Senior Technical Engineer

SUMMARY:

Responsible for planning, implementing, and supervising large and/or multiple projects requiring independent judgment in the evaluation, selection, and substantial adaptation and modification of engineering principles and practices.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following:

• Performs work that involves conventional engineering practice but may include a variety of complex features such as conflicting design requirements, unsuitability of conventional materials, and difficult coordination requirements.
• Prepares estimates and monitors complex and/or multiple project budgets and makes recommendations concerning budgetary status and/or adjustment.
• Develops new standards, improvement processes, and problem-solving techniques.
• Designs and conducts experiments and analyzes/interprets data.
• Interprets and conveys scientific literature as applicable to complex problems.
• Prepares and professionally seals detailed plans, specifications, and analytical models.
• Responsible for developing and delivering technical training to key personnel and partners.
• Mentors project teams members to increase team skills and capabilities.
• Serves as a subject matter expert and represents the River Authority in efforts resulting in the development of policy, regulation, or professional standards.
• Prepares and/or reviews project documents for conformity and quality assurance.
• Reviews, inspects, and/or coordinates construction contract document enforcement that includes shop drawings, preparation of field changes, change orders, and pay estimates.
• Demonstrates excellent teamwork and leadership skills with staff across all impacted disciplines.
• Ensures projects meet stakeholder requirements and necessary regulations/standards as necessary.
• Develops working relationships with key personnel to advance River Authority priorities.
• Coordinates with community partners to develop projects, programs, and initiatives based on shared and strategic interests.
• Works with and coordinates the work of consultants.
• Reviews, comments on, and develops department policy and equipment needs.
• Communicates the progress of the River Authority’s work and technical advances to large audiences.
• All other duties as assigned.

The absence of specific statements of duties does not exclude those tasks from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment of the position.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS :

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required to successfully perform the essential functions of this position.

SUPERVISORY REQUIREMENT:

This position may supervise employees.  

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:

An Undergraduate Degree from an ABET accredited college or university with emphasis in Engineering, or relevant discipline; registered as a Professional Engineer in the State of Texas; six (6) years of progressively responsible engineering experience as a professional engineer in all phases of engineering required; or a combination of experience and education that results in the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is required.

SPECIAL QUALIFICATIONS:

Thorough knowledge of engineering principles and practices as applied to planning, design, construction, and maintenance of various facilities; project management experience or certification as a Project Management Professional required; ability to plan, direct, and accomplish complex design, modeling, and construction projects concurrently; and computer proficiency in the current Microsoft Office package is required. Specialized knowledge in analytical modeling relating to watershed management (including but not limited to predictive flood modeling, hydrologic and hydraulic modeling, water quality modeling, and ecological modeling) is preferred. Knowledge of legal and policy issues pertaining to watershed management, dam safety, water quality, floodplains, wetlands, or water resources is preferred.

Must have and maintain a valid driver’s license and an insurable driving record. 

LANGUAGE AND REASONING SKILLS:

Ability to provide excellent customer service; ability to understand written or oral instructions; read, analyze, and interpret documents, instruction manuals, policies, and procedures is essential.  Strong interpersonal skills are essential to maintain effective working relationships with elected officials, agency representatives, civic groups, employees, and members of the public. Must have experience in successfully directing, coordinating, and supervising the accomplishment of tasks by others. Must have excellent technical writing and report preparation skills. The ability to work effectively and efficiently, under sometimes stressful conditions, to ensure deadlines are met is essential. 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

Work is largely sedentary; must be able to sit and stand for extended periods of time and intermittently walk, climb, balance, bend, crouch, and reach while performing office duties.  Regularly and safely lifts, carries, and handles supplies and equipment weighing at least 20 pounds. Occasionally lifts and carries up to 30 pounds approximately 15 feet. May perform simple grasping and fine manipulation. Must be able to maintain effective audio-visual discrimination and perception needed for making observations, communicating with others, reading, writing, and operating office/field equipment.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

Work is typically performed in a well-lit and adequately heated and ventilated office environment and requires observance of safe work practices, fire regulations, and avoidance of falls, trips, and similar office work hazards. Occasionally, work is performed outdoors when visiting work sites and projects. 

The stress level for this position is moderate and the workload often requires this position to work non-traditional hours to ensure deadlines are met in a timely manner.  Must be able to perform in a small but highly professional team-oriented environment.

Must be able to function in a principle-based organization that has a culture built on character and SARA Core Values of Stewardship, Integrity, and Excellence.