Assistant Engineer I/II - Public Works

Assistant Engineer I/II - Public Works

Salary

$76,377.60 - $108,284.80 Annually

Location

Eureka, CA

Job Type

Full-time

Job Number

25-00272

Department

Public Works

Division

321 - Roads-Engineering

Opening Date

06/15/2026

Closing Date

7/6/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

DEFINITION

ASSISTANT ENGINEER I/II - PUBLIC WORKS

The goal of the Engineering Division of the Public Works Department is to implement efficient and cost-effective services to preserve and enhance our county streets, bike paths, and sidewalks. Engineering staff works closely with the Road & Equipment Maintenance and Environmental Services Divisions and the Aviation Department to provide professional engineering services.

Job Highlights:

This position is responsible for a variety of duties, including;

• Plans, designs, and inspects all phases of public works projects such as roadway, traffic signal, and storm drainage systems, including defining the scope of the project; securing adequate funding from federal and state grant programs and other funding sources; coordinating with permitting, environmental, and public utility agencies; performing historical document research and review; surveying and engineering analysis of alternatives; preparing plans, specifications, and cost estimates; performing research, map, and field studies and surveys; drafting site plans with specialized computer software; applying engineering principles and practices to specific problems; coordinating construction schedules with other projects and agencies; inspecting construction of projects to ensure compliance with construction documents; and related planning and design work.
• Reviews construction plans prepared by consulting engineers and private contractors to verify compliance with County sidewalk, public utility, and improvement requirements; checks plans for conformance with regulations regarding line, grade, size, elevation, and location of structures; reviews engineering calculations of other engineers or engineering technicians; participates in pre-design, construction, and utility coordination meetings and issues permits for work performed in or on County infrastructure.
• Provides construction administration, management, and inspection of capital projects, including coordinating work with other divisions and County departments, reviewing and inspecting work to ensure conformance with plans and specifications, tracking and maintaining all project accounting, coordinating schedules, and providing public notices of projects.

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

• 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 processes.

Work Location:

Humboldt County Public Works HQ

1102 Second Street

Eureka, CA 95501

Please Note:

• A typical work schedule for this position is Mon - Fri, 8AM to 5PM with 1 hour lunch.

• This position is represented by the AFSCME bargaining unit.

DEFINITION

Under general supervision (Assistant Engineer I) to direction (Assistant Engineer II), performs a variety of professional engineering field and office work related to the management, planning, design, construction, and maintenance of the County's Capital Improvement Program; prepares specifications and conducts inspections of projects for streets, storm drains, and related structures; performs office and field work related to transportation studies and multimodal planning; prepares applications for and administers grants and other funding; provides project coordination, direction, and review; performs related duties as assigned.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receives general supervision (Assistant Engineer I) and direction (Assistant Engineer II) from assigned supervisory or management personnel. Exercises no direct supervision over staff.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS

Assistant Engineer I: This is the entry-level classification in the professional Engineer series. Initially under close supervision, incumbents learn and perform routine professional and technical engineering work in land development, public works infrastructure, and daily departmental operations, in addition to providing project management and administration. As experience is gained, assignments become more varied, complex, and difficult; 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 Assistant Engineer 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.

Assistant Engineer II: This is the journey-level classification in the professional Engineer series. Positions at this level are distinguished from the Assistant Engineer I 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. This class is distinguished from the Associate Civil Engineer, in that the latter requires registration as a Professional Engineer consistent with regulatory requirements and exercises independent discretion and judgment in matters related to work procedures and methods.

Positions in the Assistant Engineer I/II class series are flexibly staffed and positions at the II level are typically filled by advancement from the I level after gaining the knowledge, skill, and experience which meet the qualifications for, and after demonstrating the ability to perform the work of, the higher-level classification.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES

EXAMPLES OF TYPICAL JOB FUNCTIONS (Illustrative Only)

Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignment of different positions.

