Assistant Director - Utilities Engineering

Assistant Director - Utilities Engineering

Salary

$162,445.16 - $224,172.20 Annually

Location

Bellevue City Hall, 450 110th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA

Job Type

Regular

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

26-00257

Department

Utilities

Division

UT Engineering

Opening Date

08/10/2026

Closing Date

8/31/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

FLSA

Exempt

Bargaining Unit

NONAFF

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Come Join the City of Bellevue!

Please fill out your application as fully as possible. The City evaluates candidates based on the information provided in the online application only. Do not submit resumes and cover letters. Read the "Hiring Process" section below to learn more.

New hires typically receive between minimum and midpoint, however, we may go slightly higher based on experience, internal equity and market.

Job Summary

Bellevue Utilities provides high quality, essential drinking water, wastewater, and storm and surface water services that over 150,000 customers rely on every day. We take pride in making sure these services are dependable, a good value for the money, and delivered with our customers in mind. Our Utility Capital Investment Program invests $49 Million annually in infrastructure renewal, capacity for growth, and environmental preservation projects to ensure customer service and satisfaction remain high.

We are currently seeking an experienced Assistant Director to lead our Engineering Division. The Assistant Director is a member of the Bellevue Utilities executive team, collaborating to lead the department in achieving its strategic, operational, and financial goals. The Engineering Assistant Director is responsible for overseeing an $7.952 million operating budget and delivery of the Utilities $296 million, 6-year Capital Investment Program (CIP) encompassing drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater CIP projects.In addition, this position collaborates with the Utilities Director, two Deputy Directors, the Resource Management & Customer Service Division Assistant Director, and the Operations & Maintenance Division Assistant Director to plan, develop, and implement policies and programs to achieve strategic outcomes. The Engineering Assistant Director manages highly complex technical and policy work, assisting the Deputy Directors andDirector ofUtilities intheleadership andmanagement ofthe department. This position reports directly to the Utilities Deputy Director for Engineering and Operations.

At the City of Bellevue, youll be part of a team committed to providing exceptional customer service, upholding the public interest, achieving the community vision and providing our customers fiscal stewardship. Our people bring unique skills and qualities to the table, embrace the values of honesty, accountability, and commitment to service, and take pride in the work they do. Youll work in an environment where being innovative, collaborative, and future focused are the status quo. Bellevue welcomes the world and we embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion for the community that we serve as well as within our City organization. Its what makes the City of Bellevue an exciting place to work, live, and explore.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• The Assistant Director works with Deputy Directors and Director to develop department policies by identifying regional and local policy needs; identifying/recommending policy options for City management and Council; develops programs/procedures to implement policies.
• Reviews and obtains proper interpretations, where necessary, of the laws, rules and regulations affecting operation of a multi-faceted utilities system.
• Establishes and maintains a working environment conducive to positive morale, individual style, quality, creativity, and teamwork.
• Oversees a team of engineering managers responsible for recruiting, hiring, training, and developing staff in the areas of planning, CIP portfolio management, capital project management and design, construction management, and development plan review.
• Allocates, directs, motivates and evaluates division personnel to ensure employees growth and accountability.
• Uses performance data objectively to maintain and improve Utilities functions. Establishes and leads results-oriented innovation and continuous process improvement projects.
• Plan, develop and implement programs; identifies program outcomes, budgets, processes and priorities; obtains resources via budget, contracting, inter-local agreements, etc.
• Negotiates and administers contracts and professional services agreements with contractors, consultants, and franchise operators.
• Develops interdepartmental and/or partnerships with outside stakeholders.
• Prepares and presents oral and written reports and responses to the department director, City Council, or other city departments, the Environmental Services Commission, regional committees and subcommittees, and the public, as required.
• This position may serve as Acting Director in the absence of the Deputy Directors and Director of Utilities.

Reporting Structure:

The Assistant Director, Engineering, works under the general supervision of Deputy Director and/or Director of Utilities. This position exercises supervision over professional, technical, and support staff, either directly or indirectly through supervisors and managers, as assigned.

