What are the responsibilities and job description for the Graduate Engineer position at City of Duluth?
Job Posting Information
About The Job
The Graduate Engineer position offers an opportunity to contribute to the City’s infrastructure while building practical experience toward licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE). As a member of the Engineering Division, this position will work closely with licensed Professional Engineers and other team members to support the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of municipal infrastructure, including water, stormwater, sanitary, and natural gas utility systems.
Typical tasks include assisting with engineering design and drafting, data collection and analysis, field inspections, construction observation, and coordination with internal staff and external partners. This role provides broad exposure to municipal engineering projects and hands-on learning under the supervision of licensed PEs.
Successful candidates will demonstrate a willingness to learn, take initiative, and contribute positively in a team environment. Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills are essential, along with the ability to work effectively with coworkers, contractors, and the public. This position provides a strong foundation for professional growth and a clear path toward licensure as a Professional Engineer.
Summary/Purpose
To perform, direct, and guide others who perform engineering work in the design, construction, and maintenance of street improvements, utility installations, buildings and other structures, water, gas, storm, and sanitary utility systems.
DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS
Employees at the Graduate Engineer level are distinguished from the Project Engineer level by the amount of guidance and instruction needed to perform duties as assigned and are not expected to function with the same amount of program knowledge, experience, proficiency, or skill level. Positions at this level require frequent supervision and substantial training and exercise minimal independent discretion and judgment while working towards a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Graduate Engineers will work under the direction of Project Engineers and Senior Engineers.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED
The supervisor provides continuing or individual assignments by indicating generally what is to be done, limitations, quality and quantity expected, deadlines, and priority of assignments. The supervisor provides additional, specific instructions for new, difficult, or unusual assignments, including suggested work methods or advice on source material available.
SUPERVISION GIVEN
Does not supervise.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities (other Duties May Be Assigned)
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skills, and abilities required.
Education & Experience Requirements
The work requires some physical exertion such as long periods of standing; walking over rough, uneven, or rocky surfaces; recurring bending, crouching, stooping, stretching, reaching, or similar activities; recurring lifting of moderately heavy items such as record boxes. The work may require specific, but common, physical characteristics and abilities such as above.
Work Environment
The work environment involves everyday risks or discomforts requiring normal safety precautions typical of places such as offices, meeting and training rooms, libraries, and residences or commercial vehicles (e.g., use of safe work practices with office equipment, avoidance of trips and falls, observance of fire regulations and traffic signals, etc.). The work area is adequately lighted, heated, and ventilated.
Selection Process Information
Education & Experience Review (100% of scoring process; 70 pass point)
Applicants meeting the minimum qualifications will be rated on the type (relatedness) and extent of their education and experience, as documented on their application and/or supplemental questionnaire. Applicants who pass the Education & Experience Review will have their names placed on an eligible list for this classification.
Safety Sensitive Job
This position is regulated by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and is subject to ongoing random drug testing during employment.
Non-Discrimination
The City of Duluth is an equal opportunity and veteran-friendly employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status with regard to public assistance, disability, genetic information, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.
Alternative Exam Process (does not apply to Charter Appointment, provisional, temporary, or part-time non-union selections)
For individuals who qualify under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), alternative examination processes are available on an individual basis upon prior arrangement. Contact Human Resources at 218-730-5210, as soon as possible prior to the scheduled date of the exam. TDD services are available through 218-730-5630.
Work Eligibility
In accordance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, the City of Duluth requires verification of identity and work eligibility at the point of hire.
Right to Appeal (does not apply to Charter Appointment, provisional, temporary, or part-time non-union selections)
Any applicant who has been found qualified to participate in a selection process for a position in the classified service who has reason to contest the validity or fairness of any step in the selection process may appeal to the Civil Service Board within 10 calendar days of the examination. (If the examination is an Education & Experience Review, the applicant must appeal within 10 calendar days of the closing date for accepting applications.) The notice of appeal shall be in writing, shall contain a complete statement of the matter in controversy and the relief requested, and shall be signed and dated by the appellant. The notice shall be addressed to the Civil Service Board and be delivered to the Human Resources Office. If an applicant wishes to file an appeal electronically, the notice should be sent by email to hrinformation@duluthmn.gov.
VETERANS PREFERENCE
Does not apply to Charter Appointment, provisional, seasonal, temporary, or part-time non-union selections
To apply for Veterans Preference, the applicant must attach the required documents when submitting their application.
Veteran
Required Documents:
Required Documents:
Required Documents:
Required Documents:
Points are only awarded to Disabled Veteran's score one time, on first promotional or internal only selection process after securing City employment.
