Electrical Engineer

Overview

The City of Ames is conducting a recruitment to establish a Civil Service eligibility list for the Electrical Engineer classification. The list will be valid for up to one year from the date of certification by the Ames Civil Service Commission and may be used to fill one or more vacancies. City Civil Service employees who have previously held status in this classification and wish to voluntarily demote or laterally transfer must submit their application by the deadline.

• Perform electrical engineering duties related to the City’s electric facilities and operations.
• Work primarily in distribution and/or substation design and project management.
• Prepare, review, and modify specifications, drawings, and construction work packages.
• Collaborate with customers, contractors, staff, and other City departments and agencies in planning, design, and project management of electrical distribution and/or substation projects.
• Respond to general and/or project‑specific inquiries from customers.
• Conduct studies and inspections to support operation and maintenance of the City’s electric system.
• Prepare plans, designs, drawings, maps, reports, cost estimates, and work instructions.
• Evaluate bids, prepare specifications for construction contracts, and coordinate design and construction activities.
• Provide engineering technical support to other City departments.
• Ensure compliance with City operating procedures, safety rules, policies, and applicable regulations.

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from an accredited institution, graduation date May 2026 or earlier.
• At least 3 months of engineering experience in the appropriate functional area (co‑op or internship experience may be applied).
• Engineer in Training (EIT) certificate within twelve months of appointment.
• Valid driver’s license.

• Comprehensive knowledge of electrical engineering principles and practices.
• Knowledge of industry safety rules, operating guidelines, City policies, and regulations.
• Knowledge of federal, state, and local regulations related to electric utility design, construction, and operations.
• Knowledge of computer applications, CAD, and GIS.
• Skill in applying engineering theory to operational problems.
• Ability to perform technical research, evaluate alternatives, and develop engineering solutions.
• Ability to prepare and interpret engineering plans, specifications, and complex design details.
• Ability to perform advanced complex mathematical computations and analyses.
• Ability to prepare clear, concise written reports and communicate effectively orally and in writing.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with citizens, supervisors, co‑workers, contractors, vendors, and representatives of other governmental organizations.
• Ability to work independently without supervision and operate a motor vehicle.

• Sitting 60 % of the time; sitting and using arm/leg controls (e.g., driving) 10 %; standing (but not walking) 10 %; standing and walking 20 %.
• Routinely lifting objects up to 25 lb; occasionally 25–50 lb; infrequently over 50 lb.
• Required activities: climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, finger dexterity, grasping, feeling, talking, hearing, repetitive motions.
• Prepared for exposure to extreme cold, heat, noise, mechanical hazards, electrical hazards, atmospheric conditions affecting respiratory system or skin, and oils.

• Motor vehicle
• Two‑way radio
• General office equipment and computers, including CAD/GIS and communication software
• Spreadsheet, database, engineering applications
• Safety equipment and clothing

Comprehensive benefits package available. Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program eligibility: must have made 120 qualifying payments while employed by a qualifying employer.

The City of Ames offers a merit salary range that reflects employee qualifications, experience, and expertise. The median salary for this position is $91,716. Salary may be closer to or above the median for candidates whose education, experience, and skills exceed the minimum requirements.

• Evaluation of education and experience.
• Phone interview (optional depending on number of qualified candidates).
• On‑site interview, manager meeting, reference checks, and criminal background check (including sex offender registry). All candidates will be notified by email of application status.
• Preference may be given to applicants possessing qualifications above the minimum.