Engineering Assistant

Join the City of Bellingham's Public Works Department as our next Engineering Assistant and play a key role in advancing meaningful Public Works projects that support our community's infrastructure. This position offers a dynamic blend of technical work, collaboration, and problem-solving in a fast-paced environment. Join us in shaping the future of our community by applying online today!

The Engineering Assistant performs technical engineering design tasks and engineering computations for Public Works projects. Interprets and translates raw field data into computerized drawings using computer-aided design and drafting (CADD) systems, Geographic Information System (GIS) and engineering design software. Facilitates the processing of permits required for projects. Recommends and maintains design, drafting and data collection standards for engineering projects. Coordinates production of digital base mapping by consultants.

Conducts technical research, analyzes data and generates customized reports and graphic presentations. Researches and provides technical assistance to the general public, City staff, contractors and consultants. Assists Project Engineers in preparing preliminary project design plans and supports Real Property, Construction, and Development teams with drafting tasks.

SALARY AND BENEFITS INFORMATION:

This position will start at Step 1 ($42.42/hour). Employees receive step increases annually in accordance with the Guild of Pacific Northwest Employees, Local 1937 Collective Bargaining Agreement and City policy. The full hourly range for this position is $42.42- $55.35. For internal candidates, placement within the range is based on City Pay Placement Procedures.

At the City of Bellingham, we offer a comprehensive benefits package that helps you thrive in both your career and personal life. Join our team and enjoy the peace of mind knowing that you and your loved ones are well cared for. Here's a closer look at the outstanding benefits that come with being part of our team. You can find more details on our employment benefits page and labor agreements page.

* 10 hours of vacation leave per month, with increased accrual over time

* 12 paid holidays + 1 floating holiday per year

* 8 hours sick leave accrued monthly

* Medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and their families

* Life insurance and long-term disability coverage

* Flexible spending accounts and medical insurance opt-out program

* Access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

* Washington State Retirement plan (DRS) for retirement security

* Optional 457 deferred compensation (Retirement Savings Plan) with employer match

Leave accruals are based on 1.0 FTE, accruals are pro-rated if part-time and require employees to be in paid status at least 120 hours/month.

Closing Date/Time:
Tues. 7/7/26, 4:30 PM Pacific Time

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

* Performs technical engineering design activities on Public Works projects. Uses field survey notes and electronic data, site inspections, GIS and engineering records to convert design concepts into detailed construction plans. Interprets and translates raw field data into computerized drawings utilizing the CADD system appropriate to level of responsibility. Uses engineering design software to create three-dimensional surface models, profiles and cross-sections.

Performs preliminary project design tasks such as vertical and horizontal alignment, earthwork and quantity calculations, curb-return elevations, top and toe-of-slope calculations, and connections to existing improvements. Finalizes plans according to instructions from Project Engineer. All designs are reviewed and receive final approval from engineers to ensure accuracy and compliance.

* Coordinates, facilitates and supports the permit application process for Public Works projects, including internal City permitting processes, as well as the permitting processes for regulatory agencies. Assists staff in preparing and tracking the status of permit applications.

* Coordinates production of digital base mapping and project files by consultants for capital improvement projects and other areas as needed. Assists in providing direction to, and scope of work for consultants. Reviews consultant work products to ensure accuracy, completeness, quality and conformance with standards.

* Recommends and maintains design, drafting and data collection standards for engineering projects. Assists defining departmental methods and standards for digital drawings and project files. Maintains a CADD library of layering conventions, symbols and line types, lettering styles, and standard sheets. Also assists developing customized CADD applications or routines.

* Researches and provides technical assistance and information to staff, consulting engineers, general public, and private developers. Utilizes GIS, CADD, and a variety of database and spreadsheet applications to analyze data and generate customized reports and graphic presentations.

* Supports Real Property,…