"Alerted.org

Utility Engineering Manager (2025 Salary)

Print (https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/laceywa/jobs/newprint/5195115)

Apply



Utility Engineering Manager (2025 Salary)

Salary

$10,413.07 - $13,329.59 Monthly

Location

Lacey, WA

Job Type

Full Time

Job Number

2026-00067

Department

Public Works

Division

Water Resources

Opening Date

01/12/2026

Closing Date

1/26/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

+ Description

+ Benefits

+ Questions

BASIC PURPOSE

Reporting to the Water Resources Manager, under limited supervision, the Utility Engineering Manager is responsible for design and project management of Public Works utilities capital improvement projects (e.g. potable water, reclaimed water, and wastewater). This position is responsible for duties which include, but are not limited to, reviewing and performing advanced level professional engineering assignments such as work surrounding utility capital projects; supervising and coaching section staff; managing the Work-in-Progress (WIP) Board process, and development and delivery of public works utility projects; and serving as a liaison to the Engineering and Operations Divisions.

May act as the Water Resources Manager in their absence.

Please note: The Hiring Manager reserves the right to make changes to this posting at any time.

First round interviews are tentatively scheduled for February 3, 2026.

*This recruitment may be used to fill other positions of the same job classification. Once all the position(s) from the recruitment announcement are filled, the recruitment may only be used to fill additional open positions for the next six (6) months.*

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

These duties include but are not limited to the following:

Leadership, Development and Coaching

+ Manages the effective use of Water Resources utility engineering and project management staff resources to improve organizational productivity and customer service.

+ Supervises, coaches, trains and mentors section staff regarding water, reclaimed water, and wastewater utility work. Schedules, assigns and monitors workloads to ensure timely completion of projects, and approves monthly timesheets.

+ Assigns duties and responsibilities, hires, trains, coaches, motivates, directs, evaluates performance, and confronts and resolves performance problems, including performance counseling, handling grievances, discipline, and recommendations to terminate when appropriate.

+ Facilitates problem solving in the division and encourages a high degree of communication within the section and with other sections, divisions, and departments affected or impacted by section work.

+ Leads by example, maintaining high standards of behavior and performance. Assists with the development of goals, priorities and work programs for the section.

+ Takes initiative in recommending changes in work methods, policies, and procedures to improve levels of service delivery and improve overall operating efficiencies.

Utility Projects Oversight

+ Oversees the management of all utility capital projects such as conducting engineering studies and designs on existing and new pump stations, potable water supply wells, storage reservoirs, and stormwater facilities.

+ Leads Work-in-Progress (WIP) and monthly stakeholder meetings.

+ Coordinates and assists in selecting and managing engineering consulting firm(s).

+ Responsible for the quality, accuracy, and timely completion of utility capital projects, and for the performance of division project managers and engineers and engineering consulting teams.

+ Updates Water Resource Manager and others on capital projects and reports critical project components.

+ Updates the Public Works Director and Water Resource Manager on the overall cost and schedule of utility projects committed to annually when pulled from multi-year Utility Comprehensive Plans and multi-year Utility Rate Studies.

+ Coordinates with Engineering and Operations supervisors and staff, as well as the Public Affairs' staff, to provide construction and project informational releases, and other public informational displays and media relating to engineering practice and policy. Assists the public by responding to citizen inquiries regarding project related matters.

+ Facilitates effective and timely communication between Water Resources, Engineering and Operations staff on utility projects. Evaluates and provides recommendations on the utility portions of projects from other departments to the Water Resource Manager.

+ May occasionally serve as the Project Manager/Engineer on assigned Public Works utility projects, primarily projects where the engineering design work is contracted out, where higher level communications will benefit the project, and where Council and community interest are high. Determines the appropriate design and methodology for completion of projects.

+ Responds to public requests for assistance on issues relating to water utility services which require engineering analysis and/or administrative action. Contacts property owners to collect data, solicit support, or inform residents in regards to assigned projects.

+ Creates and oversees implementation of plans that will help the organization meet goals required for estimated service delivery requirements.

Utility Operations Oversight

+ Coordinates as a key team member with Engineering and Operation supervisors and staff to monitor and analyze the utility systems for deficiencies and makes recommendations for improvements in design and operation.

+ Uses computer to review SCADA (Supervisory and Control Data) and analyze facilities information to optimize system operations and meet regulatory requirements.

+ Provides leadership, oversight, and analysis to determine appropriate facilities settings and coordinates with project managers on facilities startup for utility projects.

+ Conducts plan review and inspection of utility construction projects (private and public) for conformance to all guidelines and specifications, including national pollutant discharge elimination system (NPDES) permits.

+ Assesses and makes determinations on the adequacy of fire flow for new and redevelopment projects as well as the effects of utility capital projects (e.g. transmission mains) on fire flows.

