Engineering Technician I/II/III/IV presso Butte County, CA

About the Department

FLSA: Non-Exempt

DEFINITION
Under immediate (Engineering Technician I) or general supervision (Engineering Technician II), or direction (Engineering Technician III/IV) performs a variety of engineering support tasks related to civil or traffic engineering and land surveying assignments in the field and office, including supporting the professional engineering or survey staff by conducting basic traffic studies, survey work, researching engineering topics, preparing basic engineering calculations including estimates and reports for the development and modification of County infrastructure, providing assistance in the development of consultant requests for proposals for professional and/or construction services, preparing specifications; provides technical advice to the public; reviews permit requests and plan submittals, issues permits; performs technical field inspections and investigations to enforce state and county codes and ordinances relating to land use issues, public nuisances, right-of-way encroachments, and performs related duties as assigned. 

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Receives direct supervision (I-level), general (II-level), direction (III-IV level), from assigned management/supervisory staff. Exercises no direct supervision over staff.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS
Engineering Technician I: This is the entry-level classification in the Engineering Technician series. Initially, under close supervision, incumbents learn and perform routine in one or more areas of office or field engineering, surveying, materials testing, or permit support work. As experience is gained, assignments become more varied and complex; close supervision and frequent review of work lessen as an incumbent demonstrates skill to perform the work independently. Positions at this level usually perform most of the duties required of the positions at the Engineering Technician II level but are not expected to function at the same skill level and usually exercise less independent discretion and judgment in matters related to work procedures and methods. Work is usually supervised while in progress and fits an established structure or pattern. Exceptions or changes in procedures are explained in detail as they arise. 

Engineering Technician II: This is the journey-level classification in the Engineering Technician series. Positions at this level are distinguished from the Engineering Technician I level by the performance of the full range of duties as assigned, working independently, and exercising judgment and initiative. Positions at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit. 

Engineering Technician III: This is the experienced journey-level classification in the Engineering Technician series responsible for performing the most complex work assigned to the series. Incumbents regularly work on tasks which are varied and complex, requiring considerable discretion and independent judgment. Positions in the classification rely on experience and judgment to perform assigned duties.  Assignments are given with general guidelines and incumbents are responsible for establishing objectives, timelines, and methods to deliver services.   Work is typically reviewed upon completion for soundness, appropriateness and conformity to policy and requirements

Engineering Technician IV: This is the advanced journey, lead classification in the Engineering Technician series responsible for performing the most complex work assigned to the series. Incumbents regularly work on tasks which are varied and complex, requiring considerable discretion and independent judgement on diverse and specialized engineering technician activities with accountability and ongoing decision-making responsibilities associated with the work. Positions in the classification rely on experience and judgement to perform assigned duties.  Assignments are given with general guidelines and incumbents are responsible for establishing objectives, timelines, and methods to deliver services.  Work is typically reviewed upon completion for soundness, appropriateness and conformity to policy and requirements. Incumbents are responsible for planning, organizing, supervising, reviewing, and evaluating the work of assigned staff and for managing public works capital improvement design and construction projects. Incumbents are responsible for providing professional level support to management in a variety of areas. 
Positions in the Engineering Technician class series are flexibly staffed and are normally filled by advancing from the lower-level classification at the discretion of the Department Head. Progression to each higher classification level is subject to all of the following: (i) management affirmation that the position is performing the full range of duties assigned; (ii) management approval for progression to the next higher level in the series; (iii) satisfactory work and office performance at the current classification level; and (iv) the incumbent meeting the minimum qualifications for the next classification including any licenses and certifications. 

Position Duties

Typical functions may include any of the following tasks, knowledge, abilities, and other characteristics.  The list that follows is not intended as a comprehensive list; it is intended to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities. Incumbent(s) may not be required to perform all duties listed, and may be required to perform additional, position-specific tasks.

Some duties, knowledge, skills, and abilities may be performed in a learning capacity for entry-level (I Level/II) positions.

• Performs a variety of basic paraprofessional engineering support work in the design and construction of public works, roads, bridges, drainage, capital improvement projects, and related areas.

• Utilizes Computer Aided Drafting (CAD) and Geographic Information System (GIS) software to draft and modify plot plans, topographic maps, improvement plans, and illustrative graphics, such as charts, illustrations, and graphs for reports, drawings for design manuals, and other projects; prepares or checks engineering reports, specifications, and contract documents.

