Assistant Engineer/Associate Engineer/Associate Civil Engineer

Job Description:

Assistant Engineer/Associate Engineer/Associate Civil Engineer

Description

Description/Special Instructions

The City of Elk Grove is now accepting applications for the position of

ASSISTANT/ASSOCIATE/ASSOCIATE CIVIL ENGINEER

Assistant Engineer: $91,010 - $121,977 Annually

Associate Engineer: $100,555 - $134,768 Annually

Associate Civil Engineer: $105,695 - $141,656 Annually

If you are someone who wants to make a direct impact in the work they do, naturally embraces working in a team-based environment, is organized, resourceful, and understands the importance of tact and diplomacy when serving the public, consider a career with the City of Elk Grove Public Works Department! The Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Division within the Public Works Department oversees the design, permitting, bidding and award of the City's CIP projects. The CIP offers a wide range of exciting and challenging projects, including large roadway segments with new bridges, roundabouts, roads, new freeway interchanges, pedestrian overcrossings, active transportation enhancements, complete streets, drainage, and facilities projects.

The Public Works Department is looking to fill an Associate Civil Engineer and Assistant Engineer position in the Capital Improvement Program Division and is seeking Licensed and aspiring Engineers with relevant experience to apply! These are deep class positions in which incumbents may be assigned to any level provided they possess the required education, license, and experience for the class to which they are assigned. The ideal candidate will be experienced in professional engineering assignments including design development and delivery of public works infrastructure projects. This candidate must possess expertise in multiple civil engineering-related functions; knowledge of architectural and facility project development, principles and practices of planning, environmental, right of way, design, and construction as applied to public works projects; and is experienced with processes and procedures associated with federal and state funding requirements, and applicable federal and state laws and standards governing construction of public works projects.

Tentative Recruitment Timeline (subject to change)
Filing Deadline: August 4, 2026, by 11:59 PM
Oral Board Interviews: August 12, 2026 (virtual)
Selection Interviews: August 24, 2026 (in person) The City offers a competitive salary and generous benefit package including CalPERS retirement benefits, a deferred compensation match and more. Why work for the City of Elk Grove ? Elk Grove Jobs
Community Profile
Elk Grove is a vibrant, family-friendly community of approximately 178,124 people in the Sacramento, California region, located 14 miles south of the State Capital and 60 miles east of the Bay Area. Elk Grove is a young, ethnically diverse, modern city that was incorporated in 2000. Elk Grove has low crime, excellent schools, over 100 community parks and 28 miles of trails, plentiful dining and shopping options, numerous annual events and festivals, and over 270 sunny days per year.

Representative Duties

DEFINITION
Under general supervision (Assistant Engineer) to direction (Associate Engineer/Associate Civil Engineer) performs sub-professional (unlicensed) to professional (licensed) field and office engineering work related to the planning, design, construction and maintenance of the City’s Capital Improvement Program, land development, drainage, construction management, traffic, facilities and infrastructure; performs project management and administration; confers with developers, contractors, and representatives of other agencies regarding facility and infrastructure development; administers professional services and construction contracts; provides professional staff assistance to management, other departments, and the public in areas of expertise; conducts a variety of engineering studies and prepares and presents reports; and performs related duties as assigned. Duties may vary depending on the assigned department and division as described in the job functions section.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Receives general supervision (Assistant Engineer) to direction (Associate Engineer/Associate Civil Engineer) from assigned management or supervisory personnel. Exercises no direct supervision over staff.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS
Assistant Engineer: This is the entry level classification in the professional Engineer classification series. Initially under close supervision, incumbents learn and perform routine engineering and project management work. As experience is gained, assignments become more varied, complex, and difficult. Close supervision and frequent review of work lessen as an incumbent demonstrates skill to perform the work independently. Positions at this level usually perform most of the duties required of positions at the Associate-level, but are not expected to function at the same skill level and usually exercise less independent discretion and judgment in matters related to work procedures and methods. Work is usually supervised while in progress and fits an established structure or pattern. Exceptions or changes in procedures are explained in detail as they arise.

Associate Engineer/Associate Civil Engineer: This is the journey level classification in the professional Engineer classification series. Positions at this level are distinguished from the Assistant-level by the performance of the full range of duties as assigned, working independently, and exercising judgment and initiative. Positions at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit. The Associate Engineer is distinguished from the Associate Civil Engineer in that the latter requires registration as a Professional Civil Engineer. The Associate Civil Engineer is distinguished from the Senior Civil Engineer in that latter is the advanced journey and/or lead level classification in the series and is responsible for organizing, assigning and reviewing the work of assigned staff in addition to performing the most complex professional engineering work.

