices of engineering as applied to service activities.
  • Local, state and federal regulations related to public works systems.
  • Effective management, supervision, evaluation and training.
  • Appropriate safety precautions and procedures.
  • Effective verbal and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Microsoft Office Suite (or equivalent).
  • Use computer and other office equipment effectively.

Required licenses and/or certifications associated with the assignment, such as:

• Certificate of Registration as a Civil Engineer issued by the State Board of Registration for Civil Engineers.
• Registration as a Licensed Land Surveyor is desired.
• Registration as a Licensed Traffic Engineer is desired.

DESIRED CORE COMPETENCIES
Middle Manager:
Incumbents should have a solid foundation of Individual Contributor and Front-line Supervisor core competencies identified by the organization, as well as the following core competencies identified as essential for Middle Manager :

• Talent Development - Effective performers keep a continual eye on the talent pool to monitor skills and needs of team members. They expand staff skills through training, coaching, and development. They evaluate and articulate present performance and future potential.
• Organizing & Planning - Effective performers have strong organizing and planning skills that allow them to be highly productive and efficient, manage time wisely, and effectively prioritize multiple competing tasks.
• Organization Knowledge - Effective performers understand the workings of a municipal organization, formal and informal policies and structures, and know "how the place works."
• Relationship Building - Effective performers understand that a primary factor in success is establishing and maintaining productive relationships. They interact with people and are good at it. They devote appropriate time and energy to establishing and maintaining networks.
• Results Orientation - Effective performers maintain appropriate focus on outcomes and accomplishments, are motivated by achievement, and persist until the goal is reached.
• Industry Knowledge - Effective performers understand the general workings of local government within which the organization functions, and maintain a current knowledge base.
• Written Communication - Effective performers write clearly and concisely, composing informative and convincing documents. They use written language to convey substance and intent with simplicity, accuracy and clarity.
• Financial Acumen - Effective performers understand the financial framework of the organization. They are cost conscious and fiscally responsible, and use financial data to make informed business decisions.
• Change Agility - Effective performers are adaptable, are effective in the face of ambiguity, and support an orientation for change.
• Technology Savvy - Effective performers use technology to be successful in their organizational role. They value technology and leverage existing and new technology to achieve efficiency.

