What does an assistant city engineer do?

1 Duties and responsibilities

An assistant city engineer is responsible for assisting the city engineer or the director of public works in managing and supervising the engineering division of a city or municipality. This role involves preparing and reviewing engineering plans, specifications, estimates, and contracts for various public works projects. They must also coordinate and oversee the bidding, awarding, and administration of contracts for public works projects, while ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations and standards. Additionally, they supervise and evaluate the performance of engineering staff, consultants, contractors, and inspectors. An assistant city engineer must also communicate and collaborate with other city departments, agencies, officials, and stakeholders to solve engineering problems and issues. They also use computer-aided design (CAD) and geographic information system (GIS) software to prepare reports, proposals, and recommendations to the city engineer, the director of public works, the city council, and the public.

2 Skills and qualifications

Becoming an assistant city engineer requires a bachelor's degree in civil engineering or a related field from an accredited program, as well as a professional engineer (PE) license or the ability to obtain one in a certain period of time. Relevant work experience in civil engineering design, preferably in the public sector, is also necessary. The essential skills and qualifications for this role include knowledge of civil engineering principles, practices, methods, and standards, especially in the areas of public works design and construction. Additionally, an assistant city engineer should be able to prepare and review engineering plans, specifications, estimates, and contracts using CAD and GIS software. The ability to coordinate and oversee multiple projects, manage budgets and schedules, and ensure quality and safety is essential. Furthermore, one should be able to supervise and lead engineering staff, consultants, contractors, and inspectors while fostering a collaborative work environment. Effective communication with various internal and external parties is also necessary for this role, as well as the ability to solve complex engineering problems using analytical and creative thinking.