Engineering Assistant

Washington County, OR

$81K — $99K *
Real Estate & Construction
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Associate's Degree in civil engineering, construction management, surveying, or a related field; OR equivalent 4 years of experience in transportation projects.
  • Ability to learn technical software and engage with diverse teams.
  • Familiarity with Computer Aided Drafting (CAD) standards and processes.
  • Knowledge of transportation infrastructure design, construction, operations, and maintenance.
  • Understanding of ODOT standard construction specifications and QA/QC documentation.

Responsibilities

  • Support engineering and automation initiatives in transportation projects.
  • Collect and process ADA road features and update CAD standards.
  • Prepare technical studies and contract plans for roadway projects.
  • Assist project managers with design, permitting, and bid document preparation.
  • Review construction quality assurance and quality control documentation.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, with up to 95% employer-paid.
  • 11 paid holidays, 12 vacation days for new employees, and unlimited sick leave accumulation.
  • Award-winning wellness program focused on employee health and wellbeing, with various resources and support.
  • Access to flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses.
  • Participation in the Oregon Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) with a 6% PERS pick-up.
Full Job Description
Salary: $39.41 - $47.89 Hourly
Location : Hillsboro, OR
Job Type: Full Time Regular
Job Number: 25/26-316-01
Department: Land Use and Transportation
Division: Engineering
Opening Date: 07/19/2025
Closing Date: 8/3/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
FLSA: Non-Exempt

THE POSITION
Washington County's Department of Land Use & Transportation is now hiring two (2) Engineering Assistants to join the Engineering, Traffic, & Survey (ETS) Division and the Capital Projects Services (CPS) Division!
Engineering, Traffic, & Survey (ETS)
The PositionThe Engineering, Traffic, & Survey Division is seeking a motivated individual to support engineering and automation initiatives. This individual should have skills in learning technical software, following procedures, and working with a diverse team. Anticipated work tasks include setting up Automated Traffic Signal Performance Measures (ATSPM), collecting and processing Americans with Disability Act (ADA) road features, updating the Department's Computer Aided Drafting (CAD) standards, preparing technical studies, and supporting engineering professionals in the development of contract plans and roadway project construction. The position may also to support other divisions with project-related tasks.

Ideal CandidateAn ideal candidate for this position would be a self-starter with some knowledge/experience in transportation (mainly roads) infrastructure design, construction, operations, and/or maintenance. Familiarity with Computer Aided Drafting (CAD) from education or prior work experience is desired. The ideal candidate should also have the ability to learn new software and is comfortable working both in the office and out in the field.
Capital Project Services (CPS)
The Position
The Capital Project Services Division of the Department of Land Use and Transportation is seeking a motivated individual to support capital projects throughout the design and construction process. This position supports engineering professionals, project managers, and inspection staff. This individual should have skills in learning technical software, following procedures, and working with a diverse team. Anticipated work tasks will include support related to design, permitting, preparing bid documents, engineering plans, specifications, and estimates along with reviewing construction quality assurance and quality control documentation: reviewing and tracking quantity documentation and testing frequencies. The position duties also include supporting other various engineering activities including assisting with the department project management software.
Ideal Candidate
An ideal candidate for this position would be a self-starter with knowledge/experience in transportation infrastructure design, construction, operations, and/or maintenance. The candidate should have an understanding of ODOT standard construction specifications, manuals, materials testing, and quality documentation requirements. Familiarity with project management software is desired. The ideal candidate should also have the ability to learn new software and is comfortable working in the office and out in the field.
Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they can perform every job description task. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may come from a less traditional background. If you are interested in applying, we encourage you to think broadly about your background and skill set for the role, even if you believe you do not meet all of the hiring criteria described in the minimum qualifications.
ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES

To review the complete classification and list of knowledge, skills, and abilities for this position, follow this link:

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience
  • An Associate's Degree in civil engineering, construction engineering management, surveying, or closely related field; OR
  • Four (4) years of experience related to transportation projects that included the understanding of general civil engineering theory, principals, and methods with an emphasis on maintenance, plan preparation and review, construction Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC), road and bridge construction, and/or design review.
Additional Requirements
  • Possession of a driver's license valid in the State of Oregon and an acceptable driving record per Washington County policy. To review the Driver's License and Record Policy, please use this link: Driver's License & Records Policy


Please be clear and specific in the applicable sections of the employment application about how your background is relevant. This information must also be consistent with your supplemental question responses. Please note: Answers to the supplemental questions are typically evaluated separately from your application.

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION

Selection Process
  1. Apply Today: We ask that you complete and submit an online application, which will be used to screen for minimum qualifications (MQs) and to determine starting pay in accordance with the provision of the Oregon Equal Pay Law
  2. MQ Review: HR will screen applications for minimum qualifications after the posting closes.
  3. SME Review: Applications for candidates that meet minimum qualifications will be forwarded to a panel of subject matter experts (SME) who will review and score your cover letter and other application materials. This process may take up to 2 weeks.
  4. Panel Interview(s): Our goal is to schedule panel interviews with candidates that meet the minimum qualifications and pass the SME reviewas soon as possible.

Our Commitment to You
We are committed to using a merit-based system in which recruiting, selecting, and advancing employees is based on their relative knowledge, skills, and abilities. Washington County values a culture of equity, diverse perspectives, and life experiences. Our organization embraces innovation, collaboration and work-life harmony. We offer job stability, a comprehensive benefits package, and an opportunity to serve and support our diverse community. We are an equal opportunity employer with a commitment to diversity and an inclusive workforce. Women, minorities, veterans, and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Veterans' PreferenceIf you are a Veteran and would like to be considered for a Veterans' preference for this recruitment, please review instructions using this link: Veterans' Preference Points
Accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities ActReasonable accommodation is available to anyone whose specific disability prevents them from completing this application or participating in the selection process for this recruitment. To obtain confidential assistance please contact Human Resources 503-846-8606, or e-mail:[email protected]at least 48 hours before any step in the recruitment and selection process for which you feel you need accommodation.
Status of Your Application
You will be advised by e-mail of your status at each step in the application process, from initial application to final employment disposition. If you "opt out" or "unsubscribe" from email notifications from NEOGOV it will impact our ability to communicate with you about this and other recruitments.

Questions Regarding This Recruitment?
Contact Brighton Bohnenkamp, Talent Acquisition Business Partner at [email protected]

Additional Resources:
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* Washington County is a drug-free workplace *
This is a non-represented position and is not covered by a collective bargaining agreement.

Regular and limited duration full-time employees working 30 hours or more per week are eligible for benefits beginning on the first of the month following employment. Part-time regular, variable hour, and temporary positions are not eligible for medical, dental, and vision benefits.

Check Out Our Award-Winning Benefits & Wellness Program!
Washington County values your dedication to lead the future of our community through public service. Our total compensation package, which is comprised of more than just your annual salary, was built to show our commitment to the physical and financial health and wellbeing of you and your family. Your total compensation package includes a comprehensive benefits program with medical, dental, and vision coverage at up to 95% employer paid! Other benefits you'll enjoy as part of your total compensation package include:
  • Paid Time Off - 11 paid holidays including one floating holiday, 12 vacation days for new employees (accrual rates increase based on length of service), AND up to 96 hours of sick leave per year (unused sick leave accumulates from year to year without limit to provide pay and security if needed).
  • Wellness Program - Washington County has been named one of Oregon's Healthiest Employers by the Portland Business Journal for the past 7 years. We are proud to receive this award and will continue to make your health and wellbeing a priority by providing resources and support to help you and your family live and work well. Resources include smoking cessation, weight management, and stress management classes (online or telephonic with a personal health coach); discounts on gym memberships, fitness activities, and sports tickets; and Health & Wellness events and onsite flu shot clinics.
  • Alternative Care Coverage
  • Health Care and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Life and Disability Insurance (both County-provided and voluntary)
  • Oregon Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) - 6% PERS Pick-up
  • 457b Deferred Compensation Plan
  • Emergency Travel Assistance
  • Bike lockers and repair stations
  • A charitable giving program
  • Oregon College Savings Plan
To learn more about our Benefits and Wellness program and view our current benefits guide, plan summaries, and premium rates, click here