SELECTION PROCESS
The completed electronic application packet will include the online application, including supplemental questions, and electronic attachment of a cover letter. If a cover letter is not attached, your application will be considered incomplete. If you are experiencing any technical (computer related) difficulties or need help with attaching documents to your application, please call the NEOGOV help line for assistance at 1-855-524-5627.
Application Ranking: Application, including cover letter, and supplemental questions will be evaluated and scored. Candidates' final score and rank will be determined by their complete application packet upon meeting the employment standards of the position and be certified to the Eligibility List.
The most qualified applicants will be screened and invited to the Departmental selection interviews with the hiring department once a candidate has been certified to the Eligibility List. Note: only those applicants who best fit the needs of the Hiring Department will be considered for this opportunity.
Prior to an offer of employment, the selected candidate may undergo a background check to the satisfaction of the City.
The following benefits vary by bargaining unit. For full benefit information please refer to the Memorandum of Understanding or compensation resolution available at
Retirement
The City of Santa Maria is a member of the California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS). Your benefit factor is determined by the retirement formula, age, service credit and final compensation. Based upon your bargaining unit and hire date the benefit factor will vary.
Health Insurance
Medical Insurance is provided to employees and eligible dependents through the California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS). There are four Preferred Provider Organizations (PPO's) and three Health Maintenance Organizations (HMO's) to choose from. The benefit amount varies per bargaining unit. See Memorandum of Understanding for eligibility requirements.
The City has a medical insurance benefit program which provides either payment towards the premium for the employee and eligible dependents, or cash payment if you and your dependent(s) already have health benefits. Evidence of major medical health insurance coverage is required for those employees who receive the cash payment.
Dental Insurance
Dental Insurance is provided to employees and eligible dependents through The Standard covering 100% of Preventive; 90% of Basic; and 60% of Major with a minimal deductible. The plan includes a Max Builder option rewarding insured employees and their dependents who use only a portion of their annual dental benefit maximum. The benefit amount varies per
bargaining unit.
Vision Insurance
Vision Insurance is available to employees and eligible dependents. Coverage is through VSP and covers an annual Well Vision exam and an allowance towards prescription glasses. The benefit amount varies per bargaining unit.
Life Insurance and AD&D Coverage
All employees working a minimum of thirty two (32) hours per week are eligible for Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) coverage. Supplemental life, spousal and dependent child options are also available. The benefit amount varies per bargaining unit.
Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
All employees working a minimum of thirty two (32) hours per week, excluding Sworn Police and Fire shall participate in the short-term and long-term disability plan with coverage up to 66 2/3% of salary. Sworn Police and Fire are covered through their respective bargaining unit.
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
The City offers a flexible spending account option for Dependent Care and Health Care Expenses. With these plans, employees can choose to place a portion of their earnings into a personal reimbursement account on a pre-tax basis. Doing so lowers employees' taxable income for the year and allows them to pay for their qualified dependent care and eligible health care expenses with pre-tax dollars.
Employee Assistance Program
The City provides an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) through AETNA for all full and part time employees and their eligible dependents. The confidential EAP program can refer employees to professional counselors and services that can help resolve emotional health, family and work-life issues, or provide help with childcare and eldercare assistance, financial and legal services, identity theft recovery services and daily living services.
Wellness Program
Offered to help employees gain knowledge, skills and motivation to improve the quality of their lives and well-being. The City's Wellness Program includes ergonomic evaluations, flu shots, and Wellness Workshops during lunch and after work.
Access to the Paul Nelson Aquatics Center for employee and immediate family members.Access to the Weight room at the Abel Maldonado Community Youth Center for employee and immediate family members. Access to employee discounts and special offers on travel, entertainment, shopping, dining and services.
Mentorship Program
This professional development program of mentoring and job shadowing provides mentees with an opportunity to be mentored by experienced staff with the objective of developing specific skills and knowledge that will enhance the participants' leadership skills and promote professional growth.
Succession Planning
The academies are offered to all employees including those that are not yet in a supervisory role, but are interested in becoming leaders within the organization as well as our executive management team who have an interest in honing their skills and helping to prepare our future leaders. In addition to multiple leadership academies, the City offers quarterly Speaker Series, a corporate Toastmasters club available for City employees, site tours of various departments, and more.
Deferred Compensation
Employees may participate in the City's 457 Deferred Compensation Plan sponsored by either Empower or CalPERS Supplemental Income. The plan enables employees to save salary and earn interest on a tax-deferred basis. A City match is available based upon representation.
The City also provides an IRS approved 401(a) plan sponsored by Empower for managers represented by Non-Represented Full-Time Management & Confidential (NMAC).
Post Employment Health Plan (PEHP)
Based upon your bargaining unit the City may participate in a PEHP plan that will provide reimbursement for out-of-pocket cost of qualified medical expenses such as prescription drugs, doctor co-pays, eyeglasses and cover the reimbursement of medical insurance premiums upon separation or retirement.
Holidays
The City offers seven (7) paid holidays per year. In addition, based upon your bargaining unit a bank of floating holiday hours is available to be used at the employee's discretion.
Vacation
The City initially offers two weeks of paid vacation per calendar year for all full time employees. Accrual rates increase thereafter based upon your bargaining unit.
Sick Leave
Sick leave shall accrue a rate of eight hours for each month of continuous service, or approximately two weeks per year for all full time employees. Employees may use up to half of their annually accrued sick leave for family illness and up to five days (40 hours) per calendar year for bereavement leave.
Management Leave
Management level employees may receive a prorated amount of management leave time each new calendar year.
Educational Incentive Program
In addition to regular pay when education is in addition to the regular requirements of the job specifications and is work related.
Tuition Reimbursement
Based on your bargaining unit, you may be reimbursed for tuition and book costs of approved job related courses. The maximum amount of tuition reimbursement in any calendar year will vary based upon your bargaining unit.
Auto Allowance
Management level employees may receive auto allowance based upon the need of the position.
Telephone/PDA Stipend
Management level employees may receive a telephone and/or PDA stipend based upon the need of the position.
Bilingual Pay
Bilingual pay is provided to employees who are required by their department head to use both English and Spanish in communicating with the public while performing the duties of his/her position and who demonstrate appropriate skills in both speaking and understanding the Spanish language shall receive compensation. The benefit amount varies per bargaining unit.
01
Indicate the number of years of professional work experience you have in the civil engineering field.

• 0-1 years
• 2-4 years
• 5-7 years
• More than 8 years

02
Select all licenses and/or certifications that you currently hold.

• Certificate of Registration as a Civil Engineer issued by the State Board of Registration for Civil Engineers
• Registered as a Licensed Land Surveyor
• Registered as a Licensed Traffic Engineer

03
List any other licenses and/or certifications that you currently hold that would be relevant to this position.
04
Summarize your experience in managing and delivering large-scale capital projects within the utilities sector, and describe your role within these projects.
Required Question