Special Projects Coordinator / Engineering Co-op
Salary
$18.00 - $25.00 Hourly
Location
Southfield, MI
Job Type
Non-career
Job Number
20260011
Department
Water and Sewer
Opening Date
05/18/2026
Closing Date
6/18/2026 5:00 PM Eastern
Equal Opportunity Language
This announcement is only a summary of the position, its duties, job requirements and compensation. Further information is available from the Human Resources Department. The City of Southfield does not discriminate in its employment or any other programs or activities on the basis, of sex, race, color, age, height, weight, marital status, national origin, religion, arrest record, physical or mental disability, family status, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other protected category. We provide reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with a disability if requested. AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER M/F/V/H, DRUG FREE WORKPLACE
ADA
Individuals with special needs who may require assistance with the application process should contact the Human Resources Department at (248) 796-4700 (voice) or via email at hrsupport@cityofsouthfield.com if auxiliary aids or services are needed. Reasonable advance notice is required.
Description
The Engineering Co-Op assists the Department of Public Works (DPW) with construction inspection, field data collection, and infrastructure compliance activities under the direct supervision of the Lead Engineering Technician and Compliance Manager. This position provides hands-on experience in municipal engineering projects, including water, sewer, and roadway systems, while supporting regulatory compliance and documentation efforts.
What You'll Do
Learning Outcomes
Direct experience working in municipal field operations
Exposure to construction inspection, materials testing, surveying, and infrastructure projects
Understanding of municipal standards, compliance requirements, and field practices
Development of practical skills in surveying, measurements, testing, and engineering documentation
Representative Job Duties
Work under the direction of a supervisor to support daily field operations and inspections
Perform field observations and assist with inspections of: Roadway construction and maintenance Water main and sewer installations/repairs Concrete, asphalt, and utility-related work
Verify contractors' work for compliance with plans, specifications, and City standards
Assist in documenting field conditions, quantities, and work progress
Prepare daily inspection reports and field logs
Record measurements, quantities, and as-built information for project documentation
Assist in identifying field issues and communicating them to supervisors
Support coordination between contractors, inspectors, and DPW staff
Assist with compliance-related inspections such as: Water service line material verification Cross-connection control inspections Lead and copper sampling support
Collect, input, and verify field and compliance data
Assist with ROW (Right-of-Way) Permits.
Assist with FOG (Fats, Oil and Grease) Program
Assist with maintaining records, reports, and documentation related to projects and compliance programs
Participate in site visits to verify existing conditions and assist in resolving field conflicts
Survey & Layout Support
Assist with basic surveying tasks for municipal projects
Operate and support the use of survey equipment such as:
GPS units
Total stations
Levels and rods
Help establish reference points, elevations, and alignments in the field
Assist in collecting and recording survey data for design verification and as-built purposes
Support layout and staking activities for construction projects
Verify field elevations, slopes, and locations against design plans
Job Requirements - As Determined By the City Of Southfield
Coursework in: Transportation engineering Surveying/Geomatics Construction management Environmental or water resources engineering
Basic understanding of construction plans, specifications, and materials testing procedures
Familiarity with: AutoCAD, MicroStation, or GIS Survey equipment (GPS, total station, level) Microsoft Office Suite
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Ability to follow direction and work under supervision in a field environment
Strong attention to detail for inspection, testing, and documentation tasks
Good communication skills for interaction with contractors and team members
Ability to maintain accurate field records and reports
Basic problem-solving skills and willingness to learn
Ability to work independently after receiving direction
Supplemental Information
Working Conditions
Primarily a field-based position with some office support work
Exposure to construction sites, traffic, and weather conditions
Requires walking, standing, and occasional lifting
The selection process will include a review of the applicants experience for posted requirements, a criminal history check, and an oral board interview. Each step of the process must be passed before the applicant will be moved to the next step. Applicants will be invited to further participate in the selection process based on the nature and extent of their related experience.
This position is not eligible for benefits.
Employer Southfield, City of (MI)
Address 26000 Evergreen Road
Southfield, Michigan, 48075
Phone 248-796-4700
Website http://www.cityofsouthfield.com