KEY FUNCTIONS

Provide leadership to the Utilities Department:

• Implement Citys and Utilities vision and mission; Support Utilities Strategic Planning;
• Ensure quality of services, sound financial performance, and customer satisfaction;
• Manage resolution of major departmental issues;
• Create collaborative work environment and open communication;
• Model core values, work rules, and Utilities Department culture;
• Support department leadership team decisions and optimize organizational dynamics.

Manage Utilities Engineering Division:

• Provide leadership and management oversight of ~50 staff members, comprised primarily of technical staff (Engineering Managers and Supervisors, Asset Manager, Engineers, Program Administrators, Construction Inspectors, Engineering Technicians, and Environmental Scientists).
• Lead budget development, analysis, and monitoring for the Engineering Division;
• Provide leadership and management of the following sections: Utility Systems Planning, CIP Portfolio Management and Administration, Asset Management, Project Management, Construction Management, and Private Development Utilities Plan Review.
• Provide leadership coordination with other Utilities Divisions and other departments in the City.

Qualifications

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

• Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a degree in civil engineering, environmental studies, water resources management, construction management, or related field. An MS Engineering or MPA is preferred.
• Eight or more years of progressively responsible managerial and administrative experience in public utilities systems.
• 10 years experience developing and delivering Capital Investment Programs, including management of planning, design and construction for municipal utility projects with at least 5 years of experience in each utility (water, wastewater, stormwater), or a program of similar scope/complexity (at least $15 Million/year Capital program value). (highly preferred)
• Experience/knowledge about Utility operations and maintenance, system planning, and public works consultant and construction contracting laws, regulations, and work processes.
• Experience/knowledge about environmental issues and permitting associated with utility work is highly desirable.
• Or any equivalent combination of education, experience and training that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
• Washington State Professional Civil Engineering license is required at the time of hire.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIREMENTS

• Demonstrated knowledge of and experience in utility systems planning, engineering design, professional services and construction contracting, construction and operations/maintenance of drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure systems.
• Proven ability to plan, supervise and coordinate long range technical and administrative programs.
• Knowledge of CIP budget development, project delivery monitoring and control including project change management and value engineering principles, portfolio management, and CIP delivery governance processes.
• Ability to express self clearly, completely, and concisely, orally, and in writing. Ability to listen and question effectively to better understand customer/employee needs and requests to ensure mutual understanding. Ability to prepare and deliver presentations to various audiences.
• Ability to communicate effectively and encourage people to accept changes in the organization. Ability to model positive attitudes towards change to reassure others.
• Ability to interpret legislation, rules and regulations. Demonstrated understanding of federal and state regulations for public utility systems of the size/scale of Bellevue Utilities.
• Understanding of Citys political environment and sensitivities; and proven ability to function effectively within that environment. Demonstrated experience representing politically sensitive or otherwise high-profile Utility issues to elected body and executive manager (City Manager)
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with department employees, other City departments, community officials, citizens, State and Federal officials. Proven success in a collaborative environment, working with Financial and Operations and Maintenance (O&M) stakeholders to achieve Utility objectives.
• Firm understanding, support, and experience with applying Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) principles and practices for both internal staff and external customers.
• Demonstrated experience successfully negotiating terms for collaboration with other jurisdictions/entities.
• Successful experience in public engagement.
• Proven ability to plan, assign, review, and supervise the work of direct reports. Ability to provide leadership, counsel, motivation and constructive performance reviews to staff, securing their respective commitments to the departments goals.
• Proven success as a leader, based on input from past subordinates, peers, and supervisors.
• Ability to create team environment in which information and trust flows freely both up and down the workforce.

Supplemental Information

WORKING CONDITIONS & PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• Work involves walking, talking, hearing, using hands to handle, feel or operate objects, tools, or controls, and reaching with hands and arms. Vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus.
• The noise level in the work environment is usually moderately quiet while in the office or moderately loud when in the field.

