Senior Engineer - Utility Systems Planning (Engineering)

Position Overview

The Public Works and Utilities Department is seeking a proactive, strategic-minded Utility Systems Planning Engineer to lead the long-term planning and coordination of large-scale water and sewer infrastructure projects. This role emphasizes innovation, compliance with regulatory standards, and collaboration with diverse stakeholders to enhance the community’s sustainability and resilience. Compensation: $74,899.00 - $131,502.00 Annually. Job location: City of Wichita – City Hall, KS. Work schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervises and manages the work of engineers and technicians within the Utility System Planning group.
• Plans, directs, and schedules Capital Improvement Program (CIP) budgets for water and sewer infrastructure, treatment plants, and related improvements.
• Directs, coordinates, and reviews consulting firms’ preparations of feasibility studies, plans, specifications, and cost estimates.
• Conducts challenging design, inspection work, and special studies, ensuring quality and compliance.
• Prepares proposals, specifications, estimates, contract terms, and performance reports.
• Engages with citizens, developers, engineers, contractors, and public service entities to achieve project objectives.
• Prepares and presents detailed studies, plans, and cost estimates to various stakeholder groups.
• Operates a vehicle to complete work assignments as required.

Required Qualifications

• Demonstrated knowledge of utility engineering principles with a focus on water and sewer vertical asset design, construction, and maintenance.
• In-depth understanding of federal and state regulations affecting utility infrastructure projects.
• Ability to perform technical research, analyze complex problems, and clearly communicate findings.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, GIS, modeling software, and advanced spreadsheet skills.
• Bachelor’s degree in civil or mechanical engineering.
• Minimum of four years’ progressive experience in the design and construction of municipal utility projects, including supervisory and project management responsibilities.
• Active registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) in the State of Kansas, or the ability to transfer a PE license within 12 months of hire.
• Possession of a valid Kansas driver’s license.
• Legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.

Preferred Qualifications

• At least two years’ experience managing water and sewer utility projects in urban environments with complex regulatory requirements.
• Experience with Capital Improvement Program (CIP) budget planning.
• Advanced proficiency in engineering software such as AutoCAD, GIS, and related modeling tools.

Benefits & Perks

• Vacation: Earn 10 days per year (with increases after five years and up to 240 hours accumulation).
• Holidays: Eleven paid holidays plus one Personal Holiday after the first six months.
• Sick Leave: Accrual begins at half a day per month, with additional benefits for perfect attendance.
• Health Insurance: UMR/United Healthcare PPO plans featuring Teladoc, Dario healthy living programs, and VSP Vision, with 80% of premium contributed by the City.
• Dental Insurance: Options include Preferred and Traditional Delta Dental plans with pre-tax premium deductions.
• Life Insurance: Low-cost voluntary term life options with basic and supplemental coverage available.
• Long-Term Disability: Voluntary group plan offering 60% of pre-disability income for qualifying injuries or conditions.
• Voluntary AD&D: Employee-paid accidental death and dismemberment coverage.
• Retirement: Participation in either Wichita Employees (WER) Plan 3 or Commissioned Police & Fire Plan C-79, with cost-sharing between employee and City.
• Flexible Spending Accounts: Pre-tax options for dependent care and unreimbursed medical expenses.
• Long-Term Care Insurance: Options available through UNUM for facility and home care benefits.
• More Benefits: Includes Deferred Compensation, Employee Discounts, Bereavement Pay, Employee Emergency Assistance, Training Programs, and additional services.