Associate Civil Engineer

Salary : $119,308.80 - $145,017.60 Annually
Location : Murrieta City Hall, CA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 2026-21
Department: Public Works/Engineering
Opening Date: 06/24/2026
Closing Date: 7/15/2026 12:00 AM Pacific
FLSA: Exempt
Bargaining Unit: MSA


Description and Essential Functions
Connected By Amazing Employees
The City of Murrieta is accepting applications for the position of Associate Civil Engineer to fill two (2) current vacancies in our Engineering Department . The eligibility list established may be used to fill upcoming vacancies within this classification for up to one (1) year.
POSITION
This position requires the candidate to be able to perform a diverse range of professional engineering duties for the various engineering disciplines: land development, capital improvements, and public works. The primary focus shall be related to plan checking land development construction documents for permit issuance. Candidates with strong hydrology and hydraulics and transportation backgrounds are desired. The ideal candidate will be organized, independent, possess goodtimemanagement,andhavegood writing and communicationskillsinworkingwithinternalstaffandexternalagencies. Must be proficient in the research of applicable state and local codes to ensure project design compliance.
DESCRIPTION
Under direction performs a diverse range of professional engineering duties in support of an assigned program area which may include, but is not limited to capital improvement projects, development services, and public works infrastructure; prepares and/or participates in the preparation and review of preliminary and final engineering plans, cost estimates, cost analysis studies, specifications and schedules; oversees and coordinates the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) activities; provides technical support to management in assigned engineering program area; and performs related work as required.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Receives direction from assigned supervisory or management personnel. Exercises no direct supervision over staff.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS
This journey level classification is responsible for providing professional support in an assigned engineering program area, working independently and exercising judgment. Positions at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Management reserves the right to add, modify, or remove job duties as necessary and will make reasonable accommodations consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) to enable qualified individuals to perform the position's essential functions. The omission of a specific duty does not preclude it from being assigned if it is similar, related, or logically aligned with the role's overall responsibilities

• Performs a diverse range of professional engineering duties in an assigned program area which may include, but is not limited to, capital improvement projects, development services, and public works infrastructure
• Prepares and/or participates in the preparation and review of preliminary and final engineering plans, cost estimates, cost analysis studies, specifications and schedules for public works projects; plans include, but are not limited to, demolition, grading, street improvement, storm drains, traffic control, erosion control and irrigation
• Prepares and administers contracts for engineering services; determines scope of projects; prepares requests for proposals; conducts pre-bid and pre-construction conferences; provides input into the selection process; and directs the work of contracted service providers
• Serves as project manager on assigned projects; analyzes and resolves design and engineering issues; settles disputes and issues with inspectors, engineers and contractors; conducts negotiations for change orders; prepares contract modifications for change orders; coordinates relocation/adjustments of existing utilities for projects
• Performs a variety of engineering calculations on assigned projects
• Oversees inspections of civil infrastructure such as roads, water and sewer and storm drains, subdivisions and grading; may direct and coordinate the work of inspection personnel
• Oversees and coordinates the NPDES activities and operations including but not limited to, preparation of the Water Quality Improvement Plan (WQIP), implementing the Jurisdictional Runoff Management Plan (JRMP), performing semiannual outfall screenings, and completing the Transitional Monitoring and Assessment Program Annual Report
• Attends weekly and monthly WQIP meetings; provides input and reviews submittals to the Regional Board; identifies and recommends City strategies to achieve WQIP goals; develops and coordinates programs to implement identified strategies for new permit cycle
• Maintains, coordinates and enforces JRMP's Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination program which includes maintaining the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) for existing residential, construction, commercial and industrial inventory database; completes residential, commercial and industrial inspections, and prepares the JRMP Annual Report
• Reviews subdivision and improvement plans, parcel maps, road and grading plans, and related maps and specifications for accuracy and conformance to established engineering practices and mandated regulations; approves legal descriptions and plats
• Reviews and conditions development applications; responds to enquiries and meets with applicants and consultants with respect to entitlement and design issues; coordinates application review and conditioning with other departments such as traffic engineering; participates in design review committee meetings with other departments to identify, consider and resolve issues
• Conducts a plan check on Preliminary Water Quality Management Plans; meets with applicants and engineers to discuss water quality solutions
• Participates in Planning Commission and Director Hearings; responds to questions from the Commissioners and public speakers as they relate to engineering issues and conditions
• Meets with contractors, engineers, developers, architects, a variety of outside agencies, and the general public in acquiring information and coordinating engineering matters; provides information regarding City development requirements
• Provides information to the public and resolves questions and complaints regarding the interpretation and application of relevant codes, rules and regulations relating to traffic and construction
• Observes and complies with City and mandated safety rules, regulations, and protocols
• Performs other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Any combination of education, training, and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may be considered qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications includes:

