Salary : $145,392.00 - $175,032.00 Annually
Location : Concord, CA
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number: 660 - DG - 2025
Department: Engineering
Division: Engineering
Opening Date: 08/25/2025
Closing Date: 9/12/2025 5:00 PM Pacific
GENERAL JOB FUNCTIONFLSA: ExemptBargaining Unit: Local 21CCWD is seeking an Assistant or Associate Engineer for the Design Division of our Engineering Department. The Assistant/Associate Engineer will be responsible for implementing capital projects to renew and improve CCWD's water infrastructure systems, including untreated water intakes, pump stations, pipelines, canals, and reservoirs; water treatment plants; treated water pump stations and reservoirs; distribution systems; and Los Vaqueros Watershed facilities.
Typical responsibilities include:
- Preparing engineering plans, specifications, calculations, studies, and reports.
- Procuring and managing design consultants.
- Reviewing design deliverables and leading design review meetings.
- Developing cost estimates.
- Providing project updates to stakeholders and CCWD management.
- Serving as a technical resource throughout CCWD, including support to the Operations and Maintenance Department.
- Performing or managing condition assessments.
- Assisting the Planning Department by reviewing encroachment permit applications and third party projects that have the potential to impact CCWD's properties and assets.
- Assisting with the preparation of CCWD's Capital Improvement Program plan and budget.
We are looking for a motivated team member who:
- Has experience in infrastructure design and public contracting, preferably with a focus on water systems.
- Understands principles and practices of project management, contract administration, and water system operation.
- Possesses strong interpersonal and leadership skills.
- Demonstrates a record of successfully completing projects.
Values and incorporates safety in work practices and design products.
ASSOCIATE ENGINEER:DEFINITION Under direction performs a variety of professional engineering work in the planning, design, construction, and operation of the District's water treatment plants, treated water and raw water distribution systems, and storage systems and facilities, and related infrastructure improvement, maintenance, and construction projects; prepares engineering plans, specifications, studies, and reports; conducts site visits to monitor construction project progress; and performs related duties as assigned.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED Receives direction from assigned supervisory or management personnel. Associate Engineers exercise technical and functional direction and provides training to assigned staff. Assistant and Associate Engineers exercise no direct supervision over staff.
CLASS CHARACTERISTICSThis is the fully qualified journey-level classification in the engineer series and the position requires possession of registration as a Professional Engineer in the State of California. Positions at this level are distinguished from the Assistant-level by having responsibility for managing assigned projects and collaborating with other departments, as well as 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 Senior Engineer in that the latter performs the more complex work assigned to the series requiring a comprehensive knowledge of civil engineering and project management practices and principles, oversees engineering programs and/or oversees multiple large engineering projects being managed by other engineering staff, and exercises direct supervision over assigned professional and technical staff.
Movement from the Assistant-level to the Associate-level is contingent on meeting performance standards established by the District and the resource management needs of the organization. Advancement from the entry level to the journey level is in accordance with District policies and procedures.
ASSISTANT ENGINEER:DEFINITIONUnder general supervision performs a variety of professional engineering work in the planning, design, construction, and operation of the District's water treatment plants, treated water and raw water distribution systems, and storage systems and facilities, and related infrastructure improvement, maintenance, and construction projects; prepares engineering plans, specifications, studies, and reports; conducts site visits to monitor construction project progress; and performs related duties as assigned.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISEDReceives general supervision from assigned supervisory or management personnel. Associate Engineers exercise technical and functional direction and provides training to assigned staff. Assistant and Associate Engineers exercise no direct supervision over staff.
CLASS CHARACTERISTICSThis is the entry-level classification in the engineer series and the position requires registration as an Engineer-In-Training in the State of California. Initially under close supervision, incumbents learn and perform professional civil engineering work. 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 Associate-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.
Movement from the Assistant-level to the Associate-level is contingent on meeting performance standards established by the District and the resource management needs of the organization. Advancement from the entry level to the journey level is in accordance with District policies and procedures.
EXAMPLES OF DUTIESASSOCIATE ENGINEER: (Illustrative Only)
Management reserves the right within the scope of the classification to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.
