What are the responsibilities and job description for the Staff Engineer position at Lancaster County Water & Sewer District?
Lancaster County Water & Sewer District
Job Description
Job Title: Staff Engineer
Department: Engineering
Reports To: Engineering Director
FLSA Status: Exempt
Prepared Date: November 21, 2025
Pay Grade: 12
SUMMARY
Under general supervision, the Staff Engineer assists with plans, designs, reviews, and directs construction of water distribution and sewer collection projects throughout Lancaster County.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Analyzes reports, maps, drawings, blueprints, tests and aerial photographs, soil composition, terrain, hydrological characteristics, and other topographical and geologic data to plan and coordinate the design of water distribution and sewer collection systems.
- Calculates cost and determines feasibility of project based on analysis of collected data.
- Prepares or directs preparation and modification of reports specifications, plans, construction schedules, permit applications, and project designs.
- Assists with the Capital Improvement Plan.
- Coordinates with inspectors to monitor progress and ensure conformance to engineering plans, specifications, review of material submittals, and construction and safety standards which may require site visits.
- Assists with planning, and direction for District construction crews.
- Uses computer assisted engineering and design software and equipment to prepare and/or interpret engineering and design documents and drawings.
- Assists with the District line extension and developer policy implementation.
- Identifies problems or situations as they occur and specifies decision objectives. Assists in identifying alternative solutions to problems and implementing decisions in accordance with all District Safety procedures and other policies with minimum error. Seeks expert and experienced advice and researches problems, situations, and alternatives before exercising judgment.
- Provides support in an advisory role to water/wastewater departments, water treatment, and wastewater treatment facilities.
- Handles correspondence, prepares a wide variety of reports on activities as requested.
- Performs related tasks as required.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
- Knowledge of the principles and practices of water and wastewater planning, design, and contract administration.
- Ability to perform difficult engineering computations and make recommendations on engineering issues.
- Ability to formulate complex and detailed operational policies and procedures.
- Ability to prepare technical reports and presentations.
- Ability to accept instructions and directions to meet the goals and objectives of the District.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with officials, other public officials, employees, contractors, and the general public.
- Ability to communicate complex ideas effectively, orally and in writing.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
A Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in environmental and/or civil engineering and a minimum of 2 years of experience is preferred in the water and wastewater field. Applicants will be evaluated based on actual experience and qualifications.
CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS
A South Carolina Professional Engineer license is preferred or candidate on track to achieve a Professional Engineer license or equivalent experience to a Professional Engineer. Required certifications include an “A” Wastewater Collection and “A” Water Distribution, or the ability to obtain certifications within 36 months of hire. Must possess a valid driver’s license.
COMPENSATION
The employee shall be compensated on a salaried work week with normal hours being 8am-5pm, Monday through Friday although after-hour work may be required from time to time to fulfill the duties of the job. Employees will be paid bi-weekly (26 times per year).
Pay is based on skills, education, certification, experience, etc.