• Performs basic design, mapping, and drafting duties in connection with streets, storm drains, utilities, and other projects; designs roadway and bridge approaches.

• Conducts field assessments/inspections of county-wide stormwater culverts and non-bridge storm water drainage systems; documents field conditions of approaches, slopes, inlets/outlets, grade systems based on service life, records/photographs systems, and updates data sets; prepares reports based on field assessments; inspects for pollution or violations of state and/or federal regulations.

• Performs field, office, and computer-aided studies, including data collection from field equipment, and prepares periodic and special reports based on findings from research, studies, and surveys; makes recommendations on findings.

• Prepares and/or assists in the preparation of and/or interprets specifications, plans, estimates, specifications, and reports pertaining to the construction, maintenance, and operation of a variety of public works, land development, road, facility, and other Public Works infrastructure projects; performs construction inspections including subdivision, encroachment permits, commercial grading, and roadway, including quality control testing to ensure compliance with applicable plans, specifications, and standards.

• Participates as a member of a survey crew, performing calculations, construction staking and rod, chain, and instrument work.

• Meets and confers with the public, contractors, engineers, developers, architects, public utility, a variety of outside agencies, and the general public in acquiring information and coordinating engineering matters; provides information regarding County development requirements. 

• Receives and responds to information requests for base maps, parcel maps and improvement plan information, encroachment permits, benchmarks, easements, and other geographical data, soils reports, as-builts, and street improvements; retrieves plans, reports, permits, and files as necessary to comply with requests; performs site reviews; responds to questions and complaints from the public and resolves conflicts between owners, contractors, developers, utility companies, and others.

• Reviews subdivision maps, parcel maps, improvement plans, records of surveys, deeds, descriptions, preliminary title reports, and other private land surveyor data for compliance with design criteria, special conditions, and state, federal, and local laws, and ordinances, recommends modifications as needed.

• Performs or assists in traffic studies, including accident analysis, channelization, traffic volume, and speed studies; sets traffic counters and conducts manual counts; repairs and maintains traffic equipment; assists the public in answering questions related to traffic and traffic safety; communicates with law enforcement offices; provides plans for installation of striping and marking.

• ·Maintains engineering and traffic/transportation files, including computer databases, including plans, studies, inspections, surveys, maps, and other data related to engineering and transportation projects; prepares, updates, reproduces, and distributes maps, drawings, blueprints, and other information recorded in the GIS. 

• Investigates field problems affecting property owners, contractors, and maintenance operations; responds to citizen inquiries and complaints; provides information to the public at the front counter in person, via telephone, or other means of communication regarding grading, permits, right of way and property line information, utility information, slope stability, and groundwater issues, improvement plan check, and payment process.

• Samples, tests, and analyzes construction soils, aggregate base and fill, concrete mix, asphalt, and other materials, both in the laboratory and in the field, to ensure quality control of the construction process; determines if soils and materials meet standards for acceptance.

• Calculates soil and cement mix design ratios by conducting aggregate testing procedures, including gradation tests, sand equivalent tests, and specific gravity tests.

• Operates, maintains, and monitors equipment and instruments used in the analysis of soils and other construction materials; monitors equipment used in the mixing of asphaltic concrete and soil cement.

• Establishes and coordinates materials testing schedules with contractors, suppliers, other agencies, and County staff.

• Provides information to the public, contractors, engineers, developers, and representatives of other government agencies.

• Utilizes a wide variety of engineering testing, drafting, and survey tools and equipment; calibrates, maintains, and performs basic repairs to utilized tools and equipment.

• Makes a variety of engineering and mathematical computations and calculations.

• Inspect, fuel, and maintain County vehicles for use in the field.

• Performs related duties as assigned.

• In addition, Engineering Technician III and IV may be required to perform the following:

• Performs Assistant Resident Engineer or Resident Engineer duties on Public Works infrastructure projects, assists with field inspections of drainage structures, bridges, roadways, traffic signals, signs, striping, guardrail, labor compliance monitoring, Disadvantage Business Enterprise compliance, report writing, preparation of monthly estimates, submittal review and approval, quantity calculations, change order negotiations and preparation, stormwater compliance and environmental compliance, ensures compliance with the project plans and specifications and quality assurance programs.

• Reviews drawings, plans, estimates, and preliminary reports and provides constructability reviews for difficult construction and improvement projects; prepares or participates in the preparation of estimates and specifications; prepares or reviews complex engineering designs and plans as assigned.