• Equivalent to a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in civil engineering or a closely related field
• Three (3) years of progressively responsible professional experience in civil engineering

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS

• Possession of a valid certificate as a Professional Civil Engineer in the State of California
• Ability to travel to meetings, trainings, site visits, and special events throughout the City may be required. Employee must have access to reliable transportation as needed.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
Disaster Service Workers

In accordance with government code 3100, "Disaster Service Workers" (DSW) during emergencies. This law stipulates that public employees can be assigned to emergency activities to support the public's health, safety, and property during natural, man-made, or war-caused disasters.
Tier 1 - Basic Pre-Employment Requirements
Final candidates must successfully complete a basic pre-employment screening process, which includes a Department of Justice Live Scan (DOJ/LS) background check and a non-safety pre-employment physical examination to ensure the ability to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities / Physical Demands and Environmental Conditions
KNOWLEDGE OF

• Principles and practices of civil engineering as applied to the planning, design, cost estimating, construction, installation, and inspection of a wide variety of municipal facilities
• Methods, materials, and techniques used in the construction of public works projects, including water, storm water, street, and traffic systems design
• Methods and techniques of conducting comprehensive inspections on infrastructure projects
• Principles and practices of capital improvement program budgeting, cost estimation, funding, project management, and contract administration
• Principles and practices of checking engineering plan designs, and conditioning applications for compliance with permitting requirements
• Home building and entitlement processes
• Plan check processes which expedite the permit and construction timelines
• Water quality management plans and requirements
• Methods and techniques of preparing engineering calculations and cost estimates
• Applicable Federal, State, and local laws, regulatory codes, and procedures relevant to assigned area of responsibility
• Principles and practices of environmental impact assessment and related regulatory processes for assigned projects
• Contract management practices in a public agency setting
• Practices of researching engineering and design issues, evaluating alternatives, making sound recommendations, and preparing and presenting effective staff reports
• Principles of advanced mathematics and their application to engineering work
• General principles of risk management related to engineering project design and construction
• Recent and on-going developments, current literature, and sources of information related to the engineering, development and construction fields
• Record keeping principles and procedures
• City and mandated safety rules, regulations, and protocols
• Techniques for effectively representing the City in contacts with governmental agencies, community groups, and various business, professional, regulatory, and legislative organizations
• Modern equipment and communication tools used for business functions and program, project, and task coordination, including computers and software programs relevant to work performed
• The structure and content of the English language, including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar
• Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and City staff

