Project Engineer, Environmental Engineer

Project Engineer – Water Resources Department

Salary Grade SG 411
• Recruitment Range Starting at: $81,445.00

* Salary offered will be determined based on directly related experience

* Work Location:

653 Veterans Pkwy., Clayton, NC (Johnston County)

The Town of Clayton is seeking applicants for a Project Engineer for the Water Resources Department
. The Town of Clayton employs more than 340 full‑time staff in areas including police, fire, and electric utilities. The Town also offers a range of part‑time positions in Parks & Rec, Library, and Cultural Arts.

The Town of Clayton is the fastest growing town in Johnston County, which is the fastest growing county in the State of North Carolina. The vision for the Town of Clayton includes a thriving town where growth contributes to the quality of life enjoyed by long‑time residents and newcomers alike; easy access but with an atmosphere that feels smaller than it is;

a system of parks and greenways that connect people and places; neighborhoods with a variety of quality living options; a town that offers opportunities for people to live, create, shop and eat; a bustling and historic downtown, and businesses that are successful, growing, and investing in the community.

• Provides engineering design, analysis, and oversight for capital improvement programs, ensuring compliance with industry standards, regulatory requirements, and municipal policies.
• Performs detailed engineering calculations, hydraulic modeling, and data analysis to support infrastructure planning and project development.
• Conducts long‑range planning for municipal infrastructure, assessing system capacity, condition, and future needs to inform capital improvement planning and funding priorities; oversees project management, including scope development, scheduling, budgeting, and quality control for Town projects.
• Prepares and reviews engineering reports, feasibility studies, technical specifications, and construction documents for municipal projects; assists the Director in evaluating cost estimates, resource allocation, and technical feasibility for various projects; coordinates with internal departments and external agencies to ensure seamless project execution and regulatory compliance.
• Manages consultant contracts, reviews design plans and specifications, and provides technical recommendations to optimize project outcomes.
• Conducts site inspections and field investigations to assess project progress, compliance with specifications, and adherence to engineering standards; negotiates easement agreements and right‑of‑way acquisitions with property owners to facilitate project implementation; provides technical guidance, mentorship, and decision‑making support to capital project staff and municipal leadership.
• Assists the Finance Department in ensuring federally funded projects meet compliance requirements and prepares reimbursement requests for grant funding.
• Presents engineering recommendations, project updates, and budget requests to Town Council and other governing bodies.
• Identifies and implements innovative solutions to improve the efficiency, sustainability, and resilience of Town infrastructure.
• Supports enforcement of municipal policies, safety regulations, and engineering best practices.
• Performs other duties as assigned to support the Town’s infrastructure development and strategic goals.

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, or a related field.
• Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in the State of North Carolina, or ability to obtain licensure within six (6) months of hire.
• Experience with project management, contract administration, and engineering design principles.
• Strong analytical skills, problem‑solving abilities, and the ability to interpret engineering plans and specifications.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present technical information to non‑technical audiences.
• Valid North Carolina driver’s license or ability to obtain one.

• Master’s degree in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Experience in long‑range infrastructure…