- Performs a variety of professional-level engineering work in the research, planning, design, and construction of capital infrastructure improvement and maintenance projects.
- Prepares preliminary engineering designs for presentation to groups involved in the project; prepares specifications and cost estimates, sketches of project options, and results of research requirements; prepares final designs for capital projects.
- Completes a variety of engineering calculations including, but not limited to, pipeline capacities, structural capacities, hydraulic pressure, pipe and open channel flows, groundwater flows, and related topics in support of projects and technical studies.
- Conducts reviews of project alternatives considering financial, operational, maintenance, property/right-of-way, and constructability factors; conducts analyses and modeling and evaluates results to determine project-specific facility requirements and parameters.
- Reviews and processes necessary permits, right-of-way agreements, and other documents related to use of District property or right-of-way, or of other public lands and right-of-way that are the District's responsibility; researches, coordinates, and reviews proposed and existing right-of-way for acquisition or quit claim action; prepares documentation for easement acquisitions and coordinates activities with appropriate District departments.
- Participates in engineering studies and prepares technical documents including, but not limited to, feasibility studies, preliminary and final design, environmental conditions, hydrogeology/soil conditions, water supply assessment, strategic and master plans, and related materials; coordinates the review and approval of documentation with District stakeholders.
- Under the guidance of a Senior or Principal Engineer, performs project engineer tasks on various applicant projects, infrastructure improvement projects or planning studies; serves as point of contact for project stakeholders including District staff, consultants, contractors, and external agencies; establishes project scope of work including schedules and cost estimates; coordinates project meetings and presentations; responds to requests for information; requests necessary permits; ensures compliance with regulatory requirements and interagency agreements; discusses status of projects and solutions with the supervisor, other engineers, and/or District staff; evaluates and recommends solutions to problems.
- Monitors and provides engineering support for construction work in progress, including conducting field investigations to ensure compliance with approved plans, specifications, and standards; maintains records of project activities including change orders and approvals.
- Reviews constructions submittals by contractors including shop drawings and change orders; reviews and researches alternative approaches in resolving change orders; ensures quality and conformance to project intent and professional and District standards.
- Participates in the Request for Proposals (RFP) process for assigned projects; prepares supporting documentation and estimates; coordinates meetings; ensures clear communication on project among stakeholders; assists in establishing selection criteria; reviews proposals based on selection criteria and provides recommendations; assists in contract negotiations; reviews contracts and agreements and provides feedback/comments; prepares a variety of documentation such as purchase orders and tasks orders; administers contracts, reviews invoices and recommends action.
- Coordinates with legal counsel to finalize contract documents for bidding; coordinates and reviews the bid process; reviews bid results and recommends action for Board approval.
- Provides engineering support for facilities planning studies including reviewing land use planning activities related to forecasting future water demands and long-term water facility needs; identifies near-term and projected long-term impacts on District water facilities; and prepares alternatives and recommends system improvements.
- Prepares various communications including presentations, reports, and memoranda and other information necessary to coordinate project activities with internal and external stakeholders.
- Performs research and data gathering of technical datasets, historic information, and records to provide technical support and fulfill reporting requirements in response to requests from internal and external groups.
- Provides engineering support to water operations staff relative to water quality issues; prepares and updates operating procedures for treatment facilities and prepares various technical reports; evaluates treatment plant performance and distribution system water quality; assists in ensuring compliance with water quality regulations; evaluates impact of new and pending legislation and regulations on treatment facilities and operations; prepares recommendations regarding design and start-up of modified and new facilities.
- Assists in the preparation of the District's Capital Improvement Program plan and budget.
- Answers questions and provides information to the public and other agencies; investigates and responds to complaints and inquiries; recommends corrective actions to resolve issues.
- Organizes and maintains accurate and detailed databases, files, and records; verifies accuracy of information, researches discrepancies, and records information.
- Observes and complies with all District and mandated safety rules, regulations, and protocols.
- Performs related duties as assigned.
In addition, the Associate Engineer:- Assumes responsible charge of engineering plans, calculations, specifications, reports, and decisions as defined by the Professional Engineers Act; stamps work as the Engineer of Record for various capital and applicant projects as assigned.