ABILITY TO

• Perform a variety of professional engineering duties in support of the City's capital improvement and development programs
• Manage capital improvement projects from the planning through the construction phases including compliance with project specifications, quality, timeline and budget
• Oversee and coordinate the work of contracted service providers
• Prepare and/or review a diverse range of documents including engineering and construction plans, specifications, legal descriptions, and related materials
• Oversee and/or conduct comprehensive construction project inspections
• Review and condition a diverse range of development applications
• Prepare clear and concise reports, correspondence, technical specifications, and other written materials
• Analyze, interpret, summarize, and present administrative and technical information and data in an effective manner
• Understand, interpret, and apply all pertinent laws, codes, regulations, policies and procedures, and standards relevant to work performed
• Conduct complex research projects, evaluate alternatives, make sound recommendations, and prepare effective technical staff reports
• Effectively represent the department and the City in meetings with governmental agencies, community groups, and various businesses, professional, and regulatory organizations and in meetings with individuals
• Establish and maintain a variety of filing, record keeping, and tracking systems
• Effectively use computer systems, software applications relevant to work performed, and modern business equipment to perform a variety of work tasks
• Independently organize work, set priorities, meet critical deadlines, and follow-up on assignments
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, using appropriate English grammar and syntax
• Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy, procedural, and legal guidelines
• Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
When working within an office environment, must possess mobility to work in a standard office setting and use standard office equipment, including a computer; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; and hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone; ability to stand and walk between work areas may be required. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator and to operate standard office equipment. Positions in this classification occasionally bend, stoop, kneel, reach, push, and pull drawers open and closed to retrieve and file information.

When working in the field environment, must possess mobility to work in changing site conditions; possess the strength, stamina, and mobility to perform light to medium physical work; to sit, stand, and walk on level, uneven, or slippery surfaces; to reach, twist, turn, kneel, and bend, to climb and descend ladders; and to operate a motor vehicle and visit various sites; vision to inspect site conditions and work in progress. The job involves fieldwork requiring frequent walking in operational areas to identify problems or hazards, with exposure to hazardous materials in some site locations. Employees must possess the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects averaging a weight of 40 pounds.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
Employees work primarily in an office environment with moderate noise levels and controlled temperature conditions, and periodically work in a field environment where they are exposed to loud noise levels, cold and hot temperatures, inclement weather conditions, road hazards, vibration, confining workspace, chemicals, mechanical and/or electrical hazards, and hazardous physical substances and fumes. Employees may interact with upset staff and/or public and private representatives and contractors in interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures.

Supplemental Information
APPLICATION PROCEDURE
A City application form and resume must be submitted online. Applicants can apply online at


SELECTION PROCESS

Candidates must clearly demonstrate through their application materials that they meet the employment standards outlined above. All properly completed applications will be reviewed, and the most qualified candidates will be invited to continue in the selection process.


The examination process may include a combination of appraisal interviews, performance tests, and writing exercises designed to evaluate the candidates' skills, training, and experience.
Successful candidates will be placed on an eligibility list. The City reserves the right to merge eligibility lists as needed. Final selection is contingent upon successful completion of all required pre-employment requirements

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
The City of Murrieta is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment. All employment practices such as recruitment, selection, and promotions are administered in a manner designed to ensure that employees and applicants for employment are not subjected to discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age (over 40), marital or veteran status, genetic information, gender identity, gender expression, medical condition, disability, or any other basis that is inconsistent with federal, state or local laws.

THE COMMUNITY

Located just north of San Diego County, the City of Murrieta is home to approximately 120,000 people. Central to all of Southern California, residents of Murrieta live in one of the safest cities in the U.S. With top-ranked schools, 53 parks, and 1,300 acres of parks, trails, and open space, it is consistently ranked the top place to live in SW Riverside County. With a dynamic business environment, one of the lowest unemployment rates in the state, and a high median income. Murrieta offers its residents an exceptional quality of life in an engaged and connected community.
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Organization: Murrieta Supervisors Association

Adopted: 6/2018
THE CITY OF MURRIETA ORGANIZATIONAL VALUES

Integrity

We are ethical, honest, and fair in all we do.

Public Service

We deliver responsive and caring service to our community, customers, colleagues, and region.


Professionalism

We exemplify professionalism through our knowledge, accountability, initiative, and dedication.

Teamwork

We thrive in a positive work environment noted for collaboration, support, diversity, and balance.