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

• Plans, designs, and inspects all phases of public works projects such as roadway, traffic signal, and storm drainage systems, including defining the scope of the project; securing adequate funding from federal and state grant programs and other funding sources; coordinating with permitting, environmental, and public utility agencies; performing historical document research and review; surveying and engineering analysis of alternatives; preparing plans, specifications, and cost estimates; performing research, map, and field studies and surveys; drafting site plans with specialized computer software; applying engineering principles and practices to specific problems; coordinating construction schedules with other projects and agencies; inspecting construction of projects to ensure compliance with construction documents; and related planning and design work.
• Reviews construction plans prepared by consulting engineers and private contractors to verify compliance with County sidewalk, public utility, and improvement requirements; checks plans for conformance with regulations regarding line, grade, size, elevation, and location of structures; reviews engineering calculations of other engineers or engineering technicians; participates in pre-design, construction, and utility coordination meetings and issues permits for work performed in or on County infrastructure.
• Provides construction administration, management, and inspection of capital projects, including coordinating work with other divisions and County departments, reviewing and inspecting work to ensure conformance with plans and specifications, tracking and maintaining all project accounting, coordinating schedules, and providing public notices of projects.
• Prepares consultant requests for proposal for professional and/or construction services and the advertising and bid processes, including responding to questions; evaluates proposals and recommends project award; prepares submittal packages for legal review.
• 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 processes.
• Conducts a variety of preliminary materials investigations for design activities; performs geological subsurface investigations and analyzes samples.
• May direct and review the work of technical engineering staff; assists with training technical support staff; may provide input into selection, evaluation and disciplinary matters and other personnel decisions.
• Assists in budget preparation for the assigned projects or programs; monitors annual expenditures; assists in bid procedures.
• Designs roadway structural sections, following established guidelines.
• Prepares detailed drawings, makes calculations and develops recommendations; prepares and writes a variety of technical and administrative reports.
• Reviews plans, tract, parcel maps, and applications for land development projects for conformance to applicable codes, regulations, and ordinances.
• Reviews sewer and hydrology studies and hydraulic calculations.
• Meets and confers with contractors, engineers, developers, architects, a variety of outside agencies, and the general public in acquiring information and coordinating engineering matters; provides information regarding County development requirements.
• Attends meetings, conferences, workshops, and training sessions and reviews publications and audio-visual materials to become and remain current on principles, practices, and new developments in assigned work areas.
• Drafts a variety of written communications, including analytical reports, correspondence, and revisions to plans, policies, and procedures.
• Drafts memos, resolutions, and project information for the Board of Supervisors.
• Provides technical direction and training to other engineering and technical staff.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge and ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of:

• Principles and practices of leadership.
• Principles of providing functional direction and training.
• Applicable federal, state, and local laws, codes, and ordinances relevant to the area(s) of responsibility.
• Civil engineering principles, techniques, policies, and procedures.
• Principles and practices of materials testing engineering, including geology and soil mechanics.
• Methods, materials, and techniques used in the construction of public works projects, including water and wastewater systems, storm water, and street design.
• Basic principles, practices, procedures, and standards related to County public works, engineering infrastructure development and maintenance, and surveying.
• General design, layout, and construction practices for public improvements such as streets, storm drains, grading, and landscaping.
• Modern office practices and technology, including personal computer hardware and software application related to the work, such as computer-aided drafting (CAD) concepts and applications, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) programs.
• Principles of advanced mathematics and their application to engineering work.
• Practices of researching engineering and design issues, evaluating alternatives, making sound recommendations, and preparing and presenting effective staff reports.
• Safety principles and practices pertaining to the work.
• Grant writing procedures.
• 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.

Ability to:

• Plan, organize, and coordinate the work of assigned staff.
• Effectively provide staff leadership and work direction.
• Apply engineering principles and techniques to evaluate and solve simple to difficult civil engineering problems.
• Prepare, understand, and interpret engineering construction plans, specifications, and other contract documents.
• Conduct comprehensive engineering studies and prepare reports with recommendations.
• Assist in, develop, and administer contracts for professional services and construction in a public agency setting.
• Design engineering projects.
• Read and understand technical drawings and specifications.
• Perform mathematical and engineering computations with precision.
• Organize and prioritize a variety of projects and multiple tasks in an effective and timely manner; organize own work, set priorities, and meet critical time deadlines.
• Make engineering design computations and check, design, and prepare engineering plans and studies.
• Understand, interpret, and apply all pertinent laws, codes, regulations, policies and procedures, and standards relevant to work performed.
• Effectively represent the department and the County in meetings with governmental agencies; community groups; various business, professional, and regulatory organizations; and in meetings with individuals.
• 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.

Minimum Qualifications:

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 a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in civil engineering or a related field

and

Assistant Engineer I: None.

Assistant Engineer II: Two (2) years of experience performing increasingly responsible professional civil engineering design and construction work or materials testing at a level equivalent to the County's class of Assistant Engineer I.