Already have medical, dental, and vision coverage? No problem! Full-time employees who choose to waive medical, dental, and vision coverage will receive a $125 monthly contribution into a tax-free Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA) VEBA account, which can be used to reimburse you for qualified out-of-pocket medical care costs, such as copays, deductibles, and prescription drugs. HRA accounts offer many benefits including significant tax savings, and no annual "use it or lose it" requirement. Proof of other creditable coverage is required.
01

Education: Which of the following best describes your highest level of related education completed?
  • Master's degree or higher
  • Bachelor's degree
  • Associate's degree
  • High school diploma or equivalent, such as a GED
  • None of the above

02

Education: In the space provided below, describe the focus of your college education and/or degree(s) related to this position.
If you do not have a college education and/or degree, enter N/A.
03

Select the years of experience related to transportation projects that included the understanding of general civil engineering theory, principals, and methods with an emphasis on maintenance, plan preparation and review, construction Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC), road and bridge construction, and/or design review you possess.
  • 4 or more years of experience
  • 3 years but less than 4 years of experience
  • 2 years but less than 3 years of experience
  • 1 year but less than 2 years of experience
  • Less than 1 year of experience
  • No experience

04

What position are you interest in being considered for?
  • Engineering, Traffic, & Survey (ETS)
  • Capital Projects Services (CPS)
  • Both

05

SUBJECT MATTER EXPERT REVIEW: The following supplemental questionnaire will be used to assist us in determining if you possess the knowledge, skills, and abilities to succeed in this position. Your responses to the questions will be evaluated and scored by a panel of subject matter experts. Your total score for this examination will affect your placement on the eligible list (a list of candidates eligible for interviews). The higher the score, which includes any applicable veterans' preference points, the higher the ranking on the eligible list. Generally, top 6 - 8 candidates are referred for each vacancy starting with the top ranked candidates.

We want to hear your authentic voice and original answers. Plagiarism in any form may result in lower scores and/or candidate removal from a recruitment. The County defines plagiarism as presenting the work of others as your own. Examples include copying work, using Artificial Intelligence (AI)-generated text, and receiving assistance from others.

Instructions & Helpful Tips
  • Answer each question carefully and accurately in the space provided. Unless otherwise instructed, ONLY the answers included in the space provided will be considered.
  • Make sure your responses are clear, concise, and complete. Your responses should also reflect what is documented in the education and work experience sections of your employment application.
  • If a question consists of multiple parts, answer each part separately.
  • Provide examples! Examples should be relevant to this position and question, and can be from your formal education, work experience (paid, internship, volunteer), and/or training, unless otherwise indicated in the question.
  • When describing a process or procedure, make sure to clearly describe your duties and responsibilities.
  • Minimize the use of jargon, abbreviations, and acronyms.
  • Each question is scored separately, so do not combine answers or refer to your answer from a different question.
  • Before submitting your application, proofread your answers including grammar and spelling.
  • Failure to follow the instructions may result in an incomplete application and removal from consideration.
By selecting yes below, you are indicating that you have read and understood the information provided, and agree to the above instructions.

If you have any questions, please contact the assigned Talent Acquisition Business Partner or email
  • Yes

06

In 300-500 words, please describe your education and experience specifically related to any (or multiple if applicable) of the primary responsibilities previously listed for the Engineering Assistant position.
Required Question

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