Resident Engineer (Onsite Construction Supervisor)

All Applications to be Submitted Via: https://cityofchelan.us/371/Jobs-with-the-City

Department: Public Works

Reports to: City Engineer

Wage Grade: 28 (92,496 To 112,380 Per Year)

Status: Non-Represented, Full-Time

Purpose of the Position:

The Resident Engineer is responsible for administering construction contracts in the field on behalf of the City. This role provides direct oversight of construction activities and ensures compliance with contract documents, schedules, and specifications. The position exercises independent authority and professional judgment to resolve issues, recommend corrective action, and protect the City’s interests during active construction. It contributes to policy and standards development, participates in confidential contract matters, and provides recommendations to City leadership on construction management

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

Contract Administration in the Field

• Inspects and monitors contractor work for compliance with approved plans, specifications, schedules, and contractual obligations.
• Documents construction activities in a professional and thorough manner.
• Performs material inspections and reviews material submittals to verify compliance with specification.
• Interprets contract requirements and exercises discretion in enforcing compliance.
• Recommends acceptance, rejection, or correction of contractor work based on performance and contract provisions.
• Reviews and provides recommendations on contractor submittals, requests for information (RFIs), change orders, and pay applications.

Supervision and Oversight

• Provides oversight of contractor activities and may supervise assigned City inspectors or support staff.
• Evaluates work performance of assigned staff, provides direction, and recommends disciplinary or corrective actions as appropriate.
• Coordinates daily activities between contractors, City staff, and consultants to ensure consistent progress and accountability.

Independent Authority and Discretion

• Exercises judgment in resolving field issues, interpreting contract provisions, and directing contractor actions to ensure compliance.
• Makes recommendations to the Capital Projects Manager, City Engineer, and Public Works Director on claims, disputes, or performance deficiencies.
• Approves minor field adjustments consistent with contract intent, while escalating major changes through proper channels.
• Exercises judgement in prioritizing resources to ensure multiple simultaneously scheduled capital projects receive the necessary onsite inspection.
• Take initiative to address issues proactively, using interpersonal skills to navigate conflict.

Confidential Responsibilities

• Participates in confidential discussions on contract claims, disputes, and negotiations.
• Provides confidential recommendations to City leadership related to contractor performance, claims resolution, and project delivery risks.

Policy and Standards Development

• Contributes to the development and refinement of City construction specifications, inspection procedures, and contract administration practices.
• Recommends improvements in internal processes to strengthen project delivery efficiency.

Additional Duties

• Assists with pre-construction planning and constructability reviews.
• Provides input during design phases to ensure smooth transition into construction.
• Supports development-related construction oversight when capital project workload allows.

Working Conditions & Schedule

Work is performed in an office and outside environment subject to weather. Some lifting may be required.

Knowledge, Abilities & Skills:

Strong knowledge of construction methods, materials, scheduling, safety protocols, and contract compliance. Proven ability to coordinate with contractors, design professionals, and internal staff.

Qualifications Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or other closely related field preferred but not required.
• Minimum of three years of experience in onsite construction supervision or similar roles involving public works or municipal infrastructure projects.
• Valid Washington State Driver’s License with driving record free from serious or frequent violations.

The statements contained herein reflect general details as necessary to describe the principal functions of this job, the level of knowledge and skill typically required and the scope of responsibility but should not be considered an all-inclusive listing of work requirements. Individuals may perform other duties as needed, including work in other functional areas to cover absences or relief, to equalize peak work periods, or to otherwise balance the workload.

Benefits for Full-Time Employees:

• Paid Vacation
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Sick Leave
• Retirement (DRS & DCP)
• Medical, Vision and Dental Benefits
• Life Insurance Policy
• Optional Supplemental Insurances