Licenses and Certifications:

• 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.

WORKING CONDITIONS & ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Mobility to work in a standard office setting and use standard office equipment, including a computer; to operate a motor vehicle and visit various County sites; 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; ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects up to 50 pounds, or heavier weights, in all cases with the use of proper equipment and/or assistance from other staff.
• 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 sit, stand, and walk on level, uneven, or slippery surfaces; to reach, twist, turn, kneel, and bend; and to operate a motor vehicle and visit various County sites.
• Strength and stamina to perform light to medium physical work; lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects averaging a weight of 50 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.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

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

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Some departments may require pre-employment screening measures before an offer of employment can be made (i.e. background screening, physical examination, etc.).

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

HOW TO APPLY

A complete, original application must be filed for each position you are interested in applying for. Applicants must apply online through the County's automated application system at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/humboldtcountyca.

Applications must be submitted no later than the final filing date and time listed on the job flyer.

It is important that your application shows all the relevant education and experience you possess. Human Resources staff does not consider or review resumes or attachments. Incomplete applications will be rejected.

Please read the job requirements section of the announcement. Be sure you meet these requirements since they will be carefully evaluated during the selection process.

Your performance in any employment examinations will be compared with the performance of others who take the tests. The examination results will be emailed to you as quickly as possible.

SELECTION PROCEDURE

The County utilizes a set of rules to ensure that our hiring processes are fair and equitable. Applications will be screened and those considered qualified will be invited to appear for an oral and/or written examination. Meeting the requirements does not guarantee inclusion into the selection process. Depending upon the number of applications received, the selection process may consist of additional application screening, written and/or practical exam(s), oral interview, or any combination thereof.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How long does it take to fill out the application?

• You should allow 30 - 45 minutes to fill out your application.

Can I change my application after submitting it?

• No. Once an application has been submitted, it is final. Applicants may submit a new application with updated information during the filing period if they wish. Only the most recent application submitted will be considered. All other applications will not be considered.

How long until I hear back from you and how can I check for updates on my application?

• You may receive communications regarding your application at different stages of the selection process. Important updates will be sent to the email address listed in your governmentjobs.com account at the time of notification. To ensure you dont miss any critical information, we recommend keeping your email address current and regularly checking both your inbox and junk mail folders throughout the process. You can also log into your governmentjobs.com account at any time to check your application status. If you have any questions about your applications progress, please contact the County of Humboldt Human Resources Personnel Division at 707-476-2349 or personnel@co.humboldt.ca.us.

Will I be informed if I am not selected for an interview / Oral Exam?

• Yes, you will be informed via email if you are not selected for an interview / Oral Exam.

OUR COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION

Research indicates that individuals in protected classes can be less likely to submit a job application. The County of Humboldt is dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace where our employees are free to bring their full selves to work each day in an environment that allows them to reach their full potential. The County Board of Supervisors has made organizational commitments to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and the County is working to ensure that these commitments are reflected in all we do. The County recognizes that certain populations (BIPOC, Disabled Persons, Veterans, LGBTQIA+ community members, etc.) face systemic and structural challenges which may inhibit their ability to satisfy every requirement of the position. In recognition of these structural and systemic factors, the Human Resources Department understands that experience can be gained in many ways - oftentimes, outside of formal institutions - and strives to take a holistic approach in assessing an applicant's qualifications for a position.

If you're excited about this role but your past work experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we strongly encourage you to apply.

REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS

The County of Humboldt is committed to providing equal access and opportunities in its programs, activities, and employment, and does not discriminate on the basis of mental or physical disabilities. The Human Resources Department is located in the Humboldt County Courthouse, which has an accessible entrance on 4th Street. Accessible parking is available adjacent to the 4th Street entrance and on the 4th Street side of the K Street lot. Special testing arrangements may be made to accommodate disabilities or religious convictions. If invited to an examination and you are in need of a reasonable accommodation, please contact Human Resources immediately at (707) 476-2349 so arrangements can be made.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

The county is an equal opportunity employer. We enthusiastically accept our responsibility to make employment decisions without regard to race, religion or religious creed, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, marital status, medical condition, mental or physical disability, military service, or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local laws or ordinances.

MEDICAL EXAMINATION

A pre-employment medical examination provided by the County may be required upon offer of employment.

