Civil Engineering Specialist Supervisor

About the Role

Seattle Public Utilities has an opportunity for a Civil Engineering Specialist Supervisor within the Development Services Office (DSO). This position supervises the DSO's Side Sewer Review and Permitting Team, which determines requirements of and processes permits for new drainage and sanitary side sewer connections. This position reports to the DSO Engineering Manager. Your work will help drive Seattle’s growth and support the Mayor’s housing goals by delivering efficient, high-quality service to developers during a critical time for the city. You will supervise a team of six engineering specialists, ensuring prompt and accurate review and issuance of side sewer permit applications. You will serve as an expert on side sewer codes and policies and advise DSO leadership on updates to codes, policies, and director’s rules. You’ll support improvements to overall City permitting through coordination within Seattle Public Utilities and with other City of Seattle departments. If you’re energized by solving complex infrastructure challenges, mentoring engineering specialists, and shaping a rapidly evolving city, this role offers a chance to make a meaningful impact on Seattle’s future.

About Seattle Public Utilities

Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is a community-centered utility that delivers vital services to Seattle residents and businesses including drinking water, drainage and wastewater, and garbage/recycling/compost. SPU also provides drinking water for 1.6 million customers in the region. SPU’s work includes system maintenance and improvements and keeping Seattle clean. Over 1,400 SPU employees work with our community to provide affordable and equitable stewardship of our water and waste resources for future generations.

Responsibilities

• Team Leadership and Supervision: Provide administrative supervision including approving timesheets, clarifying personnel policies, coaching and mentoring staff, and assisting with career development.
• Supervise side sewer team activities and ensure timely, accurate issuance of side sewer permits with appropriate quality control and assurance measures.
• Supervise the review of civil engineering site plans for sanitary and drainage side sewers for conformance with applicable codes, standards, and policies.
• Supervise the review of applications for SDCI Preliminary Assessment Reports to determine points of discharge for sanitary and drainage; specify drainage and/or sanitary mainline extensions where required.
• Ensure prompt replies to inquiries received by the Side Sewer inbox and voice mailbox.
• Develop and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for team and individual performance.
• Technical and Engineering Support: Represent the DSO as a technical subject matter expert, providing guidance to developers and consultants.
• Support development, testing, and implementation of enhancements to online permitting systems.
• Coordination and Communication: Coordinate with other SPU divisions and city departments, meeting with the public and representatives of other agencies to discuss current or proposed projects.
• Set high customer service standards with measurable goals and recommend ongoing process improvements.

Qualifications

• Education: Associate Degree in Civil Engineering Technology or two years of college level coursework in engineering and construction technology (or a combination of education and/or training and/or experience which provides an equivalent background required to perform the work of the class).
• Experience: Five (5) years of civil engineering experience including two (2) years supervisory experience, OR combinations of appropriate education, training, certification, and experience will be evaluated on an individual basis for comparability to the minimum education and experience requirements.
• Required Licensure and Certifications: Current Washington State Driver's License, or equivalent mobility.

Desired Qualifications

• Technical Expertise: Knowledge of codes, standards, and policies for stormwater and side sewers; knowledge of the construction requirements for new side sewers; familiarity with SPU, SDCI and SDOT permit processes; experience with plan review and permit management software applications; understanding of utility easements and right-of-way issues.
• Leadership and Management: Proven ability to coach and develop technical staff, implement quality assurance programs, drive process improvements, and manage competing priorities under tight deadlines.
• Communication: Technical writing proficiency; skill in explaining complex engineering concepts to non-technical audiences; strong customer service skills with public-facing experience.
• Collaboration: Ability to work effectively across departments and with external stakeholders; experience mediating disputes and resolving conflicts.

Schedule

• Hybrid schedule with remote work flexibility (minimum 3 days/week in-office). Individual schedules will be agreed upon by the employee and their supervisor.
• Work is performed both in an office environment and in a public setting.
• Collaborative, inclusive team environment.

Pay & Benefits

• Salary: The salary range for this position is $65.81 - $73.66 hourly.
• Benefits: The City of Seattle offers a comprehensive benefits package including vacation, holidays, and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance for employees and their dependents.