City of La Mesa, CA
Associate/Assistant Engineer
Salary
$88,545.60 - $133,473.60 Annually
Location
La Mesa City Hall, CA
Job Type
Regular Full-Time
Job Number
25-40
Department
Public Works Engineering
Opening Date
09/23/2025
Closing Date
10/8/2025 5:30 PM Pacific
Description
Benefits
Questions
Position Summary
Excellent Career Opportunity
City of La Mesa
ASSISTANT/ASSOCIATE ENGINEER
*ASSISTANT ENGINEER - $7,379 - $9,652 monthly
*ASSOCIATE ENGINEER - $8,503 - $11,123 monthly
The City of La Mesa is currently accepting applications for Assistant/Associate Engineer to fill one immediate vacancy in the Engineering Division of the City's Public Works Department.
The City of La Mesa is looking for a successful candidates to perform professional level engineering duties in support of the City's engineering services and activities including design and construction projects for City streets, storm drains, sewer lines, traffic and related capital improvement programs; to prepare construction plans and specifications for capital improvement projects; to perform field survey and construction oversight duties; to serve as project manager on assigned projects; and to ensure work quality and adherence to professional engineering standards.
Assistant Engineer - This is the entry level class within the Engineering classification series. This class is distinguished from the Associate Engineer by the performance of the more routine tasks and duties assigned to positions within the series. Work is usually supervised while in progress and fits a structured and established pattern. Generally, changes in procedures or exceptions are explained in detail as they arise. Typically, employees at this level would have completed a college degree in the civil engineering field but would have limited work experience.
Associate Engineer - This is the full journey level class within the professional Engineer classification series. Employees within this class are distinguished from the Assistant Engineer by the performance of the full range of duties as assigned including responsibility for coordinating more complex engineering design and construction projects from inception to completion. 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 polices of the work unit.
*NOTE: Vacant position may be filled as either an Associate Engineer or an Assistant Engineer depending on candidate qualifications and experience.
Key Responsibilities
The following duties are typical for this classification. Incumbents may not perform all of the listed duties and/or may be required to perform additional or different duties from those set forth below to address business needs and changing business practices.
Perform professional level engineering duties in support of the City's public works and community development engineering, operations and maintenance services. The activities include but are not limited to evaluation of infrastructure, asset management, engineering design and construction; oversight for the City infrastructures including streets, parks, storm drains, sewer lines, traffic, building maintenance and fleet.
Prepare designs and specifications for assigned projects; research project design requirements; develop engineering drawings, construction plans, specifications, contract documents, bid documents, calculations, cost estimates for proposed projects and schedules.
Maintain accurate records of projects, budgets or field observations required for the delivery of civil engineering services for the City.
Investigate field conditions related to public improvements, public utilities, and traffic safety operations; investigate field problems affecting property owners, contractors, and maintenance operations; work with public or private contractors on public improvements; prepare accurate reports, diagrams and recommendations related to the responsibilities of the Engineering Division.
Prepare feasibility and engineering reports for services or public improvement projects.
Participate in the plan check, review, and processing of plans for private developments affecting City streets, sewers, drains, and related public works and community development facilities; ensure that they meet all City standards and development conditions.
Perform survey, mapping, and data collection; evaluate data and prepare recommendations.
Assist in the operation, maintenance, and installation of traffic signs, signals, street lights, and pavement markings for City thoroughfares; administer the maintenance of assigned contracts; respond to maintenance requests from the public and City staff; ensure that invoices from contractors are in compliance with existing contract; establish policies and procedures for reporting maintenance for street lights and traffic signals and for updating pavement conditions.
Provide assistance to contractors, engineers, and the general public on engineering policies and procedures; review submitted plans, drawings and specifications for compliance with engineering and City codes and standards.
Participate in the preparation of requests for proposals and bids; review contract bids and proposals; participate in the selection of contracted services.
As assigned, serve as project engineer for engineering design and construction projects; administer project from inception to completion including design, plan review, public meetings, bidding and construction; develop scope of work; serve as liaison to City staff, developers, engineers, consultants, the general public and external agencies on proposed development projects; develop project timelines and set priorities; assign work tasks and oversee the services of consultant staff.