OTHER EXAMINATIONS

Some positions also require psychological evaluation and/or extensive background investigation.

LICENSES

Some classifications require possession of valid professional and/or technical licenses. Some classifications may require the possession of a valid California driver's license.

PROBATIONARY PERIOD

Persons appointed to regular County positions serve a probationary period. This is normally six (6) months but could be up to one (1) year. All designated safety employees serve a one-year probationary period.

EMPLOYMENT ELIGIBILITY

It is the County's intention to hire only those workers who are authorized to work in the United States, pursuant to the Immigration Act of 1990. If you are offered employment, you will be required to verify your eligibility to work in the United States. For law enforcement positions you will be required to verify your U.S. citizenship or legalized status.

DISASTER SERVICE WORKERS

All County of Humboldt 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.

THE PROVISIONS OF THIS BULLETIN DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESS OR IMPLIED CONTRACT. THE COUNTY OF HUMBOLDT RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MAKE NECESSARY MODIFICATIONS TO THE EXAMINATION PLAN IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE HUMBOLDT COUNTY MERIT SYSTEM RULES.

Please Note: Extra Help positions are non-benefitted but may be eligible to purchase health insurance upon meeting the hours worked requirement under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

RETIREMENT

The County of Humboldt participates in the CalPERS, with both the County and the employee making contributions toward the employee's retirement.

CalPERS Retirement Program:

• Tier I - Prior to 7/5/2012: 2.7% @ 55
• Tier II - Post 7/6/2012: 2% @ 55
• Tier III - Post 1/1/2013: 2% @ 62

Please note that these are the tiers available at the County of Humboldt. Tier determination is made by CalPERS. Please reach out to Personnel if you have questions regarding tier placement.

COMPREHESIVE BENEFITS PACKAGE

Our generous benefits package includes:

• Health Insurance

• Medical: Multiple plan options available through CalPERS

• County covers majority of employee premium and contributes to dependent coverage

• Additional Insurance Coverage

• Dental: Full premium coverage for employees and all dependents

• Vision: Full premium coverage for employees and eligible dependents

• County-Provided Benefits

• Life Insurance

• Longevity Pay

• Educational Reimbursement

• Deferred Compensation

• Employee Assistance Program

• Bus Pass Program

Optional Benefits

Employees may elect to purchase additional coverage including:

• Supplemental Life Insurance with guaranteed issuance period at time of hire
• Flexible Spending Accounts

VACATION

1 - 3 completed years of service = 12 days (192-hour cap)

4 - 10 completed years of service = 15 days (240-hour cap)

11 - 15 completed years of service = 20 days (320-hour cap)

16 - 20 completed years of service = 25 days (400-hour cap)

21+ completed years of service = 30 days (480-hour cap)

HOLIDAYS

Employees earn 15 paid holidays per year (specific dates as defined in their specific Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)), including 2 personal holidays.

SICK LEAVE

Employees earn 12 sick days per year with an unlimited cap on sick day accumulation.

PUBLIC SERVICE LOAN FORGIVENESS

The County is a Public Service Loan Forgiveness certified employer.

INCENTIVE PAY

County employees may be eligible for additional incentive pay, such as on-call pay, shift differential pay, locked facility pay, or annual uniform allowance, as defined in their specific MOU.

Please visit the County of Humboldt Human Resources website at Human Resources | Humboldt County, CA - Official Website for more information on benefits, labor agreements, and job opportunities.

01

This position requires driving on behalf of the County of Humboldt. Do you possess, or can you obtain, a valid California drivers license, prior to your date of hire per California Department of Motor Vehicle regulations?

• Yes
• No

02

Please indicate your highest level of education completed with major coursework in civil engineering or a related field:

• High School Diploma or GED
• Some college
• Associates degree or 2-year equivalent
• Bachelors degree or 4-year equivalent
• Masters degree or higher
• None of the above

03

Please indicate your years of experience performing increasingly responsible professional civil engineering design and construction work or materials testing:

• None
• Less than 6 months
• 6 months - 1 year
• 1 - 2 years
• 2 - 3 years
• 3 - 5 years
• 5 or more years

04

Please describe your prior experience performing increasingly responsible professional civil engineering design and construction work or materials testing:

05

Any other coursework, training or experience you would like to add that directly relates to this position.

Required Question

Employer County of Humboldt

Address 825 5th Street, Room 100

Eureka, California, 95501

Phone 707-476-2349