Positions in the professional Engineer class series are flexibly staffed and positions at the Associate-level are normally filled by advancement from the next lower level upon management approval, after gaining the knowledge, skill, and experience which meet the qualifications for and after demonstrating the ability to perform the work of the higher-level class, subject to budgetary funds.

EXAMPLES OF TYPICAL JOB FUNCTIONS (Illustrative Only)
Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.

Some duties, knowledge, skills, and abilities may be performed/exercised in a learning capacity for entry-level (Assistant) positions.

• Coordinates assigned projects and activities with other City departments, local jurisdictions and agencies, and regional, state, and federal agencies.
• Researches, analyzes, and reviews legislative proposals and new code requirements, construction methods, building materials, and plan review criteria; develops recommendations for policy and procedure changes and implements upon approval.
• Confers with developers, engineers, architects, and contractors and other City staff in acquiring information and coordinating engineering matters; provides information regarding City project requirements and City policies, procedures, codes, and ordinances.
• Participates in the Standards Review Committee; meets with City staff and management to review, revise and update City standards and documents related to Engineering.
• Prepares and presents technical project and staff reports to various committees, commissions, and at public meetings and hearings; prepares a variety of written reports, memoranda, and correspondence; ensures the proper documentation of projects and activities; coordinates maintenance and update of project information.
• Attends and participates in meetings, conferences, workshops, and training sessions.
• Performs related duties as assigned.
  
• Provides complex technical support for all phases of capital improvement and public works construction projects including planning, feasibility evaluation, coordination of environmental review, design, construction, and close-out.
• Assists with project development activities, including project management, preparing or reviewing preliminary and final designs and specifications, developing requests for proposals and scopes of work, cost estimates, change orders, work plans, budgets, schedules, and baseline requirements, and contract negotiations and management.
• Reviews construction plans prepared in-house and by outside consultants or private contractors to verify compliance with City, State, Federal, and/or industry standards and requirements for construction infrastructure; checks plans for conformance with regulations regarding line, grade, size, elevation, and location of structures; reviews engineering calculations of other engineers or engineering technicians; participates in pre-design, construction, and utility coordination meetings.
• Conducts engineering studies and cost analyses for assigned projects; researches project design requirements; prepares engineering calculations and estimates, preliminary layouts and specifications, and design work from field and survey data.
• Researches funding opportunities; coordinates and/or completes and submits grant applications; tracks grant funded projects and requirements; processes and maintains paperwork and reimbursement requests in compliance with funding and reporting requirements.

Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge of:

• Civil engineering principles and practices applied to the field of municipal public works or private development, including planning and development, design, construction, operation and maintenance.
• Principles and practices of project budgeting, cost estimation, funding, project management, and contract negotiation and administration.
• Methods, materials, and techniques used in building construction.
• General design, layout, and construction practices for public improvements such as storm drain, street improvements, traffic signals, public works facilities, and building structures.
• Engineering plan types, review practices, and permit filing and approval procedures.
• Principles of advanced mathematics and their application to engineering work.
• Practices of researching engineering and design issues, evaluating alternatives, making sound recommendations, and preparing technical reports.
• Principles and procedures of record keeping.
• Applicable federal, state, and local laws, codes, and regulations as well as industry standards and best practices pertinent to the assigned area of responsibility.
• Techniques for effectively representing the City in contacts with governmental agencies, community groups, and various business, professional, educational, regulatory, and legislative organizations.
• Recent and on-going developments, current literature, and sources of information related to the operations of the assigned division.
• Methods and techniques of preparing technical and administrative reports, and general business correspondence.
• City and mandated safety rules, regulations, and protocols.
• Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and City staff.
• Diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging concepts and principles, including their significance in organizational dynamics and the functioning of the City and their impact on fostering innovation and collaboration.
• The structure and content of the English language, including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
• Current equipment and communication tools used for business functions and program, project, and task coordination, including computers and software programs relevant to work performed.

