Engineer I/II

Engineer I/II

Salary

$93,948.40 - $114,194.86 Annually

Location

Santa Maria, CA

Job Type

Full-Time

Job Number

FY 27-00168

Department

Public Works

Division

P/W Engineers

Opening Date

10/12/2026

Closing Date

11/29/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

OPPORTUNITY

This is an open recruitment to fill one full-time Engineer I/II position.

The Engineer I/II position is a flex-series position.

Candidates may be hired at either level based on their experience and the hiring departments needs.

Biweekly Salary Ranges

Engineer I: $3,277.44 - $3,983.75

Engineer II: $3,613.40 - $4,392.11

WHO WE ARE & WHAT WE DO

The City of Santa Maria is a full-service city with a City Council/City Manager form of government, over 700 employees, an annual budget of approximately $367 million, and serves approximately 113,041 constituents. Santa Maria is located on the beautiful central coast of California and covers over 23 square miles. The City harmoniously balances maintaining agricultural and coastal lands while promoting business. The City of Santa Maria has been recognized nationally as an All-America City by the National Civic League and offers community festivals, reasonably priced housing, and quality schools. Santa Maria is in proximity to a local airport, beaches, cultural arts, institutions of higher education, and wineries.

The Department of Public Works is responsible for ensuring that City-owned transportation infrastructure and facilities, transit services, and capital improvement programs are designed, engineered, constructed, maintained, and/or modified in a presentable and safe condition. The department coordinates a variety of activities and services, including the preparation of plans and specifications for public works-related construction projects; the design and inspection of public facilities; and ensuring the proper installation of all public improvements made in new subdivisions, such as streets, curbs, gutters, sidewalks, water mains, sewer lines, and drainage.

ABOUT THE POSITION

Under the general direction of the assigned supervisor, assists in the planning, coordination, analysis, and implementation of various activities of the Public Works Department in one of the following divisions: construction, development, traffic and transportation, or capital. This classification may be flexibly staffed at the discretion of the Department Director. Supervision is not normally a responsibility of this classification, but the incumbent may act as lead worker for temporarily assigned employees or special projects.

The Engineer I/II position is an Individual Contributor role that provides design and engineering services to ensure City-owned infrastructure, assets, and facilities are constructed and modified in a functional and safe condition. Their role enables City of Santa Maria residents to enjoy a healthy, safe, and pleasant environment in which to live, work, and play.

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE

The ideal candidate is a collaborative, enthusiastic, and forward-thinking engineering professional with a bachelor's degree in civil engineering or a related field and a strong foundation in engineering principles, practices, and methods. The successful candidate will bring curiosity, initiative, and problem-solving skills to a variety of municipal projects involving capital improvement projects, development review, public infrastructure, transportation, and related public works activities. While some engineering experience is desirable, the City of Santa Maria welcomes candidates who demonstrate a commitment to learning and possess strong technical fundamentals. The ideal candidate will build productive relationships, communicate effectively, and work collaboratively with consultants, contractors, the community, and city staff. The ideal candidate will exhibit enthusiasm for innovation, professional growth, and public service, and the opportunity to help shape and maintain the infrastructure that sustains the community and its quality of life.

REQUIRED APPLICATION ATTACHMENTS

• Cover Letter
• Resume
• Copy of Engineer-in-Training Certificate

DUTIES

These duties are a representative example; position assignments may vary depending on the business needs of the department and organization. This position:

• Performs sub-professional civil engineering field and office work, including utilizing computer-aided drafting software to prepare and produce engineering drawings and other computer input.

• Participates in the development and administration of the division or section budget.

• Consults with and aids other governmental agencies in engineering matters.

• Receives citizen complaints and takes appropriate action.

• Represents the division or department at conferences and meetings with other departments, agencies, and organizations.

• Composes correspondence to policymakers, lending institutions, bonding companies, contractors, developers, regulatory agencies, etc.

• Develops written reports, correspondence, change orders, technical memos, applications, permits, and other written information.

• Demonstrates regular, reliable, and punctual attendance.

