Civil Engineer (I, II, or III)

Position may be filled at the I, II, or III level, depending on qualifications and department needs.

The City of Littleton Department of Public Works & Utilities is seeking a collaborative and solutions-oriented Civil Engineer to join the Engineering Division. This position offers the opportunity to plan, design, and deliver meaningful public infrastructure projects that enhance the quality of life for our residents and businesses. Working as part of the city's Capital Improvement Program (CIP), you'll manage projects through every phase, from planning and design to construction and closeout, while partnering with consultants, contractors, utility providers, public agencies, and the community. Whether hired at the Civil Engineer I, II, or III level based on qualifications and experience, you'll play an integral role in delivering transportation, utility, drainage, and pavement improvement projects by providing technical expertise, managing complex engineering initiatives, and ensuring high-quality infrastructure for the community.

The ideal candidate is an effective communicator and skilled relationship building who enjoys managing infrastructure projects from concept through construction. The ideal candidate takes ownership of their work, exercises sound judgment, and is motivated by improving public infrastructure and serving the community.

For information about some of the current and upcoming projects the CIP team manages or may be involved in, visit: Public Works Projects.

About the City of Littleton

The City of Littleton is a vibrant community consistently recognized as one of America’s Best Small Cities, and a top destination for families. Discover some of the remarkable things Littleton has to offer at VisitLittleton.org. With its historic and lively downtown, diverse shopping and dining options, and an extensive network of parks and trails, Littleton boasts a prime location just south of Denver and a short drive to the majestic Rocky Mountains and Colorado ski country. The City of Littleton offers excellent benefits and perks to its employees. For more details, please refer to the 2026 Benefit Guide.

The City of Littleton believes in attracting and retaining the best talent and its strategies include offering competitive pay and investing in employee growth and development opportunities.

In addition to your application, please submit a cover letter that describes why you are the best candidate for this position with the City of Littleton.

Hiring pay range for Civil Engineer I Level: $93,480 - $98,400 per year

Hiring pay range for Civil Engineer II Level: $107,635 - $113,300 per year

Hiring pay range for Civil Engineer III Level: $114,665 - $120,700 per year

This full-time position is exempt per FLSA and is not eligible for overtime compensation.

Work Schedule: This position typically works 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday-Friday. This position may be able to work remotely occasionally but will also be expected to work in person at the Littleton Center building and on-site at projects throughout the city. 

Application Deadline: Applications will be accepted until finalists are identified or the position is filled, but preference will be given to complete applications received by August 24, 2026. Those who do not apply by this date may or may not be considered.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assists with or manages capital construction projects, depending on classification level, including coordinating inspections, materials testing, contractors, consultants, utility companies, public agencies and residents to ensure that projects are delivered in accordance with schedules, budgets, plans, specifications, and contract requirements.

• Reviews plans, supporting technical reports, engineering specifications, estimates and other documents for compliance with adopted codes, standards and specifications.

• Supports implementation of the city’s Capital Improvement Program and associated delivery processes.

• Designs, prepares and/or reviews projects for accuracy, feasibility, economy, and compliance with codes and regulations.

• Coordinates assigned engineering projects with other city departments, outside contractors, government agencies and organizations and the public.

• Prepares engineered plans, specifications, and contract documents for street and utility construction using CAD and related design software.

• Prepares construction cost estimates for city construction projects.

• Coordinates acquisition of easements, right-of-way and property interests as required of CIP projects.

• Coordinates surveying activities and reviews survey deliverables for use in project development and design.

• Supports the processes involved with applying for, obtaining, and administering grants, including preparation of cost estimates and grant applications.

• Contacts federal, state, and local agencies to develop engineering improvements and projects on an inter-governmental basis, and coordinates improvements with the same.

• Supports the development, implementation, and periodic updating of the city’s Pavement Management Program, including pavement condition assessment, project prioritization, budgeting, and project delivery.