• Prepares and reviews bid documents, requests for proposals, and contracts; assists in the bid process for services and materials related to various construction projects; participates in the selection of contract services; verifies contract insurances, licenses, experience, and references meet County standards.

• Prepares consultant requests for proposals of professional and/or construction services, including advertising and bid processes, and responding to questions; evaluates proposals and recommends project awards, prepares submittal packages for legal review.

• Writes contract change orders as necessary for assigned projects.

• Coordinates and performs materials sampling and testing for construction inspection, including the training of laboratory and inspection personnel.

• Maintains the materials lab Quality Assurance Program and acts as the Lab Manager. 

• Drafts reports and correspondence for Department management staff, County management, Board of Supervisors, and other agencies.

• Performs reviews of stormwater pollution prevention plans and water pollution control plans; registers and coordinates capital improvement projects in online State database; reviews reports; write reports.

• Plans the details for specific survey projects; organizes, assigns, directs, reviews, and participates in the work of a survey party conducting preliminary, location, construction, property, topographic, and other precise surveys.

• Trains staff in work procedures; and plans, distributes, checks, and approves the work of others.

• Checks measurements, readings and recorded data for completeness and accuracy.

• Plans, organizes, coordinates, and carries out Encroachment Permit functions and activities, including resolving of citizens’ complaints and inquiries.

• Coordinates and performs materials sampling and testing for construction inspection, including the training of laboratory and inspection personnel.

• Compiles, composes, and produces Engineering and Traffic surveys, including gathering of field data, researching of records, and presentation of recommendations and solutions to concerned parties and investigation of citizen complaints. Has responsibility for traffic records, database, and map information.

• Identifies necessary property acquisitions including researching information regarding the preparation of grants of easement, easement acquisition agreements, certificates of acceptance, quit claim deeds, subordination agreements, and right-of-way abandonment resolutions.

• Reviews and comments on Environmental Impact Reports and other development proposals.

• Uses a computer and electronic calculator to solve a variety of engineering related problems.

• Prepares and maintains accurate records, correspondence, technical or narrative reports.

Minimum Qualifications

Some duties, knowledge, skills, and abilities may be performed in a learning capacity for entry-level (I Level) positions.

Knowledge of:

• Engineering principles, practices, and methods applicable to office and field work involving the design, construction, and maintenance of public works projects including materials testing and field inspection.

• Basic design and construction practices and methods of streets, underground facilities, and related public works infrastructure.

• Construction site best management practices.

• Engineering plan types, review practices, permit filing, and approval procedures.

• Principles and practices of technical civil engineering drafting and surveying support.

• Drafting and surveying equipment, computers, principles, problems, techniques, and practices.

• Engineering mathematics, including geometry, algebra, and trigonometry.

• Principles and practices of contract and project administration.

• Applicable federal, state, and local laws, codes, and ordinances relevant to the area(s) of responsibility.

• The properties and composition of materials used in public works engineering projects.

• Technical report writing practices and procedures.

• Principles and procedures of recordkeeping.

• Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and County staff.

• The structure and content of the English language, including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

• Modern equipment and communication tools used for business functions and program, project, and task coordination, including computers and software programs relevant to work performed.

• In addition, Engineering Technician III and IV shall have the knowledge of:

• Methods and materials of common public works infrastructure construction.

• Basic principles and practices of planning, program development and implementation, budget development, administration, and accountability.

• Civil engineering principles, practices, and terminology, especially as applied to public works planning, design, and construction.  

• Engineering plan types, review practices, permit filing, and approval procedures.

• Principles and practices of contract and project administration.

• Applicable federal, state, and local laws, codes, and ordinances relevant to the area(s) of responsibility.

• Methods, materials, and techniques used in the construction of public works projects; procedures for sampling and testing of construction materials.

• Principles and practices of technical civil engineering drafting and surveying support; drafting and surveying equipment.

Safety principles and practices.

• Principles of providing functional direction and training.
• Principles, practices, and terminology of varied engineering technical support work including materials testing, drafting, mapping, design, construction, survey, permitting, field inspection and right-of-way.

• Data collection and analysis methods.

• Methods and techniques of data collection and analysis.

Ability To:

• Modify engineering drawings, topographic maps, improvement plans, and illustrative graphics using GIS software.

• Read and interpret engineering plans, technical drawings, specifications, and subdivision maps.