Review engineering design and construction plans, drawings, specifications, contract documents, cost estimates, engineering calculations and related documents prepared by consulting engineers and contractors for compliance with professional and City standards and practices; coordinate reviews with other departments and agencies.
Administer contracts for assigned engineering projects; conduct site inspections during and at completion of project; monitor construction progress and changes to scope of work; discuss and recommend change orders; review and process requests for contract and final payments; prepare project close-out documents.
Review water quality plans and reports; field oversight and implementation of water quality requirements and best management practices.
Serve as staff to a variety of City commissions, boards, and committees related to public works or community development engineering matters.
Coordinate engineering activities with other City departments, divisions and outside agencies.
Attend and participate in professional group meetings; stay abreast of new trends and innovations in the field of civil engineering design and construction management.
As assigned, supervise and train lower level professional and technical engineering staff.
Perform related duties as required.
For more information, see the job description(s) below:
Assistant Engineer (https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/lamesa/classspecs/746652?keywords=associate%20engineer&pagetype=classSpecifications)
Associate Engineer (https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/lamesa/classspecs/746652?keywords=associate%20engineer&pagetype=classSpecifications)
Minimum Qualifications
Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:
Education/Training:
Equivalent to a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in civil engineering or a related field.
Experience:
Assistant Engineer - At least two (2) years of para-professional engineering experience or internship with a public agency or civil engineering firm is desirable.
Associate Engineer - At least three (3) years of increasingly responsible professional engineering experience.
License or Certificate:
Possession of an appropriate, valid driver's license with a satisfactory driving record.
Assistant Engineer - Possession of an Engineer-In-Training Certificate is desirable.
Associate Engineer - Possession of a Certificate of Registration as a professional engineer in the State of California is preferred.
Examination Process
I nterested applicants must submit both an online application and a completed supplemental questionnaire by the closing date . A cover letter and resume is required. Unless specifically stated otherwise in this announcement, all requirements must be met at the time of application, and all required licenses and certificates must be current and valid. Candidates whose qualifications most closely meet the needs of the City will be invited to participate in the examination process for this position. The examination process may consist of any of the following components: practical skills assessment, writing assignment and appraisal interview.
*SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
Recruitment Closes - Wednesday, October 8, 2025, 5:30 P.M.
Initial Interview Panel: Week of October 27, 2025
*Please note, all dates and/or timeframes are subject to change.
NOTE:
Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a pre-employment background including a live scan fingerprint and reference check.
The City of La Mesa is an Equal Opportunity and ADA compliant employer. All qualified candidates and veterans are welcome to apply!
The City of La Mesa offers a comprehensive benefit package including vacation, holiday, and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, and life insurance. Click here (https://www.cityoflamesa.us/DocumentCenter/View/22734/General-Employees-Unit-July-2024-PDF) for a summary of Employee benefits.
For additional detailed information regarding salaries and benefits, please review the La Mesa City Employees Association MOU. (https://www.cityoflamesa.us/DocumentCenter/View/11348/La-Mesa-City-Employees-Association-MOU-PDF?bidId=)
01
Each applicant must complete this supplemental questionnaire as part of the application screening and selection process. The information you provide will be reviewed and used to determine your eligibility to continue in the selection process. Resumes in lieu of this questionnaire will not be accepted. Please be as descriptive as possible in your responses. Incomplete responses, false statements, omissions, or partial information may result in disqualification from the selection process. Do you agree to answer each supplemental question truthfully and that your responses can be verified from information included within the application?
Yes
No
02
What is your highest level of education?
High school, GED, or equivalent
Associate degree
Some College
Bachelor degree
Master's Degree
PhD
03
Please indicate the years of increasingly responsible professional engineering experience you have.
No Experience
Less than 1 year experience
1 to 2 years experience
3+ years of experience
04
Do you possess a valid California driver's license, or equivalent?