• Performs construction administration duties including review of submittals, requests for information (RFIs), change orders, pay applications, schedules, testing reports, punch lists, and project closeout documentation.

• Manages engineering consultants involved in planning, design, utility coordination, right-of-way acquisition, bidding, and construction administration.

• Performs other assignments and projects as required.

• May serve as an Emergency Worker.

Additional Duties & Responsibilities for Civil Engineer II:

• Serves as Project Manager for department projects or programs.

• Identifies and implements appropriate steps in an engineering project from start to completion, identifying and problem-solving issues. 

• Collaborates with staff resources for project completion. 

• Independently manages engineering design and construction activities for assigned projects.

• Identifies and implements process improvements within the department. 

• Continues education to benefit the position and department skill sets.

• Collaborates as a resource to other city departments or outside agencies. 

• Effectively leads and mentors others as needed.

• Performs day-to-day management of projects to ensure compliance with plans and specs, measuring as built quantities and issuing payments to contractors, managing and processing change orders, reviewing submittals and RFIs, managing Geotechnical testing and results, and documenting inspections and site visits with reports and photos, punch lists, and project and contract paperwork from start to closeout.

• Provides technical guidance and project support to Civil Engineer I positions and engineering support staff.

• Manages consultant contracts, scopes, schedules, budgets, and deliverables for assigned projects.

• Coordinates project stakeholders, utility companies, regulatory agencies, and contractors to facilitate successful project delivery.

• Reviews engineering deliverables for technical accuracy, completeness, and compliance with project objectives, standards, and regulations.

• Participates in the development of project scopes, schedules, cost estimates, budgets, and funding strategies.  

Additional Duties & Responsibilities for Civil Engineer III:

• Serves as a senior technical authority and assumes overall responsibility for complex, high-profile, multi-disciplinary, or grant-funded capital projects and for other projects, as assigned.

• Budgetary responsibility for assigned projects including grant management and reimbursement if applicable.

• Provides leadership in project development, design oversight, construction administration, consultant management, and project delivery strategy.

• Provides advanced technical supervision and mentorship to engineering staff without direct supervisory authority.

• Regularly directs consultant teams and coordinates multidisciplinary project teams to achieve project objectives.

• Provides technical review and quality assurance of engineering work products prepared by staff, consultants, and contractors.

• Leads development of project scopes, budgets, schedules, funding strategies, and risk mitigation plans for major capital projects.

• Maintains budgetary responsibility for assigned projects including grant administration, reimbursement requests, and compliance with funding requirements.

• Serves as acting CIP Program Manager or departmental representative on assigned projects, committees, task forces, or initiatives as directed.

• Provides strategic input regarding Pavement Management Program implementation, CIP prioritization, project delivery methods, project funding, and engineering standards.

• Coordinates with Procurement Division on consultant selection processes and on management of professional services agreements. Coordinates with the City Attorney’s Office on contract negotiations, as required.

• Provides technical recommendations to department leadership regarding capital project priorities, engineering standards, asset management, and infrastructure investment strategies.

• Represents the department before city leadership, advisory boards, elected officials, partner agencies, and the public on assigned projects and programs.

• Assists in the development and implementation of division goals, procedures, standards, and process improvements.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Minimum Qualifications for Engineer I Level:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in Civil Engineering, Construction Management or a related science field relevant to the position; and

• Two (2) years of civil engineering design, construction administration, project delivery, oversight of public construction projects, or other closely related experience preferred;
  OR

• An equivalent combination of education, training and work experience that produces the knowledge, skill, and ability to perform the essential duties and responsibilities of the position may be considered.

• Certification as an Engineer Intern (EI) in the State of Colorado preferred but not required.

• Must possess a valid driver’s license.

• Must be able to pass a pre-employment criminal background check and motor vehicle records check.

