JOB SUMMARY

The incumbent is responsible for managing and directing the activities of the Engineering Department as they relate to public infrastructure improvements to include: bridges, streets, associated stormwater drainage, water and wastewater system improvements, operational support of all such improvements, and the management of the operating budget for all such operations.  The incumbent also oversees all Capital Improvement Projects (CIPs) for the Engineering Department and represents the City in engineering matters.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES

Note: All City of Fort Smith positions require the employee to provide good customer service to both internal and external customers, maintain positive and effective working relationships with other City employees, and have regular and reliable attendance that is non-disruptive.  Must show cooperation and respect to fellow employees and supervisors at all times.  All other duties as assigned by the immediate supervisor and/or department director. 

• Manages and directs engineering staff in implementation of infrastructure to include: bridges, streets, associated stormwater drainage, and water/wastewater system projects.
• Determines scope, magnitude and criteria for engineering projects.
• Prepares briefing reports, resolutions and ordinances for the Board of Directors and make public presentations.
• Meets with other governmental agencies, citizens and consultants regarding technical matters.
• Review and resolve citizen complaints.
• Review and approve staff recommendations regarding development and floodplain issues.
• Oversees the City's Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System permit.
• Participates in the development of GIS.
• Handles special projects as assigned.
• Able to react to change in a productive manner and handle other essential duties as assigned.
• Serves as city's expert witness in court trials involving eminent domain right of way acquisition.
• Provides engineering guidance and technical expertise to the city attorneys and appraisers in negotiations and in preparation for trials.
• Oversee all Engineering Department budgeting to include Capital Improvement Projects (CIPs) for future bridges, streets, associated stormwater drainage, and water/wastewater system projects.
• Evaluates private development projects transitioning over to the City of Fort Smith oversight.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

Directly supervises two (2) Deputy Directors and the administrative staff of the department.  Indirectly supervises approximately thirty-five (35) other employees within the department.  Carries out supervisor responsibilities in accordance with the city’s policies and applicable laws.  Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, evaluating, training employees; planning, assigning and directing work; addressing complaints and resolving problems.  Provides supervision to multiple engineering consultants and contractors for street, drainage, water and sewer construction projects.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in Engineering is required for this position; Civil Engineering is preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years work experience in civil engineering, design, management and administration of municipal infrastructure projects.
• Must maintain professional engineering license to practice in the State of Arkansas.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering Degree

OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• The incumbent should possess excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills is required.
• Problem solving and analytical ability are required to perform the duties of this position.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are also required.
• The incumbent should have knowledge of modern office practices, procedures and equipment.
• Must be proficient in the use of personal computer and associated software.
• Knowledgeable about GIS, CAD and other state of the art technologies

POSITION DESIGNATIONS

This position is not designated as essential during inclement weather events.  City services will be maintained during inclement weather, such as heavy snow or ice storms and all essential employees are expected to report to work due to the critical functions of the position.  This position is  able to work remotely.      

This position does  have the potential to drive as part of their regular job duties.

This position is designated as a safety/security sensitive position and is subject to random DOT drug and alcohol screenings and/or non-DOT drug and alcohol screenings (a safety/security sensitive position is one in which a momentary lapse in attention may result in injury or death of another person).

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee must frequently stand, walk, talk and hear.  Occasionally sit; use hands to handle objects and reach with hands and arms.  The incumbent must also climb or balance and stoop, knee, crouch or crawl.  Specific vision abilities required by this job include close, color, distance and peripheral vision.  Depth perception and the ability to adjust focus are also required.

The employee is occasionally required to lift up to 25 pounds.

While performing the duties of this position the incumbent is occasionally exposed to is exposed to fumes or airborne particles, and hot, cold and wet weather.

The noise level in the environment is usually moderate.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this position the incumbent is exposed to outdoor weather conditions and is required to work near moving mechanical parts.  The incumbent is also exposed to fumes or airborne particles and toxic or caustic chemicals as well as non-weather related extreme heat.  The incumbent is also at risk of electrical shock and vibration. 

The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate; however, it can also become very loud when working near an active construction site.

EMPLOYMET SCREENINGS

This position requires the below screenings prior to employment:

• Criminal History Background Check
• Motor Vehicle Record Check
• Post-Offer Drug Screen in accordance with the Arkansas Medical Marijuana Amendment

**This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee and/or applicant.  Duties, responsibilities and activities may change or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice**

About City of Fort Smith

Fort Smith operates under a board of directors-city administrator form of government. The Board of Directors is made up of seven members: four single ward members and three at-large members, plus the Mayor, who is also elected at-large but does not vote. Members serve four-year terms with no limits. The City employs approximately 1,100 staff members and has a FY2025 operating budget of $195 million.

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