County of Orange

  • Civil Engineering Associate

  • Orange County, CA
  • Santa Ana, California United States View Map

Job Description

CAREER DESCRIPTION

CIVIL ENGINEERING ASSOCIATE

Salary may be negotiable within the range listed above, based on position requirements and successful candidate's qualifications, subject to appropriate authorization.

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
This recruitment will establish an open eligible list that will be used to fill current and future Civil Engineering Associatepositions. The eligible list established may also be used to fill positions in similar and/or lower classifications throughout the County of Orange.

DEADLINE TO APPLY
This recruitment will be open for a minimum of five (5) business days and will close on Thursday, September 17, 2026, at 11:59 P.M. (PT).
OC INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAMS/OC DEVELOPMENT SERVICES/OC PUBLIC WORKS
OC Infrastructure Programs provides engineering services for roadways in unincorporated areas and regional flood control programs throughout Orange County. This includes programming, design, legislation tracking, project management, traffic safety, and development coordination services.

OC Development Services oversees the planning and development entitlement requirements for private and public projects within the County’s unincorporated areas. This includes permit processing, inspection services and management of zoning, building and code regulations - all to ensure safe and responsible property development and community standards.

OC Public Works provides services on a regional basis to unincorporated areas, to cities, and to other County agencies and departments. The primary mission of the department is to protect and enrich the community through efficient delivery and maintenance of public works infrastructure, planning, and development services. OC Public Works' core values are integrity, accountability, service and trust.

OCPW is a unique County department comprised of ten (10) service areas: Administrative Services, Agricultural Commissioner/Sealer of Weights & Measures; OC Construction; OC Development Services; OC Environmental Resources; OC Facilities Design & Construction and CUF; OC Facilities Maintenance & OC Fleet Services; OC Infrastructure Programs; OC Operations & Maintenance.

Click here for more information on OC Public Works.
Click here for more information on the County of Orange.

THE OPPORTUNITY
OC Public Works is seeking an experienced, non-registered civil engineering professional to perform a variety of field and office civil engineering work as a Civil Engineering Associate. Positions at this level are responsible for journey-level assignments and perform independent engineering analysis and recommendations while generally working under the project leadership of Civil Engineers. Assignments may involve complex or specialized engineering projects across roadway, active transportation, flood control, hydrology, hydraulics, and infrastructure project development.

OC Infrastructure Programs is currently recruiting for four (4) Civil Engineering Associate positions. Assignments include two positions within the Project Development Unit, one position withing the Hydrology Unit, and one position within the Flood Design Unit.

OC Development Services is currently recruiting for one (1) Civil Engineering Associate position. Assignment will be withing the Building and Safety Unit.

Responsibilities and duties for this position include, but are not limited to, the following:
  • Developing and evaluating infrastructure projects
  • Performing and coordinating civil engineering analyses and studies
  • Developing project programming and delivery documents
  • Preparing, reviewing, and coordinating engineering plans, specifications, reports, studies, calculations, and other technical documents
  • Managing and coordinating projects and consultants
  • Conducting field investigations and site evaluations
  • Reviewing plans and engineering calculations for residential and nonresidential construction projects

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS AND CORE COMPETENCIES
Recent experience with using computer modeling software for urban planning and/or CADD (Computer Aided Drafting & Design) systems is highly desirable, but not required.

Candidates with experience in one or more of the following areas are encouraged to apply:
  • Project development and project management
  • Roadway, bridge, bikeway, or ADA design
  • Flood control and hydraulic engineering design
  • Hydrology and floodplain management
  • Drainage and stormwater engineering
In addition, the ideal candidate will also have extensive experience in the following core competencies:

Technical Expertise & Knowledge
  • Knowledge of the principles and practices of civil engineering
  • Working knowledge of County of Orange regulations, standards, and details
  • Preparing accurate engineering computations and performing moderate to complex mathematical calculations
  • Computer literate with demonstrated knowledge of MS-Office applications and with other engineering software programs such as AES (Advanced Engineering Software), WSPGW (Water Surface Pressure Gradient for Windows), HEC RAS, AutoCAD and Civil3D

Problem Solving & Analytical Skills
  • Experienced in identifying problems, solving them, acting decisively, and showing good judgment
  • Isolating causes from symptoms, and compiling information and alternatives to evaluate problems or issues
  • Involving others as appropriate and gathering information from a variety of sources
  • Finding a balance between studying the problem and solving it

Communication & Interpersonal Skills
  • Strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills
  • Ability to clearly and concisely convey technical and/or complex information to a diverse workgroup
  • Ability to draft and interpret technical reports and memos
  • Demonstrate a high degree of motivation and willingness to learn
  • Maintain a professional perspective and objective demeanor when varied situations occur
  • Review and handle complex projects involving several functional groups
  • Recognize and embrace the value of safety both in the field and in the office
  • Coordinate and communicate effectively with management, Orange County elected officials and representatives, external agencies, and with the public as necessary

LICENSE REQUIREMENTS
Possession of a valid California Driver's License, Class C or higher, is required by date of appointment.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Please click here for details on the Civil Engineering Associate classification, including the physical, mental, environmental and working conditions.

