Assistant Engineer

California Water Service

Job Description:

All job functions listed below shall be under the technical guidance of higher level engineers/manager/supervisor in all project phases, perform routine engineering projects using prescribed methods that require standard solutions, and/or include specific and limited portions of a broader assignment of an experienced engineer. The Assistant Engineer will assist with asset replacement, modification, retrofits, rehabilitations and retirements. Additionally, the Engineer will support the reliability of operating assets by administering maintenance programs and by troubleshooting asset related issues. Finally, the Engineer will conduct routine analysis of asset performance and condition to reduce risk and support capital infrastructure renewal programs. This position can be located in either Chico or San Jose, CA.

Essential Functions:

• Assesses, analyzes, and solves problems related to job functions.

• Organizes, attends and leads meetings relating to their primary job function with other Cal Water staff members and public agencies to assess problems and determine solutions.

• Conducts research on existing infrastructure using databases, maps, drawings, photos, and paper files.

• Performs engineering calculations to solve well defined problems.

• Creates solicitation documents (Request for Bids, Proposals, Qualifications, or Information) specific to the scope of work for each project and reviews contractor or consultant bids.  Select the most appropriate bidder.

• Provides updates to maps, drawings and databases to reflect new projects or fix errors.

• Prepares data tables, graphs, cost estimations, justifications, and reports required for evaluating projects.

• Provides input, assists in planning and prepares projects and for the Company’s capital budget and Public Utility Commission (PUC) rate case filings including cost estimating and justification for projects, as well as data requests, tours, rebuttal, and settlement support.

• Occasionally directs the work of technicians and interns.

• Operates a provided company vehicle for travel to field locations.

• Participate in Continuous Improvement (CI) activities to improve all aspects of the company's operations.

• Conduct project safety planning and develop project safety documentation.

• Presents information in a public forum to state or local government agencies, special districts, or local communities.

• Makes project related decisions based on lowest life cycle cost calculations.

• Performs other duties as assigned, as appropriate for the classification.

• Conduct routine analysis of asset performance and condition to optimize operations, reduce risk, and support infrastructure renewal programs.

• Provides basic asset program administration to ensure completion.

• Basic understanding of asset installation practices, construction quality check points and Operations and Maintenance practices.

• Performs field asset inspections and basic condition assessment throughout Company Districts.

• Performs work on-site in the assigned office location.

• Troubleshoots asset related issues and determines corrective measures.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering or related field from accredited college or university. An Engineer in Training certificate from the applicable state would be considered equivalent to graduation.

• Valid California Class C Driver’s License.

• Engineering work experience.

• Able to lead productive meetings and present in a public forum.

• Effective written communication.

• Analytical, problem solving, and mathematical skills necessary to complete job assignments.

KNOWLEDGE/ABILITY

• Good working knowledge of English and ability to effectively communicate with their supervisor, co-workers, and the public. 

• Ability to analyze, and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations.

• Ability to write clear and concise reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals.

• Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from managers, customers, and the public.

• Ability to communicate and maintain effe