Assistant Public Works Director/City Engineer

PURPOSE, SCOPE AND WORKING RELATIONSHIPS:

The Assistant Engineer/Public Works Director supports the planning, design, and oversight of municipal infrastructure projects and assists in managing the Public Works Department. This position plays a key role in ensuring the effective and efficient delivery of public services, such as water, sewer, road maintenance, and other infrastructure projects. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in civil engineering, project management, and public administration.

Reports to: Public Works Director/City Engineer

Supervises: Streets, Parks, and Janitorial Staff, Water and Wastewater Superintendents

Works with: City Staff, various City Committees, Community Organizations, State and Federal Agencies, contractors, architects, business and industrial owners and the general public.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Engineering and Design:

• Assist in planning and designing infrastructure projects such as roadways, drainage systems, water, and sewer facilities.
• Prepare engineering studies, technical reports, and design plans.
• Ensure all projects comply with local, state, and federal regulations and standards.
• Assist in reviewing plans, specifications, and engineering documents submitted by external engineers and contractors.

Project Management:

• Manage assigned public works projects from inception to completion, including budgeting, scheduling, and coordinating with contractors.
• Conduct field inspections and monitor construction projects to ensure adherence to approved plans, specifications, and timelines.
• Provide technical support and recommendations to the Public Works Director, City Administrator, and other departments.

Department Support and Leadership:

• Assist in managing daily operations of the Public Works Department, including supervising field staff, coordinating maintenance, and ensuring proper use of resources.
• Serve as acting Public Works Director in their absence.
• Oversee the preparation of requests for proposals (RFPs) and bids for public works projects.
• Provide support in managing department budgets, including capital improvement projects, operational costs, and personnel expenditures.
• Monitor and evaluate employee performance and conduct employee evaluations.

Customer Service and Communication:

• Respond to public inquiries, complaints, and concerns regarding public works services.
• Communicate effectively with the public, city officials, and external agencies.
• Attend and present at public meetings and hearings related to public works projects.

Regulatory Compliance and Safety:

• Ensure all work is performed in compliance with safety regulations and industry standards.
• Assist in developing and implementing departmental policies and procedures to improve efficiency and safety.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

· Knowledge of engineering principles and practices.

· Knowledge of supervisory practices and techniques.

· Knowledge of MN DOT State Aid Manual.

· Knowledge of NPDES permit procedures.

· Knowledge of MPCA specifications and MDH specifications.

· Knowledge of MN DOT permits and R/R permits.

· Knowledge of ADA and OSHA requirements.

· Ability to manage time and plan and direct the work of subordinates.

· Skill in operating engineering storm sewer, sanitary sewer and computer programs.

· Skill in operating drafting equipment, engineering scales, and a variety of computer software application such as word processing and computer aided drafting.

· Proficiency in AutoCAD, GIS, and other engineering and project management software.

· Thorough knowledge of the methods, tools, equipment and practices of public works and parks construction, maintenance, and repairs.

· Thorough knowledge of the City streets, sanitary and storm sewer collection systems, water distribution systems and park facilities.

· Considerable knowledge of the types, uses and repair of heavy, medium, and light construction equipment commonly used in public works and parks operations; and automotive and related equipment required in the maintenance of streets and parks.

· Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

· Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Public Administrator, or a related field.

· Minimum of 3 years of progressive experience in civil engineering, public works, or a related field, including supervisory experience.

• Minimum of 3 years’ experience in the construction, maintenance, and repair of comparable infrastructure, including supervisory experience.

· Professional Engineer (PE) license within one year of hire.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS:

· Experience working with MN Department of Transportation (MNDOT); Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) and the MN Department of Health (MDH)

• Two or more years’ experience with snow removal including route planning and coordination.
• Two or more years’ experience as a supervisor or lead in a municipal, county, or state public works department.
• Familiarity with natural resource management, including sensitive ecosystems, comprehensive park and land use planning and the role of public spaces in developing a sense of community.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $100,817.00 - $120,411.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift

Work Location: In person

Salary : $100,817 - $120,411