Engineering Specialist III - Public Works, Engineering​/Utility Design

Howard County:

Conveniently located in the heart of central Maryland between Baltimore and Washington, Howard County offers the charm of a historic past mixed with the excitement of a cosmopolitan community.

Howard County Government:

Howard County Government is a leader in innovation, sustainability, and consistently ranked as one of the best places to live and work in the country. In 2025, Howard County Government received a record-breaking 83 Achievement Awards from the National Association of Counties (NACo) - the highest number of annual NACo awards achieved in the history of the State of Maryland, and the highest number of awards out of any county in the State of Maryland which received a collective 136 awards.

NACo is the leading organization representing county-level government operations. These awards recognize innovative and transformative programs that provide new services for county residents, improve existing programs, upgrade working conditions, and enhance citizen participation and public policy making.

What are we looking for?

We are looking for outstanding individuals to join our team and contribute to excellence in Howard County operations.

What you'll like most about working at Howard County Government:

* We are committed to workplace excellence in every area of County government.  

* We have a highly talented, diverse, and inclusive workplace. Your input will not only be heard, but it will be encouraged!  

* We offer competitive compensation and great benefits including medical, retirement, and wellness programs.

* As a member of the Howard County Government team, you'll be helping drive our culture and directly impact what makes us an amazing place to work.

POSITION SUMMARY:

Advanced professional engineering work at the full performance level involving overseeing and directing the activities of County or consultant engineers, surveyors, inspectors, contractors and/or other professionals in the course of implementing the water and sewer capital improvement programs.

STARTING SALARY HIRING RANGE:

$45.68 - $51.52

$95,019 - $107,162

CLASS

DESCRIPTION:

Performs advanced professional level engineering and/or architectural work, which may include supervisory responsibility, with considerable independence but under general supervision from an administrative or technical superior.  Work includes reviewing complex engineering and/or architectural plans, resolving difficult design analysis, acting as project manager for large scale projects, and preparing planning and engineering documents.  Work at this level is distinguished by unique engineering analysis and expertise in areas such as mechanical, electrical or structural engineering;

in depth architectural experience in the development, design and construction of institutional building types such as libraries, community centers, police and fire stations, etc.

* This is a Classified position, meaning that it is a part of the Howard County Classified Service upon completion of a probationary period of at least six (6) months
* PROJECT AND PROGRAM MANAGEMENT:

* Acts as project engineer/project manager for complex water and sewer capital projects requiring process and mechanical engineering skills and experience, including projects involving actuating water valve vaults, water and wastewater pumping stations, water storage facilities, and wastewater treatment facilities.

* Acts as program manager for portfolios of related water/wastewater facility infrastructure projects and for the development and implementation of asset management for assigned programs.

* Coordinates multiple projects, schedules and monitors contracts to ensure successful completion and closeout.

Participates in internal review board meetings and may direct such meetings in supervisor's absence.

Represents the department at public hearings, meetings, and conferences as assigned.

TECHNICAL ENGINEERING DUTIES:

* Performs engineering studies and analyses to ensure that water and sewer system facilities and appurtenances are properly sized, constructed, operated, and maintained.

* Assures that new facilities and equipment meet operational requirements and specifications.

* Reviews preliminary and final plans, drawings, and specifications for new facilities for operational integrity and maintainability.

* Carries out special engineering projects and submits recommendations for alternatives and solutions.

BUDGETING, SCHEDULING, AND FISCAL OVERSIGHT:

* Responsible for project budgets and schedules, including work plan development, consultant selection, negotiations for scope of services, man-hour projections, and contract preparation.

* Prepares and reviews budgets and cost estimates; monitors and manages fiscal status of design and construction contracts.

* Practices cost control to minimize total County project costs.

* Forecasts future budgetary needs to support the Department's financial planning process.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Acts in the capacity of Chief, Utility Design Division with the authority and…