Flexible/Hybrid Working:

A hybrid work schedule is available for this position after an orientation period working in the office after hire. Remote work for this position is subject to departments operational needs and will be discussed with candidates during the selection process. Full-time remote work is not an available option. Once hired, employees must reside in the State of Washington and within reasonable commuting distance to Bellevue City Hall.

HIRING PROCESS

The City evaluates candidates based on the information provided in the online application only. Do not submit resumes and cover letters. To evaluate all candidates fairly and equitably, the City will make all applicants anonymous when we are screening the applications. We will redact information from our application such as your name, address, and other demographics. To help us, please complete the online application form as fully as possible.

• Answer the Supplemental Questions when requested which can be found on the Questions tab of the Job posting.
• We do not accept resumes and cover letters during the anonymous application screening stage, unless otherwise stated in the job description.
• Applicants advancing to the next stage may be required to provide a cover letter, resume, writing sample, and references.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

• All candidates will be required to establish employment authorization and identity at the time of hire. The City is not able to sponsor work visas.
• All positions require the completion of references checks, including at least one prior supervisor.
• Some positions may require completion of a criminal background check prior to start employment
• Some positions may require obtaining a commercial drivers license (CDL), licensures, or additional certifications.

At the City of Bellevue, youll be part of a team committed to providing exceptional customer service, upholding the public interest and advancing the community vision. The six essential and enduring principles that guide our individual actions, our interactions, and our decision making in the City of Bellevue organization is: Exceptional Public Service, Stewardship, Commitment to Employees, Integrity, Innovation, and Diversity, Equity & Inclusion. Youll work in an environment that is innovative, collaborative, future focused, and committed to excellence. Bellevue welcomes the world. Our diversity is our strength. We embrace the future while respecting our past. Its what makes the City of Bellevue an exciting place to work, live, and explore.

Have we piqued your interest yet? Come join our team! The City of Bellevue supports workplace diversity. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, genetic information, disability, age, veteran status, or any other protected status. Persons needing assistance with the application process may call the Human Resources Office, at 425-452-6838 or recruiting@bellevuewa.gov. If you are invited to participate in the selection process and need ADA accommodations, please notify HR before you are scheduled for an interview or testing.

The City of Bellevue participates in the E-Verify program. Learn more about the E-Verify program.

https://www.e-verify.gov/sites/default/files/IER_RightToWorkPoster.pdf

https://www.e-verify.gov/sites/default/files/everify/posters/IER_RighttoWorkPosterES.pdf

For any technical difficulties with your application, please contact the NEOGOV support line at 855-524-5627.

Please be sure to check your junk folder for any messages that may be sent to you about this recruitment.

The City of Bellevue offers employees a comprehensive benefits package providing choice, flexibility, and value!

Please Note: Seasonal, part-time, and variable employees are not eligible for the below benefits except for mandatory participation in the retirement plan assigned to the position, which will be the Municipal Employees Benefit Trust (MEBT 2) retirement plan or the Washington State Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) retirement plan and any other benefits as required by law.

The following summary applies to fully benefited positions:

Medical

Employees are offered a choice of medical coverage through the Citys self-insured Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plan or Kaiser Permanente (HMO).

Dental

Employees are offered a choice of two dental carriers with plans that offer regular checkups, x-rays, fillings, and crowns. Orthodontia is available through one of the carriers.

Vision

Employees are offered a choice of vision coverage through an annual exam-only plan or a buy-up plan which includes an annual eye exam and hardware coverage.

Retirement Plans - Employees are offered three retirement plans:

• Washington State Department of Retirement Systems (DRS): Mandatory participation (PERS, LEOFF or PSERS), depending upon eligibility.
• City of Bellevue Municipal Employees Benefit Trust (MEBT): Optional participation in this 401(k) retirement savings plan with employer match contributions that vest on a 3-year schedule.
• Deferred Compensation Program (457 DCP): Optional participation in the supplemental Deferred Compensation Program also administered by DRS that allows tax-deferred savings into a variety of investments options.

