Engineering Technician I/II
The Engineering Technician I/II supports the planning, design, and construction of public works and capital improvement projects by performing technical engineering tasks such as field surveys, drafting, GIS mapping, and permit processing. Under varying levels of supervision, the role involves maintaining engineering records, conducting research, preparing reports, and assisting professional engineers to ensure accurate project documentation and compliance with regulations. This position requires strong technical skills, attention to detail, and effective communication with the public and project stakeholders.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Engineering (Municipal/Public Works).
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Compensation & Location
Confidential Client — Santa Ana, CA (Full-time)
- Engineering Technician I: $63,543 to $81,489 annually
- Engineering Technician II: $70,205 to $90,030 annually
What You’ll Do
Under supervision (I) or general supervision (II), support professional engineering staff and inspectors with office and field technical work for Capital Improvement Projects (CIP), plan review, permit processing, and GIS/map maintenance.
- Prepare, interpret, and help maintain specifications, plans, estimates, and reports for public works, land development, utilities, and other CIP projects
- Conduct field observations and surveys for sidewalks, utility lines, topography, and other mapping needs
- Maintain engineering and transportation files, plans, as-builts, and permit records; reproduce and distribute maps, blueprints, and related documents
- Use GIS software to create and update plot plans, topographic maps, improvement plans, and illustrative graphics
- Perform basic drafting and CAD support for streets, storm drains, utilities, and related projects
- Receive, log, and track submitted engineering plans for plan check; coordinate document routing and status updates with consultants and developers
- Respond to public requests for maps, permits, and reports; resolve routine conflicts involving owners, contractors, developers, and utilities
- Issue permits and accept fees at the counter when required
- Prepare routine technical reports, databases, and periodic summaries; recommend procedural updates based on findings
- Assist with maintaining or posting engineering records for public access on department systems
- Perform other duties as assigned
What We’re Looking For (Qualifications)
- Knowledge of civil engineering principles as applied to office and field support for public works projects
- Familiarity with plan types, review practices, permit filing procedures, and technical drafting/surveying support
- Proficiency with GIS concepts and software; ability to modify engineering drawings and maps
- Ability to perform engineering computations, make accurate field observations, and use drafting/surveying instruments
- Strong written and verbal communication, record-keeping, and customer service skills
- Ability to organize work, set priorities, and meet deadlines with minimal supervision (II level demonstrates full journey-level independence)
Education & experience (typical):
- Equivalent of high school diploma plus at least two years of college-level coursework in civil engineering, drafting, surveying, mathematics, or related field
- Engineering Technician I: Minimum 1 year of paraprofessional experience in civil engineering, drafting, surveying, or related field (a bachelor’s degree may substitute for up to one year of experience)
- Engineering Technician II: Minimum 3 years of progressively responsible paraprofessional experience in civil engineering, drafting, surveying, or related field — or 2 years equivalent experience at the I level
Licenses & Certifications
- Engineering Technician I: Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid California Class C driver’s license by time of appointment
- Engineering Technician II: Valid California Class C driver’s license with satisfactory driving record and automobile insurance; Engineer-In-Training (EIT) certification is highly desirable
Working Conditions & Physical Requirements
- Primarily office-based with frequent field visits requiring walking, standing, and exposure to outdoor conditions
- Must be able to use computers and standard office equipment; lift/move items up to 25 pounds occasionally
- May encounter noise, weather, road hazards, mechanical/electrical hazards, and interactions with the public and contractors
Why Join
- Contribute to municipal infrastructure and community-facing public works projects
- Opportunities for on-the-job training and progression from Technician I to II
- Work within a team committed to teamwork, integrity, and excellence in public service
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind.
To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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