Engineer I/II

Engineer I/II

Salary

$93,948.40 - $114,194.86 Annually

Location

Santa Maria, CA

Job Type

Full-Time

Job Number

FY 27-00174

Department

Utilities

Division

Utilities - Water Resources

Opening Date

10/31/2026

Closing Date

Continuous

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

OPPORTUNITY

This recruitment will remain open until filled.

To be considered in the first application review, submit your application by Tuesday, November 10, 2026.

The City of Santa Maria is recruiting one Engineer I/II in the Water Resources Division of the Utilities Department. Spring 2026 college graduates who will earn a Bachelor's Degree in Civil or Mechanical Engineering or a related field are highly encouraged to apply for this job opportunity.

WHO WE ARE & WHAT WE DO

The City of Santa Maria is a full-service city with a Council/Manager form of government with over 700 employees and serves approximately 110,000 residents. The City is located on California's central coast and covers over 23 square miles, which balances urban and agricultural lands.

The Utilities Department is responsible for providing water, wastewater treatment, sewer collection, refuse collection, and disposal services to Santa Maria. The Mission Statement of the Utilities Department is to provide efficient utility services through the use of progressive innovation, excellent customer service, and the wise use of public resources for the long-term benefit of the community.

SUMMARY

Under the general direction of the assigned supervisor, this position assists in the planning, coordination, analysis, and implementation of various engineering activities. This classification is currently in multiple divisions and departments across the City and may be flexibly staffed at the discretion of the Department Director. Supervision is not normally a responsibility of this classification but may act as lead worker for temporarily assigned employees or special projects.

The Engineer I/II position is an Individual Contributor role that provides design and engineering services to ensure City-owned infrastructure, assets, and facilities are constructed and modified in a functional and safe condition. Their role enables City of Santa Maria residents to enjoy a healthy, safe and pleasant environment in which to live, work and play.

THIS POSITION

The Engineer I/II will support water, wastewater, and capital projects. The successful applicant will work closely with operating managers and engineers to prepare solutions for pressing problems in the water and wastewater industries. The position is expected to have a thorough understanding of pipeline hydraulics, open channel flow, pipeline design, potable water systems, and wastewater treatment plant. This position will have meaningful career growth capability as well as mentorship opportunities from principal engineers and water resource managers serving in the public sector.

IDEAL CANDIDATE STATEMENT

The ideal candidate for Engineer I/II is a motivated individual with a passion for engineering who can support vital water resources projects. This person will play an integral part in developing engineering solutions for water, wastewater, and stormwater systems, and collaborating with various outside agencies to ensure successful project outcomes. Individuals with a degree in civil or mechanical engineering, or those currently in the final stage of their academic journey, are highly encouraged to apply.

IMPORTANT

A valid Engineer-in-Training (EIT) Certificate issued by the State Board of Registration Civil, Geologist, and Professional Engineers is the minimum qualification for this recruitment. A final offer of employment will only be issued upon verification that the selected candidate has met all requirements related to this recruitment.

REQUIRED APPLICATION SUBMITTALS

• Online application
• Cover letter which explains how your education and experience align with the Ideal Candidate Statement

Full Job Descriptions:

(Salary placement at the appropriate level will depend upon qualifications and experience)

• Engineer I - $85,213.44 - $103,577.50 Annually
• Engineer II - $93,948.40 - $114,194.86 Annually

DUTIES

These duties are a representative example; position assignments may vary depending on the business needs of the department and organization. This position:

• Performs sub-professional civil engineering field and office work, including utilizing computer-aided drafting software to prepare and produce engineering drawings and other computer input.
• Participates in the development and administration of the division or section budget.
• Consults with and aids other governmental agencies in engineering matters.
• Receives citizen complaints and takes appropriate action.
• Represents the division or department at conferences and meetings with other departments, agencies and organizations.
• Develops written reports, correspondence, change orders, technical memos, applications, permits, and other written information.
• Scope of assigned area will depend on departmental structure and is at the discretion of the Director.
• Upholds the values of the organization and has strong customer service orientation.
• Performs other related projects and duties as assigned.
• Demonstrates regular, reliable and punctual attendance.

Positions assigned to Water Resources may:

• Provide engineering technical support for water resources operations and capital projects.
• Assist with planning, designing, and executing engineering solutions to support water, wastewater, and stormwater systems. Typical projects could include pipeline upgrades, well rehabilitation, WWTP process upgrades, water quality analysis, and permit compliance.
• Support development of compliance reports and standard operating procedures.
• Perform engineering analysis and develop technical reports to analyze percolation or infiltration techniques and identify effective solutions for operations.
• Perform survey and grade control activities and maintain as-built record drawings.
• Conduct construction quality assurance monitoring and reporting; track project costs; and develop project specifications and cost estimates.