• Upholds the values of the organization and has strong customer service orientation.

• Performs other related projects and duties as assigned.

Scope of assigned area will depend on departmental structure and is at the discretion of the Department Director:

• Positions assigned to Traffic/Transportation may:

• Assist with the coordination of advanced transportation planning projects, including traffic studies and surveys, technical research and analysis of transportation projects, etc.

• Provide transportation staff support to City departments, other agencies, and technical transportation committees.

• Review traffic signal plans and provide engineering support for signal installations.

• Coordinate and design pedestrian safety projects.

• Process grant applications

• Work with Caltrans to implement new transportation improvement projects.

• May compose City Council agenda reports and related written documents.

• Lead City Traffic Committee meetings.

• Positions assigned to Development may:

• Work with developers and private engineering firms to draft public infrastructure requirements consistent with City policy.

• Review construction plans and subdivision maps; coordinate public infrastructure record updates.

• Issue encroachment permits and respond to public record requests.

• May represent City before the City Planning Commission, elected officials, and the public.

• Coordinate with consultants related to development projects.

• Positions assigned to Capital Projects may:

• Serve as the project manager on City capital projects.

• Supervise the design of in-house design projects.

• Contract with and supervise private consultants.

• Pursue additional funding sources.

• Provide technical design support and coordination for City Departments.

• Prepare plans, specifications, and cost estimates for the review and approval of professional-level staff; review projects for conflicts with existing improvements and utilities.

• Positions assigned to Construction Management may:

• Develop and manage a project team including City inspection staff and consultants to survey, inspect, or manage City construction projects.

• Negotiate change orders; manage project budgets; facilitate solutions to construction issues; and coordinate with other departments and agencies regarding construction issues.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Engineer I

• Ideally, some engineering experience is desirable; and
• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor's degree in Civil or Mechanical Engineering or a related field is required at appointment.

Engineer II

• Ideally, two years of responsible work experience in the field of Civil or Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field.
• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor's degree in Civil or Mechanical Engineering or a related field is required.
• Employees may be considered for a level II advancement after completion of two years in their current assignment, at the Department Directors discretion.

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• Current technical/professional knowledge of complex principles, methods, standards, and techniques associated with the scope of work of a recognized profession, such as:

• Engineering design, construction practices, drafting, inspection, and surveying.

• Physics, chemistry, and mathematics as applied to civil engineering.

• Engineering economics and business accounting practices and applications.

• Street maintenance practices and procedures; local, state, and federal regulations pertaining to transit services and/or public works systems; appropriate safety precautions and procedures.

• Effective verbal and interpersonal communication skills.

• Microsoft Office Suite (or equivalent).

• Use computer and other office equipment effectively.

• Required licenses and/or certificates associated with the assignment, such as:

• A valid Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certificate issued by the State Board of Registration for Civil, Geologist, and Professional Engineers.

CORE COMPETENCIES

Incumbents should have a solid foundation of the following core competencies identified by the organization to be essential and listed in order of importance (click the hyperlink to see the full definition Individual Contributor Competencies):

• Team Player - Effective performers are team oriented, share resources, respond to requests, and support a spirit of cooperative effort.
• Customer Orientation - Effective performers are in touch with community needs and review the organization through the eyes of Santa Maria residents. They go out of their way to anticipate needs.
• Integrity - Effective performers think and act ethically and honestly, take responsibility for their actions and foster a work environment where integrity is rewarded.
• Communicativeness - Effective performers recognize the essential value of continuous information exchange and the competitive advantage it brings. They actively seek information from a variety of sources and disseminate it in a variety of ways. They use modern technologies to access and circulate information, even across great distances. They take responsibility for ensuring that their people have the current and accurate information needed for success.
• Initiative - Effective performers are proactive and take action without being prompted. They do not wait to be told what to do or when to do it. They see a need, take responsibility, and act on it. They make things happen.
• Composure - Effective performers maintain emotional control, even under ambiguous or stressful circumstances, and demonstrate emotions appropriate to the situation.
• Functional/Technical Expertise - Effective performers are knowledgeable and skilled in a functional specialty (e.g., finance, public works, planning, information technology, human resources, etc.), and remain current in their area of expertise.
• Problem Solving & Decision Making - Effective performers identify problems, solve them, act decisively, and show good judgment.
• Learning Agility - Effective performers continuously seek new knowledge, are curious, learn quickly, and use new information effectively.
• Drive/Energy - Effective performers have a high level of energy and are ambitious and passionate about their role. They have stamina and endurance to maintain a fast pace.