Yes
No
05
Do you possess a valid Certificate of Registration as a professional engineer in the State of California? If yes, please attach a copy to your application.
Yes
No
06
Do you possess a valid Engineer-In-Training Certificate? If yes, please attach a copy to your application.
Yes
No
07
Do you have at least two years of para-professional engineering experience or internship with a public agency or civil engineering firm?
Yes
No
08
Describe your experience and knowledge regarding the inspection of capital improvement projects. If you have no related experience in this area, please type "N/A".
09
Describe your experience and knowledge preparing design plans and specifications for capital improvement projects. If you have no related experience in this area, please type "N/A".
10
Describe your experience and knowledge in managing capital improvement projects. If no experience in this area, please type "N/A".
11
Describe your knowledge of computer applications, including CAD, spreadsheets, word processing, Access, and GIS for engineering projects.
12
Please describe your experience with infrastructure asset management. If you have no related experience in this area, please type "N/A."
13
This application requires a resume and cover letter. Did you attach a resume and cover letter?
Yes
No
14
APPLICANT'S ACKNOWLEDGMENT - NOTIFICATION VIA ELECTRONIC MAIL (E-MAIL): The City of La Mesa Human Resources Division uses e-mail to notify our applicants of important information relating to the status and processing of your application. Therefore, as an applicant, you are hereby advised of the following: 1. Ensure that the e-mail address and contact information you provide is current, secure, and readily accessible to you. Do not share e-mail addresses. Spam or other filters should be adjusted to accept our e-mails. We will not be responsible in any way if you do not receive our e-mail notifications, i.e., for the non-delivery of e-mail or if you fail to check your e-mail inbox on a timely basis, etc. 2. Carefully read any notices that we send in a timely manner. Follow further instructions, if any. We recommend that you print and keep a hard copy of our notices for your records. I acknowledge that I have read, understand, and agree to the above.
Yes
No
Required Question
Employer
City of La Mesa
Address
8130 Allison Avenue La Mesa, California, 91942
Phone
619-667-1175
Website
https://www.cityoflamesa.gov/
Apply
Please verify your email address Verify Email
Salary
$88,545.60 - $133,473.60 Annually
Location
La Mesa City Hall, CA
Job Type
Regular Full-Time
Job Number
25-40
Department
Public Works Engineering
Opening Date
09/23/2025
Closing Date
10/8/2025 5:30 PM Pacific
Description
Benefits
Questions
Position Summary
Excellent Career Opportunity
City of La Mesa
ASSISTANT/ASSOCIATE ENGINEER
*ASSISTANT ENGINEER - $7,379 - $9,652 monthly
*ASSOCIATE ENGINEER - $8,503 - $11,123 monthly
The City of La Mesa is currently accepting applications for Assistant/Associate Engineer to fill one immediate vacancy in the Engineering Division of the City's Public Works Department.
The City of La Mesa is looking for a successful candidates to perform professional level engineering duties in support of the City's engineering services and activities including design and construction projects for City streets, storm drains, sewer lines, traffic and related capital improvement programs; to prepare construction plans and specifications for capital improvement projects; to perform field survey and construction oversight duties; to serve as project manager on assigned projects; and to ensure work quality and adherence to professional engineering standards.
Assistant Engineer - This is the entry level class within the Engineering classification series. This class is distinguished from the Associate Engineer by the performance of the more routine tasks and duties assigned to positions within the series. Work is usually supervised while in progress and fits a structured and established pattern. Generally, changes in procedures or exceptions are explained in detail as they arise. Typically, employees at this level would have completed a college degree in the civil engineering field but would have limited work experience.
Associate Engineer - This is the full journey level class within the professional Engineer classification series. Employees within this class are distinguished from the Assistant Engineer by the performance of the full range of duties as assigned including responsibility for coordinating more complex engineering design and construction projects from inception to completion. 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 polices of the work unit.
*NOTE: Vacant position may be filled as either an Associate Engineer or an Assistant Engineer depending on candidate qualifications and experience.
Key Responsibilities
The following duties are typical for this classification. Incumbents may not perform all of the listed duties and/or may be required to perform additional or different duties from those set forth below to address business needs and changing business practices.