Minimum Qualifications for Engineer II Level:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in Civil Engineering, Construction Management or a related science field relevant to the position; and

• Five (5) years of progressively responsible civil engineering design, construction administration, project management, oversight of public construction projects, or other closely related experience;
  OR

• An equivalent combination of education, training and work experience that produces the knowledge, skill, and ability to perform the essential duties and responsibilities of the position may be considered.

• Certification as a Professional Engineer (PE) in the State of Colorado preferred but not required.
  Must possess a valid driver’s license.

• Must be able to pass a pre-employment criminal background check and motor vehicle records check.

Minimum Qualifications for Civil Engineer III Level:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in Civil Engineering, Construction Management or a related science field relevant to the position; and

• Seven (7) years of progressively responsible civil engineering experience including engineering design, project management, construction administration, consultant management, and full project responsibility for public infrastructure projects, including State or Federally funded project experience;
  OR

• An equivalent combination of education, training and work experience that produces the knowledge, skill, and ability to perform the essential duties and responsibilities of the position may be considered.

• Certification as a Professional Engineer (PE) in the State of Colorado preferred but not required.
  Must have a valid driver’s license.

• Must be able to pass a pre-employment criminal background check and motor vehicle records check.

Additional Qualifications that May Be Beneficial:
 

The following qualifications may be beneficial for successful performance in this position:

• Experience administering local agency, state-funded, or federally funded projects.

• Experience developing, implementing, or managing pavement management programs.

• Experience developing, implementing, or managing a bridge management program.

• Experience preparing grant applications and administering grant-funded projects.

• Experience using Civil 3D, GIS, project management software, asset management systems, or related software.

• Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification.

• Envision Sustainability Professional (ENV SP) Credential.

• Certification as an EI in the State of Colorado or the potential to obtain licensure within 12 months.

• Certification as a PE in the State of Colorado or the potential to obtain licensure within 12 months.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES:

All Civil Engineer Levels:

• Knowledge of the principles, techniques, practices, and methods of civil engineering, construction administration, and public infrastructure project delivery. 

• Knowledge of engineering design principles, construction methods, materials, and specifications applicable to transportation, pavement, drainage, and utility infrastructure projects. Ability to review engineering plans and specifications. 

• Understanding of principles, practices, materials, and terminology related to public infrastructure construction. 

• Requires excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communications skills and the ability to effectively communicate with customers. 

• Ability to translate verbal communication into effective written materials, including reports and other documents. 

• Ability to inspect permitted engineering work and projects for completeness, ensuring proper work methods and compliance with applicable regulations and ordinances. 

• Ability to use various software platforms including Civil 3D, Microsoft Office, GIS, project management software, and aptitude to learn and apply other software. 

• Ability to interpret and apply Federal, State, and local policies, laws, and regulations. 

• Demonstrates initiative by taking on new and/or expanded responsibilities without being asked and helping others complete their tasks.

• Demonstrates professionalism, sound judgment, and accountability while effectively working with coworkers, contractors, consultants, agencies and the public.

• Demonstrates expertise and customer service that minimizes complaints, represents the city appropriately, and displays professional maturity.

• Demonstrates autonomy by working independently within guidelines and uses discretion and flexibility with situational awareness.

• Demonstrates independent decision making by recognizing the boundaries of their authority and knows when to escalate a situation, without a constant need for approval/guidance from their supervisor.

• Actively seeks resolution of conflicts between city staff, residents, contractors, or other persons dealing with the City of Littleton. Coordinates resolution with appropriate managers.

Additional Knowledge, Skills, Abilities - Civil Engineer II Level:

• Ability to independently manage engineering projects from planning and design through bidding, construction, and project closeout.

• Ability to manage consultant contracts, project schedules, project budgets, and project risks.

• Ability to coordinate multiple concurrent projects while maintaining quality, budget, and schedule objectives.

• Ability to review engineering deliverables and construction documents for technical accuracy and completeness.

• Ability to provide technical guidance, mentorship, and project support to Civil Engineer I positions and engineering support staff.