SELECTION PROCESS

The completed electronic application packet must include the online application, supplemental questions, and required electronic attachments. Applications missing any of these materials will be considered incomplete. Candidates who meet the minimum qualifications will be referred to the Hiring Department for review. The Department will interview candidates whose qualifications most closely align with its needs. Final scores and rankings will be determined by the interview process. Candidates who successfully complete the oral examination will be placed on the eligibility list. Only those candidates who best fit the needs of the Hiring Department will be considered for this opportunity.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

The incumbent must possess a valid and appropriate drivers license, and must have and maintain a satisfactory driving record and meet City liability requirements to drive for City business.

The incumbent must complete a background investigation to the satisfaction of the City.

The incumbent must meet the physical requirements of the job class and have mobility, balance, coordination, vision, hearing, and dexterity levels appropriate to the duties to be performed. Completion of a pre-employment physical to the satisfaction of the City may be required. Reasonable accommodation(s) for an individual with a qualified disability will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

If you experience technical (computer-related) difficulties or need help attaching documents to your application, please call the NEOGOV help line for assistance at +1 (855) 524-5627.

The following benefits vary by bargaining unit. For full benefit information please refer to the Memorandum of Understanding or compensation resolution available at https://www.cityofsantamaria.org/services/departments/human-resources/salary-group-agreements.

Retirement

The City of Santa Maria is a member of the California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS). Your benefit factor is determined by the retirement formula, age, service credit and final compensation. Based upon your bargaining unit and hire date the benefit factor will vary.

Health Insurance

Medical Insurance is provided to employees and eligible dependents through the California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS). There are four Preferred Provider Organizations (PPOs) and three Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) to choose from. The benefit amount varies per bargaining unit.

The City has a medical insurance benefit program which provides either payment towards the premium for the employee and eligible dependents, or cash payment if you and your dependent(s) already have health benefits. Evidence of major medical health insurance coverage is required for those employees who receive the cash payment. See Memorandum of Understanding for eligibility requirements.

Dental Insurance

Dental Insurance is provided to employees and eligible dependents through The Standard covering 100% of Preventive; 90% of Basic; and 60% of Major with a minimal deductible. The plan includes a Max Builder option rewarding insured employees and their dependents who use only a portion of their annual dental benefit maximum. The benefit amount varies per bargaining unit.

Vision Insurance

Vision Insurance is available to employees and eligible dependents. Coverage is through VSP and covers an annual Well Vision exam and an allowance towards prescription glasses. The benefit amount varies per bargaining unit.

Life Insurance and AD&D Coverage

All employees working a minimum of thirty two (32) hours per week are eligible for Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) coverage. Supplemental life, spousal and dependent child options are also available. The benefit amount varies per bargaining unit.

Short-Term & Long-Term Disability

All employees working a minimum of thirty two (32) hours per week, excluding Sworn Police and Fire shall participate in the short-term and long-term disability plan with coverage up to 66 2/3% of salary. Sworn Police and Fire are covered through their respective bargaining unit.

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)

The City offers a flexible spending account option for Dependent Care and Health Care Expenses. With these plans, employees can choose to place a portion of their earnings into a personal reimbursement account on a pre-tax basis. Doing so lowers employees taxable income for the year and allows them to pay for their qualified dependent care and eligible health care expenses with pre-tax dollars.

Employee Assistance Program

The City provides an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) through AETNA for all full and part time employees and their eligible dependents. The confidential EAP program can refer employees to professional counselors and services that can help resolve emotional health, family and work-life issues, or provide help with childcare and eldercare assistance, financial and legal services, identity theft recovery services and daily living services.