NOTE: Foreign degrees require an evaluation of U.S. equivalency by an agency that is a member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (N.A.C.E.S.).

RECRUITMENT PROCESS
Human Resource Services (HRS) will screen all application materials to identify qualified applicants. After screening, qualified applicants will be referred to the next step and notified of all further procedures applicable to their status in the competition.

Application Screening (Refer/Non-Refer)
Applications and supplemental responses will be screened for qualifications that are highly desirable and most needed to successfully perform the duties of this job. Only those applicants that meet the qualifications as listed in the job bulletin will be referred to the next step.

Online Assessment (Proctored, Weighted 100%)
Applicants who meet qualifications will be invited to participate in one or more job related assessments. Applicants will be notified of their test date and access code, if applicable. Only the most qualified candidates will advance to the next step in the recruitment process or will be placed on the eligible list.

Only the most qualified candidates will advance to the next step in the recruitment process or will be placed on the eligible list.

Eligible List
Once the assessment has been completed, HRS will establish an eligible list of candidates. Candidates placed on the eligible list may be referred to a selection interview to be considered for present and future vacancies.

Based on the County's needs, the selection procedures listed above may be modified. All candidates will be notified of any changes in the selection procedures.
Veterans Employment Preference
The County is committed to providing a mechanism to give preferential consideration in the employment process to veterans and their eligible spouses and will provide eligible participants the opportunity to receive interviews in the selection process for employment and paid internship openings. Please click here to review the policy.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION

The County of Orange is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. Individuals who require a reasonable accommodation during the application or selection process should notify the recruiter listed on the job posting as soon as possible. Documentation supporting the accommodation request may be required.

EMAIL NOTIFICATION
Email is the primary form of notification during the recruitment process. Please ensure your correct email address is included in our application and use only one email account.

NOTE: User accounts are established for one person only and should not be shared with another person. Multiple applications with multiple users may jeopardize your status in the recruitment process for any positions for which you apply. Candidates will be notified regarding their status as the recruitment proceeds via email through the GovernmentJobs.com site. Please check your email folders, including spam/junk folders, and/or accept emails ending with "governmentjobs.com" and "ocgov.com." If your email address should change, please update your profile at www.governmentjobs.com.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Click here for additional Frequently Asked Questions.

For specific information pertaining to this recruitment, contact Brian Quinlan at brian.quinlan@pw.oc.gov or 714-667-9750.

EEO INFORMATION

Orange County, as an equal employment opportunity employer, encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply.

Please note that Extra Help employees are not eligible for the benefits listed.



Please go to the following link to find out more about Defined Benefit Pensions and OCERS Plan Types/Benefits.
http://www.ocers.org/active-member-information

Closing Date/Time: 9/17/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
County of Orange

County of Orange

714.834.5315

Discover a Fulfilling Career at the County of Orange

With a population of over 3 million residents and 34 cities, Orange County is a thriving community known for its beautiful beaches, diverse culture, and strong economy. As the third-largest employer in the county, the County of Orange offers over 18,000 employees the opportunity to make a difference in their community and build a fulfilling career in public service.

As a County of Orange employee, you will have the chance to work in a variety of departments, each providing vital services to our community. From law enforcement and healthcare to public works and environmental protection, there is a wide range of career paths to explore. And with opportunities for advancement and professional growth, you can build a long and rewarding career with us.

As a top employer in the region, the County of Orange is committed to providing our employees with excellent benefits, including a competitive salary, flexible work schedules, and outstanding healthcare coverage. We also offer opportunities for career development and training, ensuring that our employees have the skills and knowledge they need to succeed.

Whether you're just starting your career or looking for a new challenge, the County of Orange is a great place to work. With a supportive and collaborative work environment, a commitment to excellence, and opportunities for growth and advancement, we invite you to join our team and make a difference in your community.

 

Community Impact:

Working for the County of Orange means you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in your community. Whether you're providing critical services to residents, protecting the environment, or maintaining public safety, your work will make a difference in the lives of those around you.

Employee Wellness:

At the County of Orange, we prioritize our employees' well-being. We offer telecommuting options, generous health benefits, and wellness programs to promote work-life balance. We believe that by taking care of our employee’s health and well-being, we can help them excel in their careers while still enjoying their personal lives and taking care of their families.

Innovation:

The County of Orange is committed to embracing new technologies and innovative approaches to service delivery. We encourage our employees to think creatively and find ways to improve our processes and systems. If you're someone who loves to problem-solve and think outside the box, you'll find a supportive and dynamic environment here.

Collaboration:

Collaboration is key to our success at the County of Orange. We value teamwork, communication, and mutual support, and we work together across departments and functions to achieve our goals. If you're someone who enjoys collaborating with others and building strong relationships, you'll find a welcoming and inclusive community here.

Equality:

At the County of Orange, we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and respected. Our Equity Policy reflects this commitment and guides our efforts to promote equity, diversity, and inclusion in everything we do.

Career Advancement:

The County of Orange is dedicated to helping our employees grow and advance in their careers. We offer a variety of training and development opportunities to help our employees reach their full potential. If you're looking for a place to build a long and fulfilling career, the County of Orange is an excellent choice.

 

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