Disabled Veteran
Required Documents:
Eligible City of Duluth employees earn a competitive salary and benefits package, including:
01
Which option best describes how you meet the minimum Education & Experience Requirements for the Graduate Engineer position?
Which option best describes your current driver's license status?
Please describe your current status with the Engineer-in-Training (EIT) exam. For example: certified, passed and awaiting certificate, scheduled, planning to sit for the exam, etc. If scheduled or planned, include the anticipated date or timeframe.
04
What other training or certifications do you hold (e.g., stormwater erosion control, traffic control, or MnDOT certifications, or similar)?
05
Why do you want to work for the City, and what areas of municipal engineering are you most interested in?
06
Describe your engineering-related experience, including internships, coursework, or projects. Include your role and the type of work involved (e.g., design, construction, utilities, transportation, stormwater, etc.).
07
Describe your experience using engineering or technical software (e.g., AutoCAD, GIS/ESRI, Bluebeam, or similar tools). Include examples of how you have used these programs.
About The Job
The Graduate Engineer position offers an opportunity to contribute to the City’s infrastructure while building practical experience toward licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE). As a member of the Engineering Division, this position will work closely with licensed Professional Engineers and other team members to support the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of municipal infrastructure, including water, stormwater, sanitary, and natural gas utility systems.
Typical tasks include assisting with engineering design and drafting, data collection and analysis, field inspections, construction observation, and coordination with internal staff and external partners. This role provides broad exposure to municipal engineering projects and hands-on learning under the supervision of licensed PEs.
Successful candidates will demonstrate a willingness to learn, take initiative, and contribute positively in a team environment. Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills are essential, along with the ability to work effectively with coworkers, contractors, and the public. This position provides a strong foundation for professional growth and a clear path toward licensure as a Professional Engineer.
Summary/Purpose
To perform, direct, and guide others who perform engineering work in the design, construction, and maintenance of street improvements, utility installations, buildings and other structures, water, gas, storm, and sanitary utility systems.
DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS
Employees at the Graduate Engineer level are distinguished from the Project Engineer level by the amount of guidance and instruction needed to perform duties as assigned and are not expected to function with the same amount of program knowledge, experience, proficiency, or skill level. Positions at this level require frequent supervision and substantial training and exercise minimal independent discretion and judgment while working towards a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Graduate Engineers will work under the direction of Project Engineers and Senior Engineers.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED
The supervisor provides continuing or individual assignments by indicating generally what is to be done, limitations, quality and quantity expected, deadlines, and priority of assignments. The supervisor provides additional, specific instructions for new, difficult, or unusual assignments, including suggested work methods or advice on source material available.
SUPERVISION GIVEN
Does not supervise.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities (other Duties May Be Assigned)
- Perform responsible, entry-level engineering work involving the design, construction, and maintenance of various engineering projects.
- Assist in writing project specifications per city, state, and federal guidelines and industry standards for various street and utility jobs.
- Estimate costs using previous bids and regional trends, for projects and capital budgeting.
- Perform preliminary pavement and utility design work using data collection and analysis, software programs, engineering calculations, and methodologies to develop construction solutions that meet local, state, and federal standards.
- Operate computers to prepare, review, and edit engineering drawings, analyze data and cost estimations through spreadsheet software, prepare project memorandums and reports, and use modeling software to simulate and analyze existing utility system networks and proposed expansion or retrofit projects.
- Meet with representatives within the Engineering Division, other City departments, public and private utility owners, and county, state, and federal regulatory agencies with authority or involvement in construction and repair to keep parties informed about City policies. Gather input on issues or concerns, and report back to appropriate Engineering staff for direction and guidance.
- Ensure that projects are completed in a timely and cost-effective manner in accordance with engineering standards and City specifications.
- Assist the Project Engineers and Senior Engineers with resolution of any issues that arise.
- Review plans, provide recommendations, and check construction for conformance with standards and specifications.
- Investigate, prepare, and present technical reports and presentations both within the City and at public meetings.
- Prepare petitions and Council resolutions related to street and utility projects.
- Investigate and respond to citizen complaints.
- Represent the Public Works & Utilities Department and/or Engineering Division at various meetings and activities.
- Inform, educate, and exchange ideas with other professionals, agencies, and the public regarding engineering projects and standards, and City policies and programs.
- In collaboration with supervisor, determine work priorities both for staffing and financial resource allocation.
- Assign work to lower-level staff, providing training and instruction as required.
