Staff Engineer
Catawba County Government
Full-Time
Closes on Friday, June 5, 2026
Job Description
Catawba County is recruiting a highly self-motivated engineer for an entry-level Staff Engineer position designed to introduce the individual to the field of civil and environmental engineering, particularly in solid waste, stormwater, water and wastewater, infrastructure, and air quality. The Staff Engineer will work in a team environment and report directly to a Project Engineer. This collaborative approach will help the new graduate become familiar with basic concepts, including fieldwork and testing, erosion and sedimentation control inspections and plan review, modeling, and engineering reporting.
Expected hiring range is $60,606.32 - $75,757.90 based on qualifications.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Project construction oversight (landfill, and/or water/sewer)
- Perform scheduled field inspections for sedimentation and erosion control small site permits
- Record inspection results from the field into the SmartGov or similar software system
- Provide communication and guidance to owners/contractors as needed for compliance
- Perform field work associated with Landfill State permitting compliance
- System Modeling of water and sewer infrastructure
- Prepare technical memoranda, electronic deliverables, and/or reports
- Evaluate concrete and street paving conditions
- Calculate material quantities and generate cost estimates
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, or a specifically related field
PREFERENCES:
- Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Certification
- Certified Professional in Erosion and Sedimentation Control (CPESC)
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Certification or ability to obtain during probationary period
- Valid driver’s license with a safe driving record (Driving is an essential function of this position)
- Understanding of construction means, methods, and best practices
- Excellent writing and oral communication skills
- Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills; ability to communicate with the public and other internal and external professionals in a tactful, positive way
- Ability to exercise independent judgment in applying standards
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
- This position is considered light work; ability to lift up to 20 pounds on a regular basis; sitting most of the time with ability to walk during onsite inspections/investigations.