Wellness Program

Offered to help employees gain knowledge, skills and motivation to improve the quality of their lives and well-being. The Citys Wellness Program includes ergonomic evaluations, flu shots, and Wellness Workshops during lunch and after work. Access to the Paul Nelson Aquatics Center for employee and immediate family members. Access to the Weight room at the Abel Maldonado Community Youth Center for employee and immediate family members. Access to employee discounts and special offers on travel, entertainment, shopping, dining and services.

Mentorship Program

This professional development program of mentoring and job shadowing provides mentees with an opportunity to be mentored by experienced staff with the objective of developing specific skills and knowledge that will enhance the participants leadership skills and promote professional growth.

Succession Planning

The academies are offered to all employees including those that are not yet in a supervisory role, but are interested in becoming leaders within the organization as well as our executive management team who have an interest in honing their skills and helping to prepare our future leaders. In addition to multiple leadership academies, the City offers quarterly Speaker Series, a corporate Toastmasters club available for City employees, site tours of various departments, and more.

Deferred Compensation

Employees may participate in the Citys 457 Deferred Compensation Plan sponsored by either Empower or CalPERS Supplemental Income. The plan enables employees to save salary and earn interest on a tax-deferred basis. A City match is available based upon representation.

The City also provides an IRS approved 401(a) plan sponsored by Empower for managers represented by Non-Represented Full-Time Management & Confidential (NMAC).

Post Employment Health Plan (PEHP)

Based upon your bargaining unit the City may participate in a PEHP plan that will provide reimbursement for out-of-pocket cost of qualified medical expenses such as prescription drugs, doctor co-pays, eyeglasses and cover the reimbursement of medical insurance premiums upon separation or retirement.

Holidays

The City offers seven (7) paid holidays per year. In addition, based upon your bargaining unit a bank of floating holiday hours is available to be used at the employees discretion.

Vacation

The City initially offers two weeks of paid vacation per calendar year for all full time employees. Accrual rates increase thereafter based upon your bargaining unit.

Sick Leave

Sick leave shall accrue a rate of eight hours for each month of continuous service, or approximately two weeks per year for all full time employees. Employees may use up to half of their annually accrued sick leave for family illness and up to five days (40 hours) per calendar year for bereavement leave.

Management Leave

Management level employees may receive a prorated amount of management leave time each new calendar year.

Educational Incentive Program

In addition to regular pay when education is in addition to the regular requirements of the job specifications and is work related.

Tuition Reimbursement

Based on your bargaining unit, you may be reimbursed for tuition and book costs of approved job related courses. The maximum amount of tuition reimbursement in any calendar year will vary based upon your bargaining unit.

Auto Allowance

Management level employees may receive auto allowance based upon the need of the position.

Telephone/PDA Stipend

Management level employees may receive a telephone and/or PDA stipend based upon the need of the position.

Bilingual Pay

Bilingual pay is provided to employees who are required by their department head to use both English and Spanish in communicating with the public while performing the duties of his/her position and who demonstrate appropriate skills in both speaking and understanding the Spanish language shall receive compensation. The benefit amount varies per bargaining unit.

01

Describe any academic work, employment, internship, or volunteer work that provided you with experience related to civil engineering. What was your role and what did you learn? (Suggested Word Limit: 200 Words)

02

Which areas of civil engineering are you most interested in, and why? Examples: Capital Projects, Construction, Land Development, Stormwater, Structure, Transportation, Wastewater, or Water. (Suggested Limit: 150 Words)

03

Describe your experience using analysis, design, engineering, or mapping software. Identify the software and briefly describe how you used it. Examples: ArcGIS, AutoCAD/Civil 3D, Bluebeam, Excel, HEC-RAS, MicroStation, Synchro, or similar programs. (Suggestion Limit: 150 Words)

Required Question

Employer City of Santa Maria

Address 110 East Cook Street, Room 1

Santa Maria, California, 93454

Phone 805-925-0951 ext. 2203

Website http://www.cityofsantamaria.org