+ May develop plans, specifications, and estimates and perform system modeling for municipal infrastructure projects, with a focus on water, wastewater, and reclaimed water projects. The position may also work on transportation related projects, facilities, park improvements, and other miscellaneous projects related to utilities.

Budget Management:

+ Ensures projects stay within budget and on schedule and are designed, administered, and constructed to Federal, State, and City standards and requirements.

+ Coordinates with the Utility Capital Program Manager on the development of funding packages for Public Works projects.

+ Assists with preparation of the division budget with the objective of achieving and/or maintaining a cost-effective level of operations for public services.

+ Oversees staff contributions to the yearly utility capital improvement budget proposal including identifying internal and external stakeholder needs and determining projects to be pulled for work, providing project documentation (e.g. budget spreadsheets, WIP Board) and determining staffing resources and budget estimates.

+ Directs budget meetings with stakeholders to identify projects, project scope, and prioritization.

Other duties as assigned:

+ Prepares reports and presentations pertaining to assigned projects. Makes presentations to City officials, community groups, contractors, and citizens.

+ May perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

A Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or equivalent AND six (6) years of progressively responsible professional engineering and public administrative experience in public works construction improvement projects and water and wastewater delivery systems. Must have a minimum of three (3) years of lead or supervisory experience which may have been obtained concurrent.

OR

A Master’s degree in Civil Engineering or equivalent AND four (4) years of progressively responsible professional engineering and public administrative experience in public works construction improvement projects and water and wastewater delivery systems. Must have a minimum of three (3) years of lead or supervisory experience which may have been obtained concurrent.

*May have a combination of experience, education, and training that would substitute for the above requirements.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

+ Water Distribution Manager Certification III or IV Certification.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

+ Registration as a Professional Engineer in the State of Washington or equivalent license in another state and the ability to obtain a Washington State Professional Engineer license within six (6) months of hire.

+ Must pass a thorough background investigation and successfully complete pre-employment medical testing for the ability to perform the essential functions of the position.

+ Must maintain a level of physical and mental fitness necessary to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without a reasonable accommodation.

+ Must be attentive to job safety considerations and follows all required safety policies, procedures and techniques.

+ Must possess a valid Washington State driver’s license at time of hire OR must obtain within 30 days from date of hire, and must have a driving record acceptable to the City and the City’s insurance carrier.

+ Verification of identity and United States work authorization must be complete as required by the Immigration and Reform and Control Act.

+ Emergency Management (NIMS/FEMA) certifications must be obtained within one (1) year of employment.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Knowledge of:

+ Principles and techniques of management and supervision including: work plan design, scheduling, supervision, training, coaching, employee relations, performance evaluation, and employee development.

+ Supervising in a unionized environment.

+ Extensive knowledge related to the administration of Public Works systems, civil engineering design, construction principles and practices, and City utilities. Knowledge of methods, practices, and techniques of the maintenance, repair, and operation of water, wastewater, and stormwater systems.

+ Advanced administrative principles, practices, including goal setting, program development, implementation, and evaluation, project management, and supervision of staff, either directly or in a project team.

+ Extensive knowledge of public administration principles, practices, methods, procedures, and techniques. Knowledge of effective management, supervisory, organizational principles and practices and the ability to incorporate those into leadership behaviors.

+ Working knowledge of computers and their applications as they pertain to this position.

Skill in:

+ Presenting on complex topics to large and diverse audiences.

+ Managing the diverse work activities of division in a manner conducive to proficient performance, high morale, and division effectiveness.

+ Demonstrating the expected standards of behavior and performance for employees.

+ English language usage, spelling, grammar and punctuation.

+ The principles of business letter writing.

+ Demonstrated experience with the principles and practices of employee supervision, including work planning, assignment, review and evaluation, and the training of staff in work procedures.

+ Resolving complex problems and mediating or facilitating cooperation among conflicting parties.

Ability to:

+ Communicate complex ideas to a variety of audiences in a clear, comprehensive, effective, and professional manner; both orally and in writing.

+ Effectively troubleshoot and resolve issues related to project planning, coordination, timeliness and delivery of construction projects, and utility management.

+ Effectively supervise staff and direct successful completion of utility projects.

+ Effectively present complicated information, project plans and budgeting in a clear, straightforward manner.

+ Independently analyze a variety of administrative, environmental, and civic problems as they relate to assigned projects and to make sound recommendations as to their solution. Considers advantages and disadvantages of proposals and offers statistical data, supportable documentation, and/or engineering or financial analysis to support recommendations.

+ Accurately prepare and/or direct the preparation of project budgets, supporting analysis, and reports and develops a recommendation as to an appropriate course of action.

+ Perceive when non-routine activities are required and offers to help without needing to be asked.

+ Make efforts to modify workload to assist with emergent problems, assignments, or projects whenever feasible.

+ Effectively manage and coordinate assigned design projects and effectively manage project staff.