Other benefits include:

More detailed information about our employee benefits is available at https://c2mb.ajg.com/cityofbellevue

• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
• Life/Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance
• Long Term Disability (LTD)
• Survivor Income
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• 11 observed holidays per year plus 2 additional personal holidays, vacation (standard accrual of 12 days a year), and sick leave (accumulated at the rate of one day per month)
• An ORCA Card bus pass
• On-site fitness center, and self service food/coffee options
• Career development and training programs
• Tuition Reimbursement Program
• Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)

Paydays - The City of Bellevue pays employees on the 8th and the 23rd of each month (24 pay periods per year).

Please note: The City of Bellevue does not participate in the Social Security Administration (SSA) program and employees do not earn social security credits. The mandatory DRS retirement pension plan provides the required social security replacement plan.

NOTE: This is a brief summary of the benefit programs for the Citys non-represented employees. Every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy. Benefits for employees represented by a collective bargaining agreement (CBA) may have different benefits. If any information on this document conflicts with the provisions of a CBA, the CBA prevails. Also, in the event of any incorrect information in this document, applicable laws, policies, rules, CBAs, or official plan documents will prevail.

01

Your responses in this section will be used to review your application and determine your eligibility for this position. The experience listed here MUST match the employment history provided in your application. If your answers do not align, please go back and update your application before submitting, as any discrepancies may result in removal from consideration. Please note, it is not acceptable to use "See Resume" or "See Above". We do not accept resumes as a substitute for a completed application. Do you understand and agree to these requirements?

• I confirm that the information provided here is consistent with my application.
• I do not agree with the statements above.

02

Which statement below best describes the highest level of education you have completed in civil engineering, environmental studies, water resources management, construction management or a related field?

• High school graduate, diploma or the equivalent (GED)
• Associate degree
• Bachelors Degree
• Masters Degree or above

03

How many years of progressively responsible managerial and administrative experience in public utilities systems do you have?

• No experience
• Less than 3 years of experience
• 3-5 years of experience
• 5-8 years of experience
• 8-10 years of experience
• More than 10 years of experience

04

How many years of experience do you have in management of planning, design and construction programs for municipal utility facilities?

• No experience
• Less than 5 years of experience
• 5-8 years of experience
• 8-10 years of experience
• 10-12 years of experience
• More than 12 years of experience

05

Do you have a Washington State Professional Civil Engineering license?

• Yes
• No

06

How many years of experience do you have delivering capital projects for public utilities?

• No experience
• Less than 5 years of experience
• 5-10 years of experience
• 10-15 years of experience
• More than 15 years of experience

07

What is the largest annual capital program budget you have directly managed?

• Under $5 million
• $5-15 million
• $16-50 million
• Over $50 million

08

How comfortable are you presenting technical information to non technical audiences (e.g., Council, community groups)?

• Comfortable with support
• Comfortable independently
• Very comfortable; frequently present in public forums
• Expert; regularly lead high profile or politically sensitive presentations

09

Which utility systems have you managed capital projects or planning for? (select all that apply)

• Drinking water
• Wastewater
• Stormwater
• Other municipal or public infrastructure
• None of the above

10

Please briefly describe your experience managing capital programs for municipal utilities, including the scale and types of projects you've overseen.

11

Which functional areas have you led or supervised? (select all that apply)

• Utility systems planning
• CIP portfolio management or administration
• Asset management
• Project management (design and construction)
• Construction management
• Development review or permitting
• Environmental compliance or permitting
• None of the above

12

Summarize your experience managing and developing technical staff (engineers, inspectors, scientists, etc.). What leadership approaches do you use?

13

The City of Bellevue is a hybrid workplace. This is a Washington State job, and candidates must reside within a reasonable distance of City Hall and be onsite in Bellevue at least 2 day(s) per week.

• Yes, I am interested in hybrid schedule and available to be onsite 2 or more days per week.
• No, I am interested in fully remote position.

Required Question

Employer City of Bellevue

Address PO Box 90012

Bellevue, Washington, 98009

Website http://www.bellevuewa.gov/