Private Development Principal Engineer

The City of Bend is accepting applications for one (1) regular, full-time Principal Engineer in the Private Development Engineering Division of the Community Development Department. This is a non-represented, FLSA exempt (overtime ineligible) position. The City may use this job posting to create an eligibility list for future hiring purposes. Please review the entire job posting, including the application requirements at the end.

Reporting to the Private Development City Engineer, the Principal Engineer in Private Development Engineering serves as a key leader within the division. This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys complex challenges and is passionate about supporting staff. In this role you'll work on impactful construction projects throughout the project lifecycle, support inspection staff, and mentor junior engineers. The Principal Engineer will help shape some of Bend's largest developments including large subdivisions and mixed‑use buildings while tackling complex infrastructure issues related to urban density and storm water regulation.

Principal Engineer

• Work in the field supporting the Inspection Team and interacting with the development community. Use communication skills to resolve conflict and facilitate productive, solution‑focused conversation based on Standards and Specifications.
• Provide supervision and support for Engineering Inspectors by understanding challenges, offering guidance, and developing strategies to improve processes.
• Supervise and mentor Private Development Engineering staff. Provide leadership and guidance with a focus on employee development and growth.
• Partner and collaborate with other Division Leaders in Community Development as member of the Community Development Department Management Team.
• Evaluate multiple sources of information and use analytical and evaluative judgement to problem‑solve challenges related to specifications and, with approval from the Private Development City Engineer, implement creative solutions.
• Review complex Private Development plans.

We’re looking for someone who is detail‑oriented, analytical, and likes to find solutions to challenging situations. The ideal candidate will be a strong communicator who is comfortable with difficult conversations and thrives in a collaborative environment. They will bring a customer service mindset to their work ensuring customers feel heard when navigating complex situations. Highly qualified candidates will have construction management experience, and experience preparing plans and managing construction as an engineer of record.

The ideal candidate will have engineering experience in Bend due to its unique geology and construction environment.

• Bachelor’s degree (B.A./B.S.) from a four‑year college or university in Civil Engineering or an equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities as outlined in this job description.
• 6 to 8 years’ experience with 2 to 3 years of people‑management experience in a similar position and/or performing similar tasks.

• Certification as a Professional Engineer in the State of Oregon required or ability to acquire within six months of appointment.
• Current and valid Driver’s license per City policies outlined in the Employee Handbook.

• DBIA certification.

Applications received by Tuesday, December 9, 2025, 12:00 PM (noon) Pacific Time will be included in an initial review and consideration for interview; however, the position will remain open until filled.

To be considered for an interview, applicants must complete an online application including the following attachments (failure to include required attachments may result in disqualification):

• Cover Letter
• Resume
• Valid Credentials, Certifications and Licensing

Applicants seeking Veterans’ Preference as a qualified veteran or disabled veteran must attach appropriate documentation to their application. For more information .

The City…