Perform professional level engineering duties in support of the City's public works and community development engineering, operations and maintenance services. The activities include but are not limited to evaluation of infrastructure, asset management, engineering design and construction; oversight for the City infrastructures including streets, parks, storm drains, sewer lines, traffic, building maintenance and fleet.
Prepare designs and specifications for assigned projects; research project design requirements; develop engineering drawings, construction plans, specifications, contract documents, bid documents, calculations, cost estimates for proposed projects and schedules.
Maintain accurate records of projects, budgets or field observations required for the delivery of civil engineering services for the City.
Investigate field conditions related to public improvements, public utilities, and traffic safety operations; investigate field problems affecting property owners, contractors, and maintenance operations; work with public or private contractors on public improvements; prepare accurate reports, diagrams and recommendations related to the responsibilities of the Engineering Division.
Prepare feasibility and engineering reports for services or public improvement projects.
Participate in the plan check, review, and processing of plans for private developments affecting City streets, sewers, drains, and related public works and community development facilities; ensure that they meet all City standards and development conditions.
Perform survey, mapping, and data collection; evaluate data and prepare recommendations.
Assist in the operation, maintenance, and installation of traffic signs, signals, street lights, and pavement markings for City thoroughfares; administer the maintenance of assigned contracts; respond to maintenance requests from the public and City staff; ensure that invoices from contractors are in compliance with existing contract; establish policies and procedures for reporting maintenance for street lights and traffic signals and for updating pavement conditions.
Provide assistance to contractors, engineers, and the general public on engineering policies and procedures; review submitted plans, drawings and specifications for compliance with engineering and City codes and standards.
Participate in the preparation of requests for proposals and bids; review contract bids and proposals; participate in the selection of contracted services.
As assigned, serve as project engineer for engineering design and construction projects; administer project from inception to completion including design, plan review, public meetings, bidding and construction; develop scope of work; serve as liaison to City staff, developers, engineers, consultants, the general public and external agencies on proposed development projects; develop project timelines and set priorities; assign work tasks and oversee the services of consultant staff.
Review engineering design and construction plans, drawings, specifications, contract documents, cost estimates, engineering calculations and related documents prepared by consulting engineers and contractors for compliance with professional and City standards and practices; coordinate reviews with other departments and agencies.
Administer contracts for assigned engineering projects; conduct site inspections during and at completion of project; monitor construction progress and changes to scope of work; discuss and recommend change orders; review and process requests for contract and final payments; prepare project close-out documents.
Review water quality plans and reports; field oversight and implementation of water quality requirements and best management practices.
Serve as staff to a variety of City commissions, boards, and committees related to public works or community development engineering matters.
Coordinate engineering activities with other City departments, divisions and outside agencies.
Attend and participate in professional group meetings; stay abreast of new trends and innovations in the field of civil engineering design and construction management.
As assigned, supervise and train lower level professional and technical engineering staff.
Perform related duties as required.
For more information, see the job description(s) below:
Assistant Engineer (https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/lamesa/classspecs/746652?keywords=associate%20engineer&pagetype=classSpecifications)
Associate Engineer (https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/lamesa/classspecs/746652?keywords=associate%20engineer&pagetype=classSpecifications)
Minimum Qualifications
Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:
Education/Training:
Equivalent to a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in civil engineering or a related field.
Experience:
Assistant Engineer - At least two (2) years of para-professional engineering experience or internship with a public agency or civil engineering firm is desirable.
Associate Engineer - At least three (3) years of increasingly responsible professional engineering experience.
License or Certificate:
Possession of an appropriate, valid driver's license with a satisfactory driving record.
Assistant Engineer - Possession of an Engineer-In-Training Certificate is desirable.
Associate Engineer - Possession of a Certificate of Registration as a professional engineer in the State of California is preferred.