Individual Contributor

Incumbents should have a solid foundation of the following core competencies identified by the organization to be essential and listed in order of importance (See the full definition of Individual Contributor Competencies):

• Team Player - Effective performers are team oriented, share resources, respond to requests, and support a spirit of cooperative effort.
• Customer Orientation - Effective performers are in touch with community needs and review the organization through the eyes of Santa Maria residents. They go out of their way to anticipate needs.
• Integrity - Effective performers think and act ethically and honestly, take responsibility for their actions and foster a work environment where integrity is rewarded.
• Composure - Effective performers maintain emotional control, even under ambiguous or stressful circumstances, and demonstrate emotions appropriate to the situation.
• Functional/Technical Expertise - Effective performers are knowledgeable and skilled in a functional specialty (e.g., finance, public works, planning, information technology, human resources, etc.), and remain current in their area of expertise.
• Problem Solving & Decision Making - Effective performers identify problems, solve them, act decisively, and show good judgment.
• Learning Agility - Effective performers continuously seek new knowledge, are curious, learn quickly, and use new information effectively.
• Drive/Energy - Effective performers have a high level of energy and are ambitious and passionate about their role. They have stamina and endurance to maintain a fast pace.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Engineer I

• Ideally, some engineering experience is desirable; and

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor's degree in Civil or Mechanical Engineering or a related field is required at appointment.

• Engineer II

• Ideally, two years of responsible work experience in the field of Civil or Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field.

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor's degree in Civil or Mechanical Engineering or a related field is required.

• Employees may be considered for a level II advancement after completion of two years in their current assignment, at the Department Director discretion.

• Current technical/professional knowledge of complex principles, methods, standards and techniques associated with the scope of work of a recognized profession, such as:

• Engineering design, construction practices, drafting, inspection, and surveying.

• Physics, chemistry, and mathematics as applied to civil engineering.

• Engineering economics and business accounting practices and applications.

• Street maintenance practices and procedures; local, state and federal regulations pertaining to transit services and/or public works systems; appropriate safety precautions and procedures.

• Effective verbal and interpersonal communication skills.

• Microsoft Office Suite (or equivalent).

• Use computer and other office equipment effectively.

• Required licenses and/or certificates associated with the assignment, such as:

• A valid certificate Engineer-in-Training (EIT) issued by the State Board of Registration for Civil, Geologist, and Professional Engineers.

SELECTION PROCESS

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

• Possession of a valid and appropriate Driver License. Must have and maintain a satisfactory driving record and meet City liability requirements to drive for City business.
• Requires completion of a background investigation to the satisfaction of the City.
• The incumbent must meet the physical requirements of the job class and have mobility, balance, coordination, vision, hearing and dexterity levels appropriate to the duties to be performed.

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION

• May require completion of a pre-employment physical to the satisfaction of the City.
• Reasonable accommodation(s) for an individual with a qualified disability will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

APPLICATION RANKING

The complete application packet, which consists of the online application and cover letter, will be evaluated and scored. An applicants final ranking on the eligibility list will be determined by their submitted application materials. The Hiring Department will interview selected candidates from the eligibility list who best meet its needs.

If you are experiencing any technical (computer-related) difficulties or need help with attaching documents to your application, call the NEOGOV helpline for assistance at 1-855-524-5627.

The following benefits vary by bargaining unit. For full benefit information please refer to the Memorandum of Understanding or compensation resolution available at https://www.cityofsantamaria.org/services/departments/human-resources/salary-group-agreements.

Retirement

The City of Santa Maria is a member of the California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS). Your benefit factor is determined by the retirement formula, age, service credit and final compensation. Based upon your bargaining unit and hire date the benefit factor will vary.

Health Insurance

Medical Insurance is provided to employees and eligible dependents through the California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS). There are four Preferred Provider Organizations (PPOs) and three Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) to choose from. The benefit amount varies per bargaining unit.

The City has a medical insurance benefit program which provides either payment towards the premium for the employee and eligible dependents, or cash payment if you and your dependent(s) already have health benefits. Evidence of major medical health insurance coverage is required for those employees who receive the cash payment. See Memorandum of Understanding for eligibility requirements.

Dental Insurance

Dental Insurance is provided to employees and eligible dependents through The Standard covering 100% of Preventive; 90% of Basic; and 60% of Major with a minimal deductible. The plan includes a Max Builder option rewarding insured employees and their dependents who use only a portion of their annual dental benefit maximum. The benefit amount varies per bargaining unit.

Vision Insurance

Vision Insurance is available to employees and eligible dependents. Coverage is through VSP and covers an annual Well Vision exam and an allowance towards prescription glasses. The benefit amount varies per bargaining unit.

Life Insurance and AD&D Coverage

All employees working a minimum of thirty two (32) hours per week are eligible for Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) coverage. Supplemental life, spousal and dependent child options are also available. The benefit amount varies per bargaining unit.