ASSISTANT ENGINEER: (Illustrative Only)
Management reserves the right within the scope of the classification to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.
- Performs a variety of professional-level engineering work in the research, planning, design, and construction of capital infrastructure improvement and maintenance projects.
- Prepares preliminary engineering designs for presentation to groups involved in the project; prepares specifications and cost estimates, sketches of project options, and results of research requirements; prepares final designs for capital projects.
- Completes a variety of engineering calculations including, but not limited to, pipeline capacities, structural capacities, hydraulic pressure, pipe and open channel flows, groundwater flows, and related topics in support of projects and technical studies.
- Conducts reviews of project alternatives considering financial, operational, maintenance, property/right-of-way, and constructability factors; conducts analyses and modeling and evaluates results to determine project-specific facility requirements and parameters.
- Reviews and processes necessary permits, right-of-way agreements, and other documents related to use of District property or right-of-way, or of other public lands and right-of-way that are the District's responsibility; researches, coordinates, and reviews proposed and existing right-of-way for acquisition or quit claim action; prepares documentation for easement acquisitions and coordinates activities with appropriate District departments.
- Participates in engineering studies and prepares technical documents including, but not limited to, feasibility studies, preliminary and final design, environmental conditions, hydrogeology/soil conditions, water supply assessment, strategic and master plans, and related materials; coordinates the review and approval of documentation with District stakeholders.
- Under the guidance of a Senior or Principal Engineer, performs project engineer tasks on various applicant projects, infrastructure improvement projects or planning studies; serves as point of contact for project stakeholders including District staff, consultants, contractors, and external agencies; establishes project scope of work including schedules and cost estimates; coordinates project meetings and presentations; responds to requests for information; requests necessary permits; ensures compliance with regulatory requirements and interagency agreements; discusses status of projects and solutions with the supervisor, other engineers, and/or District staff; evaluates and recommends solutions to problems.
- Monitors and provides engineering support for construction work in progress, including conducting field investigations to ensure compliance with approved plans, specifications, and standards; maintains records of project activities including change orders and approvals.
- Reviews constructions submittals by contractors including shop drawings and change orders; reviews and researches alternative approaches in resolving change orders; ensures quality and conformance to project intent and professional and District standards.
- Participates in the Request for Proposals (RFP) process for assigned projects; prepares supporting documentation and estimates; coordinates meetings; ensures clear communication on project among stakeholders; assists in establishing selection criteria; reviews proposals based on selection criteria and provides recommendations; assists in contract negotiations; reviews contracts and agreements and provides feedback/comments; prepares a variety of documentation such as purchase orders and tasks orders; administers contracts, reviews invoices and recommends action.
- Coordinates with legal counsel to finalize contract documents for bidding; coordinates and reviews the bid process; reviews bid results and recommends action for Board approval.
- Provides engineering support for facilities planning studies including reviewing land use planning activities related to forecasting future water demands and long-term water facility needs; identifies near-term and projected long-term impacts on District water facilities; and prepares alternatives and recommends system improvements.
- Prepares various communications including presentations, reports, and memoranda and other information necessary to coordinate project activities with internal and external stakeholders.
- Performs research and data gathering of technical datasets, historic information, and records to provide technical support and fulfill reporting requirements in response to requests from internal and external groups.
- Provides engineering support to water operations staff relative to water quality issues; prepares and updates operating procedures for treatment facilities and prepares various technical reports; evaluates treatment plant performance and distribution system water quality; assists in ensuring compliance with water quality regulations; evaluates impact of new and pending legislation and regulations on treatment facilities and operations; prepares recommendations regarding design and start-up of modified and new facilities.
- Assists in the preparation of the District's Capital Improvement Program plan and budget.
- Answers questions and provides information to the public and other agencies; investigates and responds to complaints and inquiries; recommends corrective actions to resolve issues.
- Organizes and maintains accurate and detailed databases, files, and records; verifies accuracy of information, researches discrepancies, and records information.
- Observes and complies with all District and mandated safety rules, regulations, and protocols.
