Description
The Position:
The Assistant/Associate Engineer in the Engineering Department of the Rubidoux Community Services District is a detail-oriented and enthusiastic Civil Engineer (EIT or PE) responsible for performing a variety of professional-level civil engineering duties. These responsibilities include planning, design, construction administration, and closeout of water and wastewater infrastructure projects. The position also involves developer coordination and oversight, including planning, coordination, and field observation. Additionally, the engineer participates in Capital Improvement Projects and ensures compliance with water quality regulations, permitting requirements, and reporting obligations. The role supports various operational functions of the District and involves both technical and project management tasks.
Distinguishing Characteristics:
The Assistant Engineer (EIT preferred) is an entry-level position with one or more years of civil engineering experience. Under close supervision from the Director of Engineering or general supervision and direction from the General Manager or Assistant General Manager, the Assistant Engineer learns and works within the framework of District policies and procedures. Position will involve most of the duties of the Associate Engineer at a lower complexity and less independent level. Work is supervised and reviewed until the Assistant Engineer demonstrates the ability to work independently and proficiently on a given task.
The Associate Engineer (P.E. required) is a licensed Professional Civil Engineer in the State of California with at least five (5) years of civil engineering experience. Under general supervision from the Director of Engineering, General Manager, or Assistant General Manager, the Associate Engineer works within the framework of District policies and procedures. The Associate Engineer demonstrates engineering expertise and sound engineering judgement in performing complex professional engineering tasks independently and proficiently. Position will involve most of the duties of the Assistant Engineer at a higher complexity and more independent level with the ability to exercise sound engineering judgement and implement industry practices. Work is generally supervised and reviewed until the Associate Engineer demonstrates the ability to work independently and proficiently on a given task.
Essential Functions:
The Engineering Division plays a central role in supporting customer needs, development activities, and the District’s Capital Improvement Projects (CIP). This includes planning, designing, and managing the construction of water and wastewater facilities. Engineers are responsible for preparing technical documents such as construction drawings, cost estimates, and specifications, as well as reviewing reports and calculations by others. They conduct research to determine design requirements, perform complex engineering analyses, and serve as project managers, ensuring that projects meet District standards and regulatory requirements. Field investigations, plan checks, customer coordination, and interdepartmental collaboration are also key responsibilities. In addition to engineering design and construction support, staff manage critical regulatory and permitting activities to ensure the District complies with a wide array of environmental and safety regulations. This includes preparing reports and coordinating with agencies such as the AQMD, RWQCB, quality, and stormwater management, and participate in audits and inspections. They also manage special studies and projects; process permit renewals and ensure that operational activities align with evolving regulatory requirements. Keeping up to date with changes in legislation and maintaining compliance tracking systems are also essential components of this role.
Employees in these roles are expected to represent the District in meetings with other agencies, conduct training for operators, and provide public presentations as needed. They serve as technical liaisons and maintain open communication with regulatory bodies, consultants, and the public. The position demands strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively while promoting the District’s values and ethical standards. Staff must be prepared to respond to emergency situations, meet physical and environmental demands of the role, and perform additional duties as assigned to support District goals.
Ability to:
The responsibilities of this position require the ability to accurately estimate material and equipment needs, as well as to evaluate potential construction and operational risks. This includes assessing project costs, identifying appropriate materials, and recommending mitigation measures to minimize impacts. Effective communication is critical, as the role involves making clear and concise presentations in public settings and producing well-written reports and documentation with proper grammar and syntax. Supporting engineering and operations project administration also requires maintaining accurate schedules and records while working independently with minimal supervision.
Professionalism and interpersonal skills are essential in dealing tactfully with the public and representatives from the construction industry. The ability to meet the physical demands of the job is necessary to perform required duties safely and efficiently. Establishing and maintaining positive work relationships is also vital, especially with individuals encountered during daily assignments. The position requires competence in using District computer systems, including software for spreadsheets, word processing, PDF editing (Bluebeam preferred), GIS, AutoCAD, and other relevant programs used in engineering and operations.
A strong understanding and application of federal, state, and local laws, regulations, policies, procedures, and standards relevant to the assigned responsibilities are essential. The role also demands excellent organizational skills, including the ability to independently set priorities, manage multiple deadlines, and ensure follow-through on assignments. Using sound judgment, tact, initiative, and prudence within established policies and legal guidelines is a key expectation, enabling effective and efficient decision-making in the course of work.
Requirements
Education and Experience:
Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. Additional course work in water related topics such as cross-connection, water treatment, and water distribution are highly desirable.
Assistant Engineer: Minimum of one (1) year in a civil engineering position.
Associate Engineer: Five (5) years of progressively responsible experience providing professional support to an engineering program or two (2) SWRCB, and EPA. Staff oversee compliance activities related to air quality, hazardous waste, water years of experience as a registered engineer at the Assistant Engineer level with the District.
License and Certification:
A valid California Driver’s License and the ability to maintain insurability under the District’s vehicle insurance policy.
Assistant Engineer: Maintains existing EIT or is able to secure EIT within the first year of employment.
Associate Engineer: Maintains a clear, active license as a Professional Civil Engineer in the State of California.