Short-Term & Long-Term Disability

All employees working a minimum of thirty two (32) hours per week, excluding Sworn Police and Fire shall participate in the short-term and long-term disability plan with coverage up to 66 2/3% of salary. Sworn Police and Fire are covered through their respective bargaining unit.

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)

The City offers a flexible spending account option for Dependent Care and Health Care Expenses. With these plans, employees can choose to place a portion of their earnings into a personal reimbursement account on a pre-tax basis. Doing so lowers employees taxable income for the year and allows them to pay for their qualified dependent care and eligible health care expenses with pre-tax dollars.

Employee Assistance Program

The City provides an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) through AETNA for all full and part time employees and their eligible dependents. The confidential EAP program can refer employees to professional counselors and services that can help resolve emotional health, family and work-life issues, or provide help with childcare and eldercare assistance, financial and legal services, identity theft recovery services and daily living services.

Wellness Program

Offered to help employees gain knowledge, skills and motivation to improve the quality of their lives and well-being. The Citys Wellness Program includes ergonomic evaluations, flu shots, and Wellness Workshops during lunch and after work. Access to the Paul Nelson Aquatics Center for employee and immediate family members. Access to the Weight room at the Abel Maldonado Community Youth Center for employee and immediate family members. Access to employee discounts and special offers on travel, entertainment, shopping, dining and services.

Mentorship Program

This professional development program of mentoring and job shadowing provides mentees with an opportunity to be mentored by experienced staff with the objective of developing specific skills and knowledge that will enhance the participants leadership skills and promote professional growth.

Succession Planning

The academies are offered to all employees including those that are not yet in a supervisory role, but are interested in becoming leaders within the organization as well as our executive management team who have an interest in honing their skills and helping to prepare our future leaders. In addition to multiple leadership academies, the City offers quarterly Speaker Series, a corporate Toastmasters club available for City employees, site tours of various departments, and more.

Deferred Compensation

Employees may participate in the Citys 457 Deferred Compensation Plan sponsored by either Empower or CalPERS Supplemental Income. The plan enables employees to save salary and earn interest on a tax-deferred basis. A City match is available based upon representation.

The City also provides an IRS approved 401(a) plan sponsored by Empower for managers represented by Non-Represented Full-Time Management & Confidential (NMAC).

Post Employment Health Plan (PEHP)

Based upon your bargaining unit the City may participate in a PEHP plan that will provide reimbursement for out-of-pocket cost of qualified medical expenses such as prescription drugs, doctor co-pays, eyeglasses and cover the reimbursement of medical insurance premiums upon separation or retirement.

Holidays

The City offers seven (7) paid holidays per year. In addition, based upon your bargaining unit a bank of floating holiday hours is available to be used at the employees discretion.

Vacation

The City initially offers two weeks of paid vacation per calendar year for all full time employees. Accrual rates increase thereafter based upon your bargaining unit.

Sick Leave

Sick leave shall accrue a rate of eight hours for each month of continuous service, or approximately two weeks per year for all full time employees. Employees may use up to half of their annually accrued sick leave for family illness and up to five days (40 hours) per calendar year for bereavement leave.

Management Leave

Management level employees may receive a prorated amount of management leave time each new calendar year.

Educational Incentive Program

In addition to regular pay when education is in addition to the regular requirements of the job specifications and is work related.

Tuition Reimbursement

Based on your bargaining unit, you may be reimbursed for tuition and book costs of approved job related courses. The maximum amount of tuition reimbursement in any calendar year will vary based upon your bargaining unit.

Auto Allowance

Management level employees may receive auto allowance based upon the need of the position.

Telephone/PDA Stipend

Management level employees may receive a telephone and/or PDA stipend based upon the need of the position.

Bilingual Pay

Bilingual pay is provided to employees who are required by their department head to use both English and Spanish in communicating with the public while performing the duties of his/her position and who demonstrate appropriate skills in both speaking and understanding the Spanish language shall receive compensation. The benefit amount varies per bargaining unit.

01

Do you currently hold a Bachelors degree in civil or mechanical engineering, or in a related field?

• Yes
• No

02

If you answered NO to Question 1, list: A) the date you anticipate earning your Bachelors degree B) the field of your anticipated degree

03

Please list which valid certificate you currently hold from the California State Board of Registration for Civil, Geologist, and Professional Engineers.

04

Explain your experience performing engineering work for water systems (water, wastewater, and stormwater). If you do not have work experience, explain your completed coursework related to the engineering of water systems.

Required Question

Employer City of Santa Maria

Address 110 East Cook Street, Room 1

Santa Maria, California, 93454

Phone 805-925-0951 ext. 2203

Website http://www.cityofsantamaria.org