- Performs related duties as assigned.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONSASSOCIATE ENGINEER: 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:
Training: Equivalent to a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in engineering or a related field.
Experience: Two (2) years of professional engineering experience.
Licenses and Certifications:
- Possession of a valid license as a Professional Engineer issued by the State of California to be maintained throughout employment
- Possession of a valid California driver's license to be maintained throughout employment.
In addition to the qualifications for Assistant Engineer:
Knowledge of: - Basic principles and practices of project management.
- Principles and practices of contract administration.
- Demand forecasting methods and relationship between land use planning and water utility demands and open-channel and closed-circuit hydraulics to determine capacity with existing facilities and to properly size future facilities.
- Principles and practices of water treatment, and treatment facility design and operation.
Ability to: - Perform complex engineering work requiring a high level of independent judgement.
- Review and prepare routine to complex engineering plans, specifications, and contracts.
- Understand the organization and operation of the District and of outside agencies as necessary to assume assigned responsibilities.
ASSISTANT ENGINEER: 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:
Training: Equivalent to a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in engineering or a related field.
Experience: Two (2) years of professional engineering experience.
Licenses and Certifications:
- Possession of a valid California driver's license to be maintained throughout employment.
- Possession of a valid certificate as an Engineer-in-Training issued by the State of California to be maintained throughout employment.
- Knowledge of:
- Theories, principles, practices and methods of engineering as applied to the planning, design, construction, operations, and maintenance of raw and treated water treatment, distribution, and storage systems.
- Construction management principles and practices.
- Basic principles and concepts of land use planning and land surveying.
- Principles and techniques of conducting engineering studies, evaluating alternatives, making sound recommendations, and preparing and presenting effective and technical reports.
- Principles and techniques of hydraulic modeling and analysis.
- Applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulatory codes, ordinances, and procedures relevant to assigned area of responsibility.
- Basic and advanced mathematic and statistical techniques.
- Apply principles and practices of safety and prevention through design, including reviewing and applying state and federal safety standards, reviewing planned operation and maintenance of facilities, and incorporating standards and best practices into designs, and following safety practices during work efforts and assigned tasks.
- Principles and procedures of record-keeping and preparation of reports and correspondence.
- Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and District 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:
- Perform a variety of professional-level engineering work in the research, planning, design, and construction of capital improvement and maintenance projects.
- Review and prepare routine engineering plans, specifications, and contracts.
- Plan and conduct effective engineering analyses, modeling, and studies.
- Analyze, interpret, summarize, and present engineering and technical information and data in an effective manner.
- Learn and understand the organization and operation of the District and of outside agencies as necessary to assume assigned responsibilities.
- Effectively represent the District in meetings with governmental agencies, community groups, and various businesses, professional, and regulatory organizations, and in meetings with individuals.
- Prepare clear and concise reports, correspondence, presentations, and other written materials.
- Make accurate mathematical and statistical computations.
- Read, understand, and interpret technical documents related to the area of assignment.
- Establish and maintain a variety of filing, record-keeping, and tracking systems.
- Understand, interpret, and apply all pertinent laws, codes, regulations, policies and procedures, and standards relevant to work performed.
- Independently organize work, set priorities, meet critical deadlines, and follow-up on assignments.
- Effectively use computer systems, software applications, 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.
- Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy, procedural, and legal guidelines.
- Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
- Demonstrate understanding of, sensitivity to, and respect for the diverse socio-economic, racial, ethnic, religious, and cultural backgrounds, diverse abilities, gender, gender identity and expression, and sexual orientation of District staff and communities served.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION PHYSICAL DEMANDSWhen working in an office environment, must possess mobility to work in a standard office setting and use standard office equipment, including a computer; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; and hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone; ability to stand and walk between work areas is required. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator and to operate standard office equipment.
When working in the field, must possess strength, stamina, and mobility to perform light physical work; to sit, stand, and walk on level, uneven, or slippery surfaces; reach, twist, turn, kneel, bend, stoop, squat, and crouch in conducting inspections; to operate a motor vehicle and visit various District and meeting sites; and vision to conduct inspections. The job involves fieldwork requiring frequent walking in operational areas. Employees must possess the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects weighing up to 25 pounds.
