Position

Under general supervision, plans, organizes, integrates and directs the activities and work of one or more major engineering division within the Engineering/Public Works Department(s), including the oversight of projects, staff and operations; and performs related duties as assigned.

This position will manage the sewer engineering Capital Improvement Program and oversee review of sewer Land Development engineering projects. The position exercises independent judgement through the interpretation of policies and standards in the performance of complex sewer program/project work. The incumbent serves as a supervisor over professional, technical, and clerical staff engaged in sewer utility civil engineering work. This is an "at-will" management position that serves at the pleasure of the Sewer Engineering Division Manager.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS

The Principal Engineer is responsible for managing one or more of several engineering divisions in the Engineering/Public Works Department(s). This job is distinguished from the Senior Engineer given that the scale of projects and programs that are managed are larger and more complex, and involve the supervision of Project Manager(s), Senior Engineer, Assistant Engineer and clerical staff. These positions are also responsible for proposing and managing division budgetary expenditures, including capital improvement programs.

The employee is expected to exercise significant independent judgment in matters related to operations, research, planning and control, and the development and interpretation of engineering policies and standards a majority of the time.

Examples of Essential Functions

Plans, organizes, controls, integrates and evaluates the work of an engineering division in the Engineering/Public Works Department; with subordinate supervisors and staff, develops, implements and monitors attainment of division goals and objectives. Participates in the development of and monitors performance against the annual division/unit budget; manages and directs the development, implementation and evaluation of plans, policies, systems and procedures to achieve annual goals, objectives and work standards. Plans and evaluates the performance of staff; establishes performance requirements and personal development targets; regularly monitors performance and takes disciplinary action to address performance deficiencies, in accordance with the City’s Personnel rules, policies and labor contract provisions. Manages the preparation of a variety of studies and reports relating to current and long-range City capital improvement needs and fixed assets; plans and directs project management activities for a variety of capital improvement and maintenance projects, including the preparation of plans, specifications, designs; estimates, and schedules; establishes conditions of approval; coordinates inspections and project monitoring programs. Plans and evaluates the performance of staff; establishes performance requirements and personal development targets; regularly monitors performance and takes disciplinary action to address performance deficiencies, in accordance with the City’s Personnel rules, policies and labor contract provisions. Manages the preparation of a variety of studies and reports relating to current and long-range City capital improvement needs and fixed assets; plans and directs project management activities for a variety of capital improvement and maintenance projects, including the preparation of plans, specifications, designs; estimates, and schedules; establishes conditions of approval; coordinates inspections and project monitoring programs. Provides technical assistance to staff; reviews and evaluates plans for proposed assessment and maintenance districts and related bond and fee requirements; reviews subdivision and development proposals. Manages and administers operations, activities and programs in compliance with accepted federal, state and municipal standards governing public works construction, public utilities construction, and engineering surveying; manages plan check tracking systems. Reviews, analyzes, and recommends changes to the City construction policies and procedures; recommends and coordinates design changes, where appropriate. Keeps informed and up to date on current construction design techniques, changes in codes and regulations, new construction materials and methods. Works with developers, contractors, engineers, architects, and others regarding unusual construction and compliance problems. Ensures the maintenance of detailed records of division activities, findings, and results; ensures the timely and accurate completion of all required topographic and construction engineering surveys and performs related work as required.

Minimum Qualifications

Any combination of training, education and experience which demonstrates an ability to perform the duties of the position is qualifying.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE:

A typical combination background is a Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or a closely related field with major course work in civil engineering. Five (5) years of professional engineering experience, preferably involving several years in a lead or administrative capacity; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. For this opening, 10 years of experience, including three (3) years of supervisory experience is preferred.

License or Certificate:

• A valid California Class C Driver’s License drivers license with a satisfactory driving record.
• A valid certificate of registration as a Professional Civil Engineer (P.E.) issued by the California State Board of Registration for Civil and Professional Engineers.