• Ability to facilitate coordination between contractors, consultants, utility companies, regulatory agencies, and city staff.

• Ability to prepare and manage project scopes, cost estimates, schedules, funding requests, and project budgets.

• Demonstrates the ability to independently resolve project issues and make engineering decisions within assigned authority.

• Ability to effectively communicate project information, recommendations, and technical concepts to a variety of audiences.

Additional Knowledge, Skills, Abilities - Civil Engineer III Level:

• Demonstrates advanced expertise in public infrastructure design, construction administration, consultant management, and capital project delivery.

• Ability to provide technical leadership, advanced engineering review, and quality assurance for complex engineering projects and programs.

• Ability to direct consultant teams and coordinate multidisciplinary project teams.

• Ability to evaluate project risks, develop mitigation strategies, and resolve complex technical and organizational challenges.

• Ability to provide advanced technical supervision and mentorship without direct supervisory authority.

• Ability to lead consultant procurement efforts, contract negotiations, and professional services management activities.

• Ability to manage complex, grant-funded, federally funded, or multi-agency capital improvement projects.

• Ability to represent the department before city leadership, elected officials, advisory boards, regulatory agencies, and public stakeholders.

• Ability to contribute to organizational strategy, infrastructure investment planning, pavement management, and capital improvement prioritization.

• Ability to influence outcomes through technical expertise, collaboration, leadership, and effective communication.

• Ability to evaluate and recommend engineering standards, policies, procedures, and project delivery methods.

• Ability to serve as a recognized technical resource for the division and provide leadership during complex or sensitive projects and initiatives.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES:

• Requires the following physical abilities to perform essential job functions: lifting, carrying, pushing or pulling objects weighing up to 50 pounds with or without assistance.

• Requires ability to sit, stand, operate a vehicle, walk, and tolerate extreme weather conditions and temperatures.

• Requires the ability to work in both office and field environments, including active construction sites, roadways, undeveloped properties, and other public infrastructure facilities.

• Requires the ability to traverse uneven terrain, construction sites, excavations, and other areas associated with engineering and construction activities.

• Requires the ability to safely access project sites and conduct field inspections in varying weather and environmental conditions.

• Requires occasional attendance at meetings outside normal business hours, including public meetings, contractor meetings, and emergency response activities.

• May be required to respond to emergency situations, natural disasters, infrastructure failures, or other incidents impacting public infrastructure and services.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Work is performed in a combination of office and field settings. Office work involves extended periods of computer use, technical document review, engineering analysis, report preparation, and participation in meetings. Field work involves exposure to construction activities, traffic, dust, noise, moving equipment, adverse weather conditions, and other conditions commonly associated with public infrastructure construction and maintenance projects.

• Employees are expected to observe all applicable safety procedures and utilize appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) while performing field activities.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The City of Littleton is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and intends to provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and job applicants regardless of age 40 and over, ancestry, color, disability, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, marital status, national origin, pregnancy, race, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, military status, or any other status protected by applicable law, and to hire and retain the best-qualified individuals without regard to any of these factors. This prohibition includes unlawful harassment based on a protected class. 

The City of Littleton will consider reasonable accommodations throughout the recruitment process and employment. Applicants and employees can request an accommodation by contacting Human Resources at 303-795-3857 or emailing [email protected].

Drug- and Alcohol-Free Workplace

The City of Littleton is committed to the health and safety of all its employees. To ensure a safe and productive work environment the city prohibits the use, sale, dispensation, manufacture, distribution or possession of alcohol, drugs, controlled substances or drug paraphernalia on any city premises or worksites. No employee shall report to work or be at work with alcohol or with any detectable amount of prohibited drugs in the employee's system. A detectable amount refers to the standards generally used in workplace drug & alcohol testing. This prohibition specifically includes marijuana, and decriminalized psychedelics whether used for medical purposes or obtained legally under state law.