• Inspect construction work for compliance with plans and specifications.

• Perform standard engineering design under professional engineering supervision.

• Make mathematical calculations and accurate engineering computations and drawings.

• Make and record accurate field engineering observations.

• Use engineering, drafting, and surveying instruments and equipment.

• Prepare clear and concise reports, permit applications, correspondence, policies, procedures, and other written material. 

• Prepare a variety of plans, specifications, maps, graphic materials, cost estimates, and technical engineering reports.

• Research and analyze legal descriptions related to properties.

• Understand and follow complex technical instructions.

• Conduct research and compile accurate data in areas of responsibility.

• Independently organize work, set priorities, meet critical deadlines and follow-up on assignments.

• Effectively use computer systems, software applications relevant to work performed and modern business equipment to perform a variety of work tasks.

• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, using appropriate English grammar and syntax.

• Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

In addition, Engineering Technician III and IV shall have the ability to:

• Plan, organize and coordinate the work of assigned staff.

• Effectively provide staff leadership and work direction.

• Perform comprehensive engineering and constructability review of designs, plans, and specifications.  

• Perform a variety of construction inspection and administration to ensure compliance with plans and specifications.  

Inspect construction work for compliance with plans and specifications.

• Analyze and evaluate engineering and statistical data and information to develop sound recommendations. 
• Research, prepare, and maintain a variety of clear and concise technical reports and records related to the work.

• Operate a wide variety of engineering related tools and equipment, including calculators, drafting, and survey tools and equipment.

• Understand, interpret, and apply all pertinent laws, codes, regulations, policies and procedures and standards relevant to work performed.

• Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Education and Experience:

• Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:

• Equivalent to an associate degree with major coursework in civil engineering, construction management, drafting, surveying, mathematics, or a related field; and
• Engineering Technician I: None. 
• Engineering Technician II: One (1) year of experience performing increasingly responsible engineering technical support work at a level equivalent to the County’s class of Engineering Technician I.
• Engineering Technician III: Two (2) years of experience performing increasingly responsible engineering technical support work at a level equivalent to the County’s class of Engineering Technician II.
• Engineering Technician IV: Four (4) years of experience performing increasingly responsible engineering technical support work at a level equivalent to the County’s class of Engineering Technician III.

• Certifications and Licenses:

• Must possess a valid US driver’s license upon date of application.  Must obtain California driver’s license following hire date per California DMV regulations. 
• Engineering Technician IV: May be required to obtain and maintain a Qualified Storm Water Practitioner Certification. 

Other Qualifications

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
When assigned to an office environment: 

• Mobility to work in a standard office setting and use standard office equipment, including a computer; primarily a sedentary office classification although standing in work areas and walking between work areas may be required; occasionally bend, stoop, kneel, reach, push, and pull drawers open and closed to retrieve and file information.
• Vision to read printed materials and a computer screen. 
• Hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone. 
• Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator and to operate standard office equipment.

When assigned to field inspection:

• Mobility to work in changing site conditions; to operate a motor vehicle and visit various County sites; to sit, stand, and walk on level, uneven or slippery surfaces; to reach, twist, turn, kneel, and bend; and to climb and descend ladders and to operate a motor vehicle and visit various County site.
• Strength and stamina to perform light to medium physical work; lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects averaging a weight of 40 pounds, or heavier weights, in all cases with the use of proper equipment and/or assistance from other staff. 
• Vision to inspect site conditions and work in progress.
• Fieldwork requiring frequent walking in operational areas to identify problems or hazards, with exposure to hazardous materials in some site locations.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Office environment with moderate noise levels, controlled temperature conditions and no direct exposure to hazardous physical substances. 
• Also includes fieldwork with exposure to loud noise levels, cold and hot temperatures, inclement weather conditions, road hazards, vibration, mechanical and/or electrical hazards and hazardous physical substances and fumes.
• Employee may interact with upset staff and/or public and private representatives in interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures.

EQUIPMENT AND TOOLS UTILIZED

• Equipment utilized includes personal computer, fax machine, standard office equipment, hand-held tablet, GoPro video and camera unit, City vehicle, survey equipment, core drilling machine, traffic counter hand tools, and measuring wheel.

 
Disaster Service Worker
All Butte County employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law (California Government Code Section 3100-3109). Employment with the County requires the affirmation of a loyalty oath to this effect. Employees are required to complete all Disaster Service Worker related training as assigned, and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency.

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