+ Provide professional and progressive expertise and coaching to assisting staff.

+ Work independently and make appropriate decisions regarding work methods and assignments.

+ Work from written and/or oral instructions and the ability to interpret engineering plans, surveys notes, and legal descriptions.

+ Manage and prioritize multiple projects, completing assigned work quickly and accurately under stress when it is necessary to comply with a deadline.

+ Ensure clear and concise preparation of written contract specifications.

The City of Lacey understands the importance of benefits and offers a competitive and full benefits package for all regular full-time employees.

Generally, represented employees may receive some, or all, of the benefits listed below, based on their union contracts. Those employees should consult their union agreements for specific information about their benefits, which can be found on the City web page here (http://www.ci.lacey.wa.us/city-government/city-departments/human-resources/union-contracts-and-policies) .

Medical Insurance Benefits:

+ Medical - Choice of Regence BlueShield (PPO) or Kaiser Permanente (HMO) plans offered through the Association of Washington Cities (AWC) Trust.

The employer pays 100% of employee's monthly premiums and 90% of qualified dependent/domestic partner's premiums.

+ Vision - VSP with low co-pays

+ Dental – Choice of Willamette or Delta Dental plans and orthodontia coverage.

+ Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – Program that provides resources to employees, their immediate family (including dependent children) and anyone living in the employee’s household. The EAP can provide help with matters such as stress/anxiety, parenting, grief, workplace issues, legal services, financial services, and more.

Life Insurance & Long Term Disability & Accidental Death and Dismemberment

+ Employer paid life insurance plan

+ Employer paid long term disability plan

+ Employer paid accidental death and dismemberment plan

Leave Benefits:

+ Vacation (which increases with years of service)

+ 96 Hours Vacation on Accrual Basis for Non-Represented Non-Supervisory Employees, LPOG Represented Employees

+ 128 Hours Vacation on Accrual Basis After Second Year of Employment for LPMA Represented Employees & LPSMA Represented Employees

+ 135 Hours Vacation on Accrual Basis for Non-Represented Supervisor or Management Employees

+ 11 Paid Holidays

+ Floating Holidays

+ 2 Floating Holidays for Non-Represented Employees & LPSMA Represented Employees

+ 1 Floating Holiday for LPOG & LPMA Represented Employees

+ 8 Hours Sick Leave on Accrual Basis Per Month

+ Jury Duty/Military Leave

+ Bereavement Leave

*All benefits and accruals outlined in collective bargaining agreements can be found here: Policies, Union Contracts, Pay & Benefits - City of Lacey (https://cityoflacey.org/union-contracts-policies-pay/)

Investment and Retirement Programs:

+ State retirement pension plan – Includes employer paid contributions to the State of Washington State Department of Retirement Systems (DRS)

+ 457 Deferred Compensation (voluntary)- two options MissionSquare and DRS

+ Social Security benefit (for Public Employee Retirement Systems (PERS) covered staff) – Our Employee Benefits include employer paid contributions to Social Security and Employees pay the employee portion of Social Security tax.

+ HRA/VEBA plan- A designated monthly amount (a City and/or employee contribution) is paid into a Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA) VEBA account. An HRA is a type of health plan savings account for your family’s medical care expenses and premiums, which can be accessed during employment with the City or saved and used at separation or retirement.

+ 1% Benefit - Employer provides a 1% contribution of your monthly salary pre-tax towards two options; 1) applied to insurance premium amount owed for dependent coverage or invested into a 457 deferred compensation account; OR a cash disbursement amount applied to your check monthly but the amount is taxed.

Voluntary Benefits:

+ Optional plans for additional life insurance, disability, and accident coverage

+ Flexible Spending Account (FSA) Plan - employees can contribute pre-tax contributions toward IRS allowed, qualifying medical and/or daycare expenses.

Wellness Program:

+ The City has a robust employee Wellness program that offers a variety of resources and activities for employee well-being.

Flexible Working Arrangements:

+ In recognition of Commute Trip reduction efforts, the City of Lacey provides flexible and alternative work schedules for many of our workforce positions.

+ City Hall is within minutes driving from I-5 Exit 108, and within walking/biking distance from Park and Ride Transit Martin Way Location and the Chehalis Western Trail.

Tuition Reimbursement:

+ The City promotes a learning environment and encourages opportunities for employees to continue to grow in their positions and careers. The City offers tuition reimbursement (as outline in City Personnel Policies) for eligible employees.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF):

+ Employees are also eligible to apply to The Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. This program is a United States government program that was created under the College Cost Reduction and Access Act of 2007 to provide indebted professionals a way out of their federal student loan debt burden by working full-time in public service.

*Note: Regular part-time employees may be eligible for pro-rated benefits (medical/dental/vision) depending on the hours of work assigned to the position. Their spouses and dependents are not eligible for health insurance coverage.