Examination Process
I nterested applicants must submit both an online application and a completed supplemental questionnaire by the closing date . A cover letter and resume is required. Unless specifically stated otherwise in this announcement, all requirements must be met at the time of application, and all required licenses and certificates must be current and valid. Candidates whose qualifications most closely meet the needs of the City will be invited to participate in the examination process for this position. The examination process may consist of any of the following components: practical skills assessment, writing assignment and appraisal interview.
*SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
Recruitment Closes - Wednesday, October 8, 2025, 5:30 P.M.
Initial Interview Panel: Week of October 27, 2025
*Please note, all dates and/or timeframes are subject to change.
NOTE:
Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a pre-employment background including a live scan fingerprint and reference check.
The City of La Mesa is an Equal Opportunity and ADA compliant employer. All qualified candidates and veterans are welcome to apply!
The City of La Mesa offers a comprehensive benefit package including vacation, holiday, and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, and life insurance. Click here (https://www.cityoflamesa.us/DocumentCenter/View/22734/General-Employees-Unit-July-2024-PDF) for a summary of Employee benefits.
For additional detailed information regarding salaries and benefits, please review the La Mesa City Employees Association MOU. (https://www.cityoflamesa.us/DocumentCenter/View/11348/La-Mesa-City-Employees-Association-MOU-PDF?bidId=)
01
Each applicant must complete this supplemental questionnaire as part of the application screening and selection process. The information you provide will be reviewed and used to determine your eligibility to continue in the selection process. Resumes in lieu of this questionnaire will not be accepted. Please be as descriptive as possible in your responses. Incomplete responses, false statements, omissions, or partial information may result in disqualification from the selection process. Do you agree to answer each supplemental question truthfully and that your responses can be verified from information included within the application?
Yes
No
02
What is your highest level of education?
High school, GED, or equivalent
Associate degree
Some College
Bachelor degree
Master's Degree
PhD
03
Please indicate the years of increasingly responsible professional engineering experience you have.
No Experience
Less than 1 year experience
1 to 2 years experience
3+ years of experience
04
Do you possess a valid California driver's license, or equivalent?
Yes
No
05
Do you possess a valid Certificate of Registration as a professional engineer in the State of California? If yes, please attach a copy to your application.
Yes
No
06
Do you possess a valid Engineer-In-Training Certificate? If yes, please attach a copy to your application.
Yes
No
07
Do you have at least two years of para-professional engineering experience or internship with a public agency or civil engineering firm?
Yes
No
08
Describe your experience and knowledge regarding the inspection of capital improvement projects. If you have no related experience in this area, please type "N/A".
09
Describe your experience and knowledge preparing design plans and specifications for capital improvement projects. If you have no related experience in this area, please type "N/A".
10
Describe your experience and knowledge in managing capital improvement projects. If no experience in this area, please type "N/A".
11
Describe your knowledge of computer applications, including CAD, spreadsheets, word processing, Access, and GIS for engineering projects.
12
Please describe your experience with infrastructure asset management. If you have no related experience in this area, please type "N/A."
13
This application requires a resume and cover letter. Did you attach a resume and cover letter?
Yes
No
14
APPLICANT'S ACKNOWLEDGMENT - NOTIFICATION VIA ELECTRONIC MAIL (E-MAIL): The City of La Mesa Human Resources Division uses e-mail to notify our applicants of important information relating to the status and processing of your application. Therefore, as an applicant, you are hereby advised of the following: 1. Ensure that the e-mail address and contact information you provide is current, secure, and readily accessible to you. Do not share e-mail addresses. Spam or other filters should be adjusted to accept our e-mails. We will not be responsible in any way if you do not receive our e-mail notifications, i.e., for the non-delivery of e-mail or if you fail to check your e-mail inbox on a timely basis, etc. 2. Carefully read any notices that we send in a timely manner. Follow further instructions, if any. We recommend that you print and keep a hard copy of our notices for your records. I acknowledge that I have read, understand, and agree to the above.
Yes
No
Required Question
Employer
City of La Mesa
Address
8130 Allison Avenue La Mesa, California, 91942
Phone
619-667-1175
Website
https://www.cityoflamesa.gov/
Apply
Please verify your email address Verify Email