*DESIGN ENGINEER
Pay Range GC24

INTRODUCTION

This classification is responsible for directing design activities for public works construction projects and functions as a senior-level technical resource for problem analysis and design review.

EXAMPLES OF PRINCIPAL DUTIES

(Duties assigned to this classification include, but are not limited to, the following examples.)

1. Provide technical supervision for the data collection, engineering analysis, cost estimating and preparation of plans and specifications for water, sewer and solid waste facilities, roads, bridges, buildings and other public works projects; review solid waste facility operational practices and recommend changes.

2. Work with individual property owners in the evaluation and solution of engineering problems; represent the department at public meetings involving engineering responsibility.

3. Recommend and implement budgets; monitor budget and schedule performance.

4. Develop and review design standard drawings; update standards to accommodate general design practices of public works projects.

5. Coordinate engineering studies and plans performed by consultants; review consultant agreements to assure adherence to standards and compatibility with vested interests; act as liaison between consultants and affected county agencies; review work in progress and recommend acceptance or modifications.

6. May supervise assigned staff in the performance of design development activities; plan, organize, coordinate and review work.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILL AND ABILITY REQUIRED BY THIS POSITION

Knowledge of: Thorough knowledge of civil engineering principles, practices and procedures; thorough knowledge of mathematics related to civil engineering; considerable knowledge of laws, rules, codes, regulations and ordinances related to engineering projects; considerable knowledge of environmental science, biology, ground water chemistry and applicable environmental regulations; considerable knowledge of engineering field practices relating to surveying and project layout. Skill in: Preparing and reviewing project plans and estimating materials and labor costs; conducting research and technical report writing; the use of scientific calculators; processing information on a computer. Ability to: Communicate effectively in both oral and written forms; interpret engineering plans and develop contract specifications; develop and review comprehensive construction project plans, budgets and schedules; make decisions independently in accordance with established policies and procedures, establish new policies when applicable, and use initiative and judgment in completing tasks and responsibilities; establish and maintain recordkeeping systems and reports; conduct research and compile and analyze technical data; utilize problem identification and resolution techniques; remain calm and use good judgment during confrontational or high pressure situations; plan, organize, assign, coordinate and review work of staff; courteously meet and deal effectively with other employees and organizations, private engineers and consultants, regulatory agencies, utility districts and the public.

Education, experience and training: Bachelors degree in civil engineering or a related field and four years engineering experience, two of which involve lead or supervisory responsibility OR Associate degree in civil engineering or a related field and six years engineering experience, two of which involve lead or supervisory responsibility OR eight years engineering experience, two of which involve lead or supervisory responsibility OR a satisfactory equivalent combination of education, experience or training. Must possess Professional Engineer registration or be able to obtain registration within six months of employment. At time of appointment, must possess a valid Oregon driver's license.

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS OF THIS POSITION

Work is performed under general direction from the division engineer. Recurring routine assignments are independently performed by employee on basis of past experience. Employee receives general instructions regarding scope of and approach to projects or assignments, but procedures and problem resolution are left to employee discretion and interpretation. Work is reviewed periodically to ensure determinations and decisions made are in accordance to department policy and procedures.

GUIDELINES

Work is performed within departmental policy and procedures, federal, state, county and local statutes, rules, regulations and ordinances; standards as applied to civil engineering and surveying; engineering manuals; construction specifications manuals; safety manuals and supplier specifications. Employee uses a considerable amount of judgment in interpreting and developing guidelines.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT

Regular and consistent attendance is required.  Work is performed in an office environment with occasional field investigation; may involve climbing at project sites, hearing voice conversation, keyboarding and walking. A reasonable amount of driving is required.