Engineer: Hydraulic Modeler

How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply online through the City of Newport News job site. Please be sure to complete all sections of the application, including your work history and education. We look forward to learning more about you.

Apply here:https://www.nnva.gov/193/Apply-for-a-Job

GENERAL STATEMENT OF RESPONSIBILITIES

Under general supervision, this position is responsible for the oversight and management of distribution system and asset modeling. Reports to Senior Engineer.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Performs complex modeling and analyses to support operations and management decisions; reviews distribution system parameters such as water main breaks and customer water quality complaints; develops, recommends, and coordinates long-range plans pertaining to pipeline replacement size, hydraulic modeling, and asset management; maintains and updates the existing codebase; develops and recommends policies and procedures; and establishes and implements management systems to effectively meet operating goals and objectives. Prepares technical reports and documentation as needed. Oversees the technical review of municipal and state projects as well as project easement plats and deeds. Oversees and serves as project manager on major water utility projects; identifies, researches, and recommends project needs, plans, and scope of work; drafts requests for proposals; assists in selecting contractors; oversees and monitors work performed by contractors to ensure that contract plans, scope and specifications are being followed; oversees project inspections; interprets, contracts, resolves conflicts, and negotiates contract changes as appropriate; reviews and recommends invoices for payment.  Ensures the safety, security, and regulatory compliance of all work assigned.  Serves as a liaison and technical expert to federal, state, and local agencies and other City Departments and organizations; keeps abreast of current and future issues and trends.  Performs other duties as assigned.

PERFORMANCE STANDARD

Employees at all levels are expected to effectively work together to meet the needs of the community and the organization through work behaviors demonstrating the City’s Values. Employees are also expected to lead by example and demonstrate the highest level of ethics.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE

• Civil Engineering – Knowledge of civil engineering as related to hydraulics including the principles and theory of applied engineering, design, and construction. Knowledge of federal, state and local regulations pertaining to water distribution systems. 

• Project Management –Knowledge of organizing, planning, coordinating, managing and directing administrative functions, planning processes and technology projects.  

• Computer Programming –Proficient in understanding and working with code written in C#, SQL, and Python. 

REQUIRED SKILLS

• Judgment/Decision Making — Evaluates the best method of research and then exercises appropriate judgment in establishing priorities and resolving complex matters. Considers the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.  

• Interpersonal Relationships – Develops and maintains cooperative and professional relationships with employees, managers, and representatives from other departments and organizations.

• Technology –Utilizes personal computer applications to include hydraulic modeling, database administration, code development, AutoCAD, and standard office applications. Skilled in developing solution algorithms and designing database schemas. Ability to work with Application Programming Interfaces (API’s) to access web resources.  

• Hydraulic Modeling – Skilled in performing hydraulic and water quality simulations using typical commercial software. Familiarity with the EPANET model is desirable.

REQUIRED ABILITIES

• Coordination of Work – Ability to establish and implement effective administrative programs and procedures. Ability to plan and organize daily work routine. Establishes priorities for the completion of work in accordance with sound time-management methodology. Performs a broad range of supervisory responsibilities over others.

• Communication – Excellent ability to communicate complex ideas and proposals effectively including the preparation of engineering plans and specifications, reports, agendas, and policies. Ability to listen and understand information and ideas being presented verbally and in writing. Ability to handle a variety of issues with tact and diplomacy and in a confidential manner.  

• Financial Management – Ability to perform arithmetic, algebraic, and statistical applications to perform purchasing and financial transactions. Ability to employ economic and accounting principles and practices in the analysis and reporting of budgeting data.  

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Requires a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or closely related field and 3-5 years of engineering experience focused on modeling or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Experience in hydraulic modeling and an Engineering in Training (EIT) certification is preferred.  

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

An acceptable general background check to include a local and state criminal history check and a valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record. 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Tasks require the ability to exert very moderate physical effort in light work.  

• Some combination of stooping, kneeling, crouching, and crawling.  

• Some lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials of moderate weight (10- 20 pounds).  Occasional walking through uneven terrain.

SENSORY REQUIREMENTS

• Some tasks require the ability to perceive and discriminate sounds, depth, textures, and visual cues or signals.  

• Some tasks require the ability to communicate orally.  

ENVIRONMENTAL EXPOSURES

Performance of essential functions may require exposure to adverse environmental conditions, such as dirt, dust, pollen, wetness, humidity, weather, fumes, temperature and noise extremes, or traffic hazards.

Why Work for the City of Newport News?
The City of Newport News is an organization committed to excellence in public service with strong communication and teamwork. As an established employer of choice in the Hampton Roads area, the City is also dedicated to maximizing employee potential. Join the City of Newport News and embrace the City’s values of “Commitment, Caring and Collaboration.”