Leadership

We demonstrate leadership, guide stewardship of resources, and cultivate a vision for the future.
MURRIETA SUPERVISORS ASSOCIATION

The following is a summary of the provided benefits to full-time employees in the represented unit. For further information, please refer to the unit's or

• RETIREMENT: The City participates in the California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS).
  • Tier 1 (Classic Members hired prior to 12/30/2012)
    • Formula: 2.7% at 55
    • Member Contribution: 8.0% of compensation
    • Final Compensation: Highest twelve (12) consecutive month period
  • Tier 2 (Classic Members hired on or after 12/30/2012)
    • Formula: 2.0% at 60
    • Member Contribution: 7.0% of compensation
    • Final Compensation: Highest thirty-six (36) consecutive month period
  • Tier 3 (New Members / PEPRA)
    • Formula: 2.0% at 62
    • Member Contribution: 50% of normal cost (currently 8.0% of compensation)
    • Final Compensation: Highest thirty-six (36) consecutive month period
• MEDICAL INSURANCE: The City contributes up to $1,936.28 per month toward medical insurance for employees and their eligible dependents.
• RETIREE MEDICAL INSURANCE: Please refer to the unit's Memorandum of Understanding for details.
• DENTAL INSURANCE: The City pays 100% of the premium for the employee and their eligible dependents.
• VISION INSURANCE: The City pays 100% of the premium for the employee and their eligible dependents.
• LIFE INSURANCE: The City pays for 100% of the premium for a life insurance policy equal to one time an employee's base salary, up to a maximum of $150,000. Additional life insurance is available.
• SHORT-TERM DISABILITY INSURANCE: The City pays 100% of the premium for the employee.
• LONG-TERM DISABILITY INSURANCE: The City pays 100% of the premium for the employee.
• DEFERRED COMPENSATION: Employees are eligible to participate in a deferred compensation plan through Nationwide Retirement Solutions. The City contributes a matching amount to the employee's account on a dollar-for-dollar basis, not to exceed $2,200 per year.
• SPANISH LANGUAGE PAY: 2.5% of base pay for eligible members of the association who are fluent in Spanish. Eligibility is based on business necessity.

Note: The provisions of this summary do not constitute an expressed or implied contract. Any provision contained in this summary may be modified or revoked without notice. The types and levels of employee benefits provided, including City contributions toward benefit costs, are subject to change as a result of periodic contract negotiations between the recognized employee association and the City of Murrieta.
01


The information provided in your application must support your selected answers in the supplemental questions. The information you provide will be verified and documentation may be required. Please be as honest and accurate as possible. You may be asked to demonstrate your knowledge and skills in a work sample or during an interview.By completing this supplemental questionnaire, you are attesting that the information you have provided is accurate. Any misstatements, omissions, or falsification of information may eliminate you from consideration or result in dismissal.Responses such as, "see resume" or "see application" will result in rejection of your application.Proof of education is required.

• Yes, I understand and agree
• No, I do not agree

02


What is the highest level of education you have completed?

• Less than a High School diploma or equivalent.
• High School Diploma or Equivalent (GED)
• Some college
• Associate's Degree
• Bachelor's Degree
• Master's Degree
• Doctorate Degree

03


Do you possess a bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited college or university with major coursework in civil engineering, or a related field?

• Yes
• No

04


If you indicated you have a degree in the previous question, please specify your major below.Please attach proof of education.
05


Do you possess a valid certificate as a Professional Civil Engineer in the state of California. Proof must be attached to this application.

• Yes
• No

06


How many years of professional experience do you possess working in civil engineering?

• No experience
• Less than two (2) years
• More than two (2) years but less than three (3) years.
• More than three (3), but less than five (5) years
• More than five (5), but less than seven (7) years
• More than seven (7)years

07


How many years of municipal government experience do you possess within a Engineering or Development Services Department?

• No experience.
• Less than one year.
• More than one, but less than two years.
• More than two, but less than three years.
• More than three, but less than four years.
• More than four, but less than five years.
• More than five, but less than eight years.
• More than eight, but less than ten years.
• More than ten years.

08


In reference to the previous question, at which employer(s) did you receive this experience? Please include the following in your response:- Name of the employer- The dates of employment - The tasks you completedIf you selected "No experience" in the previous question, please indicate N/A.
Required Question