Job Description

Posting number: 2026-0034

Department: Department of Public Services

Division: Engineering

Job classification: City Engineer

Posting type: Open

Categories: Engineering

Summary

Applications are being accepted from both AFSCME Union members and the public. AFSCME Members must apply within the first 14 days of this posting to be considered as an in-house candidate. Any applications received after the first 14 days will be considered with applications from the public.

Applications from the public will be considered only after all in-house union obligations have been met.

All applications will be screened to ensure they meet all the minimum requirements. Qualified candidates will be invited to participate in an oral interview. To be placed on the eligible list, candidates must achieve a score of 70% or better on the oral interview.

This posting is subject to close after 14 days.

The City Engineer leads and manages the Engineering Division within the Department of Public Services, including the Engineering and Traffic Engineering sections. This position plays a key role in planning, designing, and maintaining the City’s infrastructure systems. The City Engineer oversees engineering projects, traffic operations, street lighting, and related public works functions. The role also supports the development and delivery of infrastructure improvement projects that enhance public safety and community well-being.

Examples of duties

1. Manages and oversees the design and review of infrastructure projects completed by consultants and internal staff, ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal standards.
2. Acts as project engineer for construction activities, ensuring compliance with construction standards for state and federally funded projects.
3. Leads and supervises the Engineering division, including assigning work, evaluating performance, and addressing labor relations matters.
4. Prepares and administers the Engineering and Traffic Engineering sections budgets, including annual operating budgets, capital improvement plan (CIP), and major and local street revenue calculations.
5. Oversees traffic operation and maintenance activities, including the development of recommendations related to traffic control regulations.
6. Reviews development site plans as it pertains to site access, water and sewer services, parking lot layout, and storm water management.
7. Develops and maintains the City’s street, bridge, and traffic control system asset management plans, including the City’s Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP) for federal funded projects.
8. Administers and maintains all records related to infrastructure assets such as underground utilities, streets, bridges, signs, and traffic signals.
9. Ensures timely investigation and resolution of citizen concerns related to road right-of-way infrastructure.
10. Prepares and presents technical reports and recommendations to City leadership, boards, and the public.
11. Monitors and implements applicable federal, state, and local legislation affecting engineering and road right-of-way activities.
12. Represents the department at meetings, including those held during evenings and weekends as required.
13. Monitors and controls expenditures to prevent unnecessary or inefficient spending, while planning, assigning, and supervising work to maximize efficiency and minimize waste of time, materials, and resources, and ensuring compliance with policies related to ethical conduct, use of public resources, and workplace accountability.
14. Performs other duties as assigned.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by personnel so classified.

Qualifications

Education and Experience

• Bachelor of Science Degree in Civil Engineering.
• Minimum of three (3) years of progressive engineering experience in design or project management within a municipality, county, state, other governmental agency or engineering consulting firm.
• Minimum of two (2) years supervisory experience, preferably in a union environment.

Licenses and Certifications

• Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in the State of Michigan, or ability to obtain licensure within 12 months of appointment.
• Must possess and maintain a valid Michigan driver’s license.

Knowledge of

• Principles and practices of civil, mechanical, structural, hydraulic and utility engineering in public works projects.
• Engineering design standards, construction methods, and inspection practices.
• Traffic engineering operations, including signal systems, signage, and pavement markings.
• Public works infrastructure systems, including streets, bridges, water, and sewer systems.
• Budgeting processes and capital improvement planning.
• Appliable federal, state, and local laws, codes, and ordinances.
• Engineering and office software such as CAD, GIS, and Microsoft Office.

Skill in

• Preparing clear and concise technical reports and presentations.
• Managing complex engineering projects and multiple priorities.
• Supervising staff and coordinating with contractors and stakeholders.
• Communicating effectively with elected officials, staff, and the public.

Ability to

• Lead and direct engineering and public works operations effectively.
• Interpret technical data and make sound engineering decisions.
• Establish and maintain strong working relationships with internal and external partners.
• Respond to community concerns in a professional and timely manner.

Supplemental information

Work Environment

This position involves both office and field work. Exposure to varying weather conditions, vibrations, dust, and construction environments.

Physical Demands

• Sedentary Work, exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally.
• Frequently standing, walking, and sitting.
• Ability to communicate effectively in person, by telephone, and through written communication.
• Standard vision and hearing requirements sufficient to perform essential job functions.