Special Projects Coordinator / Engineering Co-op

The Engineering Co-Op assists the Department of Public Works (DPW) with construction inspection, field data collection, and infrastructure compliance activities under the direct supervision of the Lead Engineering Technician and Compliance Manager. This position provides hands-on experience in municipal engineering projects, including water, sewer, and roadway systems, while supporting regulatory compliance and documentation efforts. What You'll Do Gain hands-on experience in construction inspection and municipal infrastructure projects Learn how to interpret engineering drawings and specifications in real-world applications Assist in materials observation, sampling, and testing (including concrete and asphalt) Participate in basic field and laboratory testing such as: Concrete slump, air content, and cylinder preparation Asphalt density, temperature checks, and compaction verification Develop skills in field reporting, measurements, and as-built documentation Work directly with experienced field staff and engineers on active projects Assist in surveying, layout, and data collection using industry equipment Learning Outcomes Direct experience working in municipal field operations Exposure to construction inspection, materials testing, surveying, and infrastructure projects Understanding of municipal standards, compliance requirements, and field practices Development of practical skills in surveying, measurements, testing, and engineering documentation Work under the direction of a supervisor to support daily field operations and inspections Perform field observations and assist with inspections of: Roadway construction and maintenance Water main and sewer installations/repairs Concrete, asphalt, and utility-related work Verify contractors' work for compliance with plans, specifications, and City standards Assist in documenting field conditions, quantities, and work progress Prepare daily inspection reports and field logs Record measurements, quantities, and as-built information for project documentation Assist in identifying field issues and communicating them to supervisors Support coordination between contractors, inspectors, and DPW staff Assist with compliance-related inspections such as: Water service line material verification Cross-connection control inspections Lead and copper sampling support Collect, input, and verify field and compliance data Assist with ROW (Right-of-Way) Permits. Assist with FOG (Fats, Oil and Grease) Program Assist with maintaining records, reports, and documentation related to projects and compliance programs Participate in site visits to verify existing conditions and assist in resolving field conflicts Survey & Layout Support Assist with basic surveying tasks for municipal projects Operate and support the use of survey equipment such as: GPS units Total stations Levels and rods Help establish reference points, elevations, and alignments in the field Assist in collecting and recording survey data for design verification and as-built purposes Support layout and staking activities for construction projects Verify field elevations, slopes, and locations against design plans Coursework in: Transportation engineering Surveying/Geomatics Construction management Environmental or water resources engineering Basic understanding of construction plans, specifications, and materials testing procedures Familiarity with: AutoCAD, MicroStation, or GIS Survey equipment (GPS, total station, level) Microsoft Office Suite Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Ability to follow direction and work under supervision in a field environment Strong attention to detail for inspection, testing, and documentation tasks Good communication skills for interaction with contractors and team members Ability to maintain accurate field records and reports Basic problem-solving skills and willingness to learn Ability to work independently after receiving direction Working Conditions Primarily a field-based position with some office support work Exposure to construction sites, traffic, and weather conditions Requires walking, standing, and occasional lifting The selection process will include a review of the applicant's experience for posted requirements, a criminal history check, and an oral board interview. Each step of the process must be passed before the applicant will be moved to the next step. Applicants will be invited to further participate in the selection process based on the nature and extent of their related experience.