- Prepare MPCA Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plans; coordinate materials testing with contractors, MnDOT, and consultant engineering testing companies; monitor work for compliance with established methods, guidelines, standards, and procedures.
- Monitor inspection activities to ensure contract progress and compliance with specifications and special provisions.
- Review work of team members for completeness and quality of work prepared, and provide mentoring through feedback and instructions as needed.
- Provide information and instructions to assigned team verbally and in writing as needed.
- Be an effective team member by exhibiting self-motivation, supporting other employees in handling tasks, interacting effectively and respectfully with others, showing a desire to contribute to the team effort, accepting assignments willingly, and completing tasks within agreed upon timelines.
- In collaboration with the supervisor, organize and direct the work activities of assigned team and determine work assignments and schedules.
- Provide input on decisions regarding the hiring processes and onboarding procedures of personnel.
- Establish and maintain positive working relationships with the supervisor and employees by maintaining two-way communication, producing consistent results, advocating for the team when appropriate, and offering expertise to improve processes, systems, and the organization.
- Other duties may be assigned.
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skills, and abilities required.
Education & Experience Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in civil engineering from an accredited college or university.
- Certification as an Engineer in Training (EIT) from the Minnesota Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience and Interior Design (AELSLAGID).
- Possess and maintain a valid Minnesota Class D driver's license or privilege.
- Knowledge of general engineering principles and construction contract documents.
- Knowledge of drafting and mapping principles, techniques, and standards.
- Knowledge of surveying methods, equipment capabilities, and liabilities associated with survey data collection and interpretation.
- Knowledge of design and layout methods and techniques.
- Knowledge of the principles, methods, equipment, and materials used in construction.
- Knowledge of specialized Civil Engineering computer software packages.
- Knowledge of construction safety principles and practices.
- Knowledge of problem-solving and conflict-resolution techniques.
- Knowledge of applicable safety requirements.
- Knowledge of, or the ability to learn, City policies and procedures.
- Knowledge of, or the ability to learn, federal, state, and local laws, statutes, regulations, codes, and standards related to the area of responsibility.
- Skill in applying engineering principles and practices.
- Skill in estimating construction costs and establishing project budgets.
- Skill in performing engineering design and layout work.
- Skill in preparing specifications, technical reports, contracts, resolutions, and petitions.
- Skill in the operation of office equipment including, but not limited to, general computer systems, job-required software applications, design and data analysis modeling programs, the internet, and modern office equipment.
- Skill in managing one's own time.
- Skill in completing assignments accurately and with attention to detail.
- Skill in using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
- Ability to direct the work activities of designers, surveyors, and inspectors assigned to the project team.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers, outside agencies, contractors, consultants, and the general public.
- Ability to enforce, interpret, and apply safety rules and regulations to work situations.
- Ability to create and maintain a positive working environment that welcomes diversity, ensures cooperation, and promotes respect by sharing expertise with team members, fostering safe work practices, and developing trusting work relationships.
- Ability to communicate and interact effectively with members of the public.
- Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
- Ability to understand and follow instructions.
- Ability to problem-solve a variety of situations.
- Ability to set priorities and complete assignments on time.
- Ability to work successfully as a member of a team and independently with moderate supervision.
- Ability to interpret and apply laws, contracts, regulations, policies, and procedures.
- Ability to transport oneself to, from, and around various locations throughout the City including construction sites and over difficult and demanding terrain.
- Ability to demonstrate dependability, responsibility, and consistency in job performance.
- Ability to attend work as scheduled and/or required.
The work requires some physical exertion such as long periods of standing; walking over rough, uneven, or rocky surfaces; recurring bending, crouching, stooping, stretching, reaching, or similar activities; recurring lifting of moderately heavy items such as record boxes. The work may require specific, but common, physical characteristics and abilities such as above.
Work Environment
The work environment involves everyday risks or discomforts requiring normal safety precautions typical of places such as offices, meeting and training rooms, libraries, and residences or commercial vehicles (e.g., use of safe work practices with office equipment, avoidance of trips and falls, observance of fire regulations and traffic signals, etc.). The work area is adequately lighted, heated, and ventilated.
Selection Process Information
Education & Experience Review (100% of scoring process; 70 pass point)
Applicants meeting the minimum qualifications will be rated on the type (relatedness) and extent of their education and experience, as documented on their application and/or supplemental questionnaire. Applicants who pass the Education & Experience Review will have their names placed on an eligible list for this classification.
Safety Sensitive Job
This position is regulated by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and is subject to ongoing random drug testing during employment.
Non-Discrimination
The City of Duluth is an equal opportunity and veteran-friendly employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status with regard to public assistance, disability, genetic information, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.
