Mahaska County Courthouse

Assistant County Engineer

  • Department: Engineer
  • Status: Full Time
  • FLSA: Exempt
  • Reports To: County Engineer
  • Post Date: September 13, 2021
  • Application Deadline: December 31, 2021

Job Description

Under supervision, performs professional design and related engineering services in the preparation of construction plans for bid such as bridges, box culverts, grading and paving projects using established design standards; uses and maintains various computer and technical manuals, standards, engineering aids and databases.  Assists the County Engineer in all phases of contract administration, public relations and supervision of workforce as delegated. 

Job Requirements

Essential Duties and Functions (The following duties are normal for this position.  These are not to be construed as exclusive or all inclusive.  Other duties may be required and assigned):

  • Performs standard engineering practices in the planning, designing and testing of all construction projects.
  • Assists the County Engineer with administrative details and assumes responsibility for county projects; keeps the County Engineer informed on the progress of all county projects.
  • Supervises and coordinates work for field and office staff through the established chain of command within the department.  Evaluates field and office activities with the assistance of the County Engineer and assures compliance with established standards, policies and procedures.  Recommends new hires; trains employees; maintains log of personnel assignments; approves and processes leave requests; assigns projects and checks results; approves overtime hours; monitors time and work records; handles grievances and complaints in the absence of the County Engineer; administers disciplinary actions.
  • Maintains an effective working relationship with the Board of Supervisors, state officials, federal officials, utility representatives, contractors, landowners, county officials, staff and the general public.  Performs public relations duties by way of telephone, email, letters and direct contact.
  • Utilizes knowledge and computer drafting skills to prepare detailed design drawings including plans for grading, bridge, paving, and culvert projects; follows general guidelines from the County Engineer and complies with current standards. 
  • Prepares and/or provides input to the County Engineer for the preparation of reports related to department operations as required by local, state, and federal regulations.
  • Provides technical assistance and reviews completed work for accuracy and completeness. 
  • Researches right-of-way records, property deeds, and necessary survey information required for project design.
  • Inspects work of contractors on construction projects to verify compliance with plans and specifications.
  • Coordinates the establishment and vacating of roads.
  • Prepares contracts, easements and plats.
  • Issues purchase orders and has the authority to purchase items for County operations.
  • Performs related work as directed.

Minimum Training, Experience, and Requirements to Perform Essential Functions:
Possession of a valid driver’s license.  Bachelor of Science Degree in Civil/Construction Engineering from an accredited college required.  The successful completion of the Fundamentals of Engineering exam is required within 24 months of employment.  Experience in construction design, survey and inspection including responsibility for project preparation, documentation and development is desired.  Iowa DOT certification in Level I Aggregate, Level II Aggregate, Level I PCC, Level II PCC, Level I HMA, will be required or the ability to obtain these certifications within 24 months of employment. 

General computer literacy required.   Knowledge and ability to use CAD (AutoCAD Civil 3D), GIS (ArcGIS), survey equipment and technical software is desired. 

Physical Requirements: Vary according to time of year.  Uses a variety of surveying instruments (GPS, total station, transit, level, locators, etc.) and various construction inspection devices such as air meter, concrete beam testing machine, aggregate sieve shaker.  Uses various hand tools such as ax, shovel, spade, malls, and posthole augers in survey and inspection functions.  Occasionally required to lift equipment, materials, supplies and related items weighing up to 50 lbs.  The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The work environment will fluctuate with weather conditions throughout the year.  The employee may be subjected to extreme weather conditions for short periods of time.  The employee may be subjected to working in adverse weather conditions for extended periods of time.  The employee may be subjected to working in road construction and maintenance activity environments with periodic high noise levels, dusty conditions, and hazardous conditions.  The employee may be subjected to extended periods of working independently or as a group.   

Mathematical Ability: College level math (algebra, geometry, and trigonometry) is required.  Ability to compute elevations, contours, grades, storage areas, quantities of materials, cross-sections, dimensions, profiles, volumes and present graphic representation of project plans using design software.  Display, modify and produce design plans and maintain records and inventories.    

Language Ability & Interpersonal Communications: Ability to read, analyze, and interpret maps, maintenance manuals and similar type documents.  Ability to effectively write and present publicly written reports and presentations.  Ability to speak the English language distinctly, with poise, voice control, and confidence. 

Job Hours

Normal working hours are 7:00AM-3:30PM, however this job from time to time requires irregular hours depending on construction activities including responding to emergency work.  Job is subject to call 24 hours/day.

Applications & Related Files

Additional Information

Please return the completed application, resume, and cover letter to:

Mahaska County Engineer
2074 Old Highway 163                        
Oskaloosa, Iowa 52577

or

Email: hefner@mahaskacountyia.gov

Mahaska County is an equal opportunity employer.

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