KNOWLEDGE OF:

• Subdivision Map Act, California Environmental Quality Act, and Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors Act.
• Management and supervisory principles and practices, including budgeting, goals and objectives development, and work planning principles.
• Principles and practices of civil engineering development, special districts administration, and public works construction.
• Federal, state and local codes and regulations governing public works and building construction.
• Trends, approaches and problem-solving techniques used in construction engineering and inspection and compliance processes.
• Local government organization and service delivery, as related to assigned managerial area of responsibility.
• Modern design and construction methods for utility repair and rehabilitation.
• Techniques, equipment and materials used in public works construction projects.
• GIS systems and technology.
• Engineering survey principles, techniques, mathematics, and procedures.
• Public works operations procedures and management.

SKILL IN:

• Operating a vehicle observing legal and defensive driving practices.

ABILITY TO:

• Operate a computer terminal and use word processing, spreadsheet, graphics and related software programs; operate a calculator and standard office equipment.
• Plan, organize, supervise, train and evaluate the work of professional, technical, and administrative support staff.
• Prepare and administer division budget and anticipate future budget needs.
• Communicate effectively, either orally or in writing.
• Interact with City officials, media, citizens groups, employees and others encountered in the course of work.
• Perform mathematical computations and apply mathematical reasoning.
• Interpret and apply complex rules, regulations, laws and ordinances.
• Analyze technical design engineering, construction engineering, and surveying problems, evaluate alternative approaches, and adopt effective solutions.
• Manage projects to adhere to project budgets, timelines, and specifications.
• Prepare detailed written material, including staff and administrative reports analysis of policies, proposed code amendments, and changes to established programs and policies.
• Exercise sound, independent judgment and initiative within established guidelines.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, management, contractors, developers, consultant, public and private representatives and others encountered in the course of the work.

Other Information

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this class. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this class, the employee is regularly required to communicate effectively verbally and in a written manner; observe and interpret data, and analyze and solve problems. The employee must be able to work indoor office environments/outdoor in the field environments (depending on position). The employee may have to move up to 50 lbs. and transport up to 10 lbs. objects frequently (depending on position). Vision abilities required by this job include the ability to detect, determine, perceive, identify, estimate, and assess work related objects and/or work products based on position specific designated tasks. The employee may be required to work overtime to complete assignments. Must be able to work a flexible schedule. Use of personal vehicle during employment may also be required.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE:
A City application form and supplemental questionnaire must be submitted and received by the closing date. Application materials may be obtained by applying online at www.cityofvista.com. Please call (760) 726-1340 or (760) 643-5376 for questions.

SELECTION PROCESS:
Candidates must clearly demonstrate through their application materials that they meet the employment standards outlined above. All properly completed applications will be reviewed, and the most appropriately qualified individuals will be invited to continue in the selection process. Examinations for the position may consist of any combination of written, performance, and oral exams to evaluate the applicant's skill, training, and experience for the position. Successful applicants will be placed on an eligibility list. The City may also merge lists. The selected candidate(s) must successfully complete pre-employment clearances which may include a physical, drug screen, and fingerprinting.

NOTE: The provisions of this announcement do not constitute an expressed or implied contract, and any provisions contained in the announcement may be modified or revoked without notice.

The City of Vista is an Equal Opportunity employer. Veterans welcome!

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS :
Recruitment Closes - EXTENDED - OPEN UNTIL FILLED
Virtual Interview Panel - TBD
Please note, all dates are subject to change.

VACATION

125 Hrs. - 1-5 years of continuous service

149 Hrs. - 6-9 years

165 Hrs. - 10-20 years

178 Hrs. - 21+

ADMIN. LEAVE

60 Hours annually (Management)

SICK LEAVE

96 hours per year

HOLIDAYS

Employees working the 9/80 flex schedule are entitled to 99 hours of holiday leave per fiscal year.

INSURANCE

Excellent benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance programs. A portion of the employee's and dependent's premiums are paid by the City.

WELLNESS PROGRAMMING

The City offers comprehensive wellness programming to its employees including onsite wellness facilities and onsite wellness sessions.

TUITION REIMBURSEMENT

The City's Tuition Reimbursement Plan may assist employees in paying the cost of approved books and tuition for classes which relate to their job.

RETIREMENT

Depending on eligibility, based on CalPERS criteria, new employees will be provided the 3% @ 60 Plan or newly established 2% @ 62 Plan. Employees currently contribute the entire employee contribution amount of 8%.

The City does not participate in Social Security, but employees must be enrolled in the Medicare portion.