Alternative Exam Process (does not apply to Charter Appointment, provisional, temporary, or part-time non-union selections)
For individuals who qualify under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), alternative examination processes are available on an individual basis upon prior arrangement. Contact Human Resources at 218-730-5210, as soon as possible prior to the scheduled date of the exam. TDD services are available through 218-730-5630.
Work Eligibility
In accordance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, the City of Duluth requires verification of identity and work eligibility at the point of hire.
Right to Appeal (does not apply to Charter Appointment, provisional, temporary, or part-time non-union selections)
Any applicant who has been found qualified to participate in a selection process for a position in the classified service who has reason to contest the validity or fairness of any step in the selection process may appeal to the Civil Service Board within 10 calendar days of the examination. (If the examination is an Education & Experience Review, the applicant must appeal within 10 calendar days of the closing date for accepting applications.) The notice of appeal shall be in writing, shall contain a complete statement of the matter in controversy and the relief requested, and shall be signed and dated by the appellant. The notice shall be addressed to the Civil Service Board and be delivered to the Human Resources Office. If an applicant wishes to file an appeal electronically, the notice should be sent by email to hrinformation@duluthmn.gov.
VETERANS PREFERENCE
Does not apply to Charter Appointment, provisional, seasonal, temporary, or part-time non-union selections
To apply for Veterans Preference, the applicant must attach the required documents when submitting their application.
- Scan and combine all documents into one file before uploading it to the Attachments section of the application.
- Submitting this information is optional, but preference points cannot be awarded without it.
- Points are only awarded if the applicant passes all exams and submits all required documents to Human Resources.
Veteran
Required Documents:
- DD214 or DD215 ("Member-4" copy) showing honorable discharge.
Required Documents:
- DD214 or DD215 ("Member-4" copy) showing honorable discharge;
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (USDVA) Disability Rating Decision showing a service-connected disability rating of 10% or greater, dated within the past 12 months.
Required Documents:
- Marriage certificate;
- DD214 or DD215 ("Member-4" copy) showing honorable discharge;
- USDVA Disability Rating Decision showing a service-connected disability rating of 10% or greater, dated within the past 12 months.
- The applicant must currently be married to the veteran;
- The veteran must meet the minimum qualifications for the position but be unable to use the preference because of a service-connected disability. The applicant must explain this in their response to the related question in the Agency Questions section of the application.
Required Documents:
- Marriage certificate;
- Death certificate;
- DD214 or DD215 ("Member-4" copy) showing honorable discharge;
- USDVA Disability Rating Decision showing a service-connected disability rating of 10% or greater.
- The applicant must not have remarried;
- The veteran must have died during active duty or as a result of an injury received during active duty.
Points are only awarded to Disabled Veteran's score one time, on first promotional or internal only selection process after securing City employment.
Disabled Veteran
Required Documents:
- DD214 or DD215 ("Member-4" copy) showing honorable discharge;
- USDVA Disability Rating Decision showing a service-connected disability rating of 50% or greater, dated within the past 12 months.
Eligible City of Duluth employees earn a competitive salary and benefits package, including:
- Vacation, Sick and Personal Leave
- Paid Holidays
- Medical Plan
- Dental Plan
- Life Insurance
- Flexible Spending Accounts
- Retirement Benefits
- Deferred Compensation
- Training and Advancement Opportunities
- Employee Wellness Program
- Employee Assistance Program
01
Which option best describes how you meet the minimum Education & Experience Requirements for the Graduate Engineer position?
- I have a bachelor's degree in civil engineering from an accredited college or university.
- I do not meet this requirement.
Which option best describes your current driver's license status?
- Valid MN Class D or equivalent
- Valid MN Commercial Class C or equivalent
- Valid MN Commercial Class B or equivalent
- Valid MN Commercial Class A or equivalent
- No valid driver's license
Please describe your current status with the Engineer-in-Training (EIT) exam. For example: certified, passed and awaiting certificate, scheduled, planning to sit for the exam, etc. If scheduled or planned, include the anticipated date or timeframe.
04
What other training or certifications do you hold (e.g., stormwater erosion control, traffic control, or MnDOT certifications, or similar)?
05
Why do you want to work for the City, and what areas of municipal engineering are you most interested in?
06
Describe your engineering-related experience, including internships, coursework, or projects. Include your role and the type of work involved (e.g., design, construction, utilities, transportation, stormwater, etc.).
07
Describe your experience using engineering or technical software (e.g., AutoCAD, GIS/ESRI, Bluebeam, or similar tools). Include examples of how you have used these programs.
- Required Question