Ability to:

• Perform sub-professional and or professional engineering duties involved in the planning, design, development, and of a variety of capital improvement projects.
• Conduct engineering studies and research projects, evaluate alternatives, make sound recommendations, and prepare effective staff and technical reports; present technical engineering information and data in an effective manner.
• Prepare, understand, and interpret engineering construction plans, technical drawings and designs, specifications, as-builts, permits, contract documents, environmental and engineering reports, and other technical documents.
• Perform mathematical and engineering computations with precision.
• Coordinate services with other departments and agencies and federal and state agencies.
• Respond to complaints or inquiries from the community, staff, and outside organizations.
• Understand, interpret, and apply all pertinent laws, codes, regulations, policies and procedures, and standards relevant to work performed.
• Prepare clear, effective, and accurate reports, correspondence, and other written materials.
• Maintain accurate logs, records, and written records of work performed.
• Independently organize work, set priorities, meet critical deadlines, and follow-up on assignments.
• Effectively use computer systems, software applications relevant to work performed, and modern business equipment to perform a variety of work tasks.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, using appropriate English grammar and syntax.
• Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy and procedural guidelines.
• Engage with a diverse public and workforce, facilitating inclusive service delivery, and implementing equitable city policies.
• Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Education and Experience:

• Assistant Engineer/Associate Engineer/Associate Civil Engineer: A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in engineering or a related field.
• Associate Engineer/Associate Civil Engineer: Three (3) years of increasingly responsible engineering experience equivalent to an Assistant Engineer with the City of Elk Grove.

Licenses and Certifications:

• Assistant Engineer/Associate Engineer/Associate Civil Engineer: Possession of, or ability to obtain by the time of appointment, an appropriate, valid California driver’s license. This requirement may be waived for individuals who are unable to obtain a driver’s license due to a disability.
• Associate Civil Engineer : Possession of a valid registration as a Professional Civil Engineer issued by the State of California. If a registered Professional Civil Engineer in another state, the ability to obtain registration as a Professional Civil Engineer in the State of California within one (1) year of appointment.

Retired Annuitants: This is a regular full-time position. Retired Annuitants are not eligible for appointment to this position under Government Code Sections 7522.56, 21224, 21227, and 21229. Retired CalPERS members may apply only if they are planning to voluntarily reinstate from retirement.


Employment Sponsorship:
This position is not eligible for H-1B visa sponsorship or any other type of employment-based visa sponsorship

Physical Demands and Work Environment

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

When assigned to an office environment:

Must possess mobility to work in a standard office setting and use standard office equipment, including a computer, and to operate a motor vehicle to visit various City and meeting sites; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; and hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone. Standing in and walking between work areas is frequently required . Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator and to operate standard office equipment. Positions in this classification frequently bend, stoop, kneel, and reach to perform assigned duties, as well as push and pull drawers open and closed to retrieve and file information. Employees must possess the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects up to 10 pounds. Reasonable accommodations will be made for individuals with disabilities who are qualified to perform essential functions of a position or positions within this classification.

When assigned to a field environment:

Must possess mobility to sit, stand, and walk on level, uneven, or slippery surfaces; to reach, twist, turn, kneel, bend, stoop, squat, crouch, and grasp; strength, stamina, and mobility to perform light physical work; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; and hearing and speech to communicate in person, before groups, and over the telephone or radio. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator and to operate the above -mentioned tools and equipment. Employees must possess the ability to lift, materials and objects weighing up to 15 pounds, or heavier weights with the use of proper equipment and assistance from other staff. The work requires wear and use of proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Reasonable accommodations will be made for individuals with disabilities who are qualified to perform essential functions of a position or positions within this classification.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

Employees work in an office environment with moderate noise levels, controlled temperature conditions, and no direct exposure to hazardous physical substances. Employees also work in the field and occasionally are exposed to loud noise levels, cold and hot temperatures, inclement weather conditions, road hazards, vibration, mechanical and/or electrical hazards, and hazardous chemical substances and fumes. Employees may interact with members of the public or with staff under emotionally stressful conditions while interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures.

FLSA Status:

Assistant Engineer : Non-Exempt

Associate Engineer /Associate Civil Engineer : Exempt

The information listed above is subject to change and does not constitute either an expressed or implied contract. The City of Elk Grove is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating a work environment in which all individuals are treated with respect and professionalism. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, should special accommodations be necessary at any stage of the selection process, please contact the Human Resources Department at (916) 478-2230. City of Elk Grove participates in E-Verify to confirm the employment eligibility of all new hires.



Closing Date/Time: 8/4/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

Salary:

$91,010.00 - $141,656.00 Annually