ENVIRONMENTAL ELEMENTSEmployees work in an office environment with moderate noise levels, controlled temperature conditions, and no direct exposure to hazardous physical substances. Employees also work in the field and are exposed to loud noise levels, cold and hot temperatures, inclement weather conditions, road hazards, vibration, confining workspace, chemicals, mechanical and/or electrical hazards, hazardous physical substances and fumes, dust, and air contaminants.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITYContra Costa Water District is committed to equal employment opportunity for all employees and applicants. We prohibit discrimination based upon race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic information, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other actual or perceived status protected under federal, state, or local law. Employment decisions are based on individual qualifications and performance.
DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSIONOne of the many CCWD goals is to pursue organizational excellence through diversity, equity, inclusivity, leadership, and professionalism. We recognize the strengths of staff creativity, innovation, problem-solving, and improved decision-making resulting from diverse perspectives, and we strive to be a culturally diverse organization that values, recognizes, and supports inclusion.
CONVICTION HISTORYA condition of employment for all CCWD positions includes successfully passing a Department of Justice Live Scan fingerprint check and completion of the federal Employment Eligibility Verification Form I-9. Additionally, in compliance with federal law, CCWD participates in E-Verify.
DISASTER SERVICE WORKER All CCWD employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law. As such, CCWD employees may be called upon to support the activities of CCWD during an emergency situation.
Applicants requesting reasonable accommodation during any phase of the recruitment process should contact Human Resources at 925-688-8002.
In addition to a competitive salary, for regular-status, non-temporary positions, the Contra Costa Water District offers an excellent benefits package!
International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers, Local 21 benefits include:
FULL-TIME BENEFITS ARE LISTED BELOW (PART-TIME BENEFITS ARE PRORATED PER THE MOU):
- Employer-paid medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
- Employer-paid short term and long term disability insurance
- Voluntary participation in the Flexible Spending Accounts for dependent care and healthcare reimbursements
- Flexible Benefit of $50 per month; equating to $600 per year
- Voluntary participation in the 401(a) and 457(b) deferred compensation plans with up to a 3% employer match
- 11 paid holidays per year
- 56 hours of paid administrative leave per year in lieu of compensation time off for FLSA exempt classifications. (FLSA non-exempt positions such as Management Assistant's do not receive administrative leave.)
- 40-hour vacation credit upon hire plus vacation accrual at 10 days during the first year; 15 days per year accrual during year two; with additional accrual increases thereafter
- 96 hours of sick leave accrual per year
- Employer-paid retiree health insurance for retiree and dependents. Local 21 employees currently contribute 2.2% of base pay on a pretax basis for this benefit. Employees hired on or after January 1, 2016 are subject to a 10-year District-service vesting period to be eligible for fully paid retiree medical upon direct retirement from the District. The District contracts with CalPERS for medical benefits.
- A defined benefit retirement plan; reciprocity with CalPERS and CalPERS reciprocal agencies. (Reciprocal agency service does not count toward the 5-year or 10-year vesting requirement for fully paid retiree medical.) The defined benefit is 2.35% at 55 for those with classic reciprocity. New hires who are not eligible for classic reciprocity are eligible for the 2% at 62 PEPRA defined benefit.
- Participation in Social Security and Medicare
- Extensive Wellness Program including 50% employer-paid gym membership, up to $40.00 per month
- Health Insurance Credit for eligible dependents who have other medical benefit coverage
- Educational Assistance Program up to $3,000 per year per employee
- Employer-paid Employee Assistance Program offering counseling and referral services
- Employees receive free admission to Los Vaqueros Reservoir that offers recreation areas, fishing, boating, and hiking trails.
- And more!
For additional information and the full details, eligibility, and provisions regarding the District's applicable benefits package, please visit:
01
Do you possess a current valid California Professional Engineer license?
02
Please enter your valid California Professional Engineer License Number
03
Do you possess a current valid Engineer-In-Training (EIT) certificate?
04
Please enter your valid California EIT certificate number.
05
Describe a project of which you are particularly proud and discuss why it is meaningful to you.
Required Question