Utilities Engineer

Position Overview

Under the direction of the Utilities Director, the Utilities Engineer is responsible for providing highly skilled engineering services on a wide variety of utility projects. This professional role requires independent judgment and a strong background in Civil Engineering principles, supporting the Department of Utilities in its mission.

Key Responsibilities

• Performs engineering management functions for City Utilities including Water Treatment, Water Distribution, Wastewater Treatment, Wastewater Collection, and Gas Distribution; manages functions as assigned by TDEC and others.
• Manages or performs surveys, design, drafting, preparation of specifications and bid packages; prepares right-of-way/easement documents, negotiates with property owners, and oversees construction for funded capital improvement projects.
• Prepares scopes of work, reviews and approves preliminary and final design plans and specifications, and manages key construction activities for projects designed by consultants.
• Prepares and recommends ordinances and revisions to city codes regarding construction standards.
• Confers with the City Attorney or representatives regarding the legality of contracts, agreements, litigation on contracts, and proposed legislation.
• Inspects infrastructure projects on site, reviews service delivery, and attends meetings to discuss project progress and status.
• Reviews and approves periodic expenditure estimates and contractor invoices.
• Attends all Planning Commission meetings and collaborates with the Planning Director to make recommendations to the Board.
• Engages with citizens, committees, and neighborhood groups regarding services and project implementation, addressing questions and concerns.
• Maintains continuous liaison with state and federal agencies concerning regulations, project approvals, and funding.
• Supervises investigations of citizens’ concerns, prepares reports, and coordinates with the Utilities Director to address issues.
• Coordinates with other city departments, boards, and local governments on project status.
• Reviews and approves engineered plans and specifications for private developments submitted for Planning approval.
• Prepares Requests for Qualifications, evaluates consultant qualifications, assists in the selection process, and negotiates agreements for consulting services.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Knowledge of the principles and practices of civil engineering, particularly as applied to municipal utilities.
• Understanding of municipal design, construction, maintenance methods, materials, and equipment.
• Familiarity with applicable laws and regulatory codes related to public improvement projects.
• Experience in engineering and project management within the framework of TDOT, TDEC, or comparable entities.
• Ability to plan, schedule, and supervise complex civil engineering programs.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills for interacting with diverse groups.
• Proven ability to develop effective working relationships with subordinates, contractors, engineers, the public, and elected officials.
• Availability to work extended hours and attend meetings outside normal working hours as needed.
• Ability to supervise, coordinate, delegate, and negotiate effectively.
• Competence in making sound financial and budgetary decisions.
• Adept at analyzing and resolving complex and sensitive problems.
• Advanced proficiency with personal computers and engineering software programs.

Education and/or Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering or a related engineering field is required.
• 3+ years of verifiable experience in civil engineering, preferably in a municipal environment; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Licenses & Certifications

• Licensed as a Professional Engineer in the State of Tennessee or possess a comparable PE license with the ability to obtain Tennessee licensing within the city-approved time frame.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license.

Compensation

Pay: $30.76 - $57.59 per hour

Benefits & Perks

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Work Location

In person