
Dream Bigger Than Your Zip Code: How a Rural Pennsylvania Kid Became a NIST Scientist
Credit: R. Wilson/NIST
Growing up in rural Pennsylvania, I didn’t have scientists for role models. In fact, I’m the first woman in my family to get a college degree, much less become a scientist.
I attended underfunded public schools, where we didn’t have science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education beyond the required state minimums.
For the first eight years of my life, I lived with my grandmother, and she instilled in me a love of learning. We read all the time. I brought extra worksheets home from school and worked on them just for fun. My Nanna always told me that I could achieve anything I set my mind to, and today, I’m proud to be a scientist at NIST.
That’s why it’s important to me to connect with young students, so they know that they don’t have to limit their dreams to what they see around them.
My Journey to NIST
That’s not to say my educational and career journey was an easy one; it certainly wasn’t. I worked full-time at a car dealership while attending college part-time. It took me seven years to complete my undergraduate degree.
Today, I’m working in the exciting field of bioinformatics, which uses data to interpret information in biology and medical research. My data expertise helps researchers treat genetic conditions by introducing changes to DNA during its natural repair mechanisms, a process known as genome editing.
We’ve now seen the first patient cured of sickle cell disease from a genome-edited therapeutic. Even more recently, a baby was treated with a personalized genome-editing therapy for a rare metabolic disease known as severe carbamoyl phosphate synthetase 1 (CPS1) deficiency. This cutting-edge science is transforming people’s lives, and I am honored to work alongside so many talented scientists in this revolutionary field.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Just as my Nanna encouraged me to prioritize my education and dream big, I’m trying to help inspire the next generation of scientists. I focus my outreach to students who have similar backgrounds to mine, as these children often don’t have role models who work in STEM-related fields in their daily lives.
I correspond with students through a program called Letters to a Pre-Scientist (LPS). I exchange letters quarterly with a student, and we talk about science and other topics. The teachers and the organization’s coordinator moderate and supervise all communication. The goal is to make connections between students and real-life STEM professionals and inspire children to consider STEM fields as a possible career.
During my first school year in this program, I wrote to an eighth grade student from a STEM-focused magnet school. “Michael” (not his real name) was clearly savvy about science, and he asked me pointed questions throughout the year. He had relatives who worked in STEM fields, so it was easy for him to see me as a normal person who happens to work in science.
For my second school year, I asked LPS to pair me with a student from a lower-income background because I wanted a chance to connect with a child who grew up in similar circumstances to my own.
I was paired with “Elizabeth” (also not her real name), a seventh grader in inner-city Chicago. Elizabeth didn’t have as much exposure to science, so I really had to be intentional in how I explained my work, simplifying the concepts and focusing on relating to her as a person.
Most of her questions were about me, like my pets’ names and what I like to eat. Elizabeth needed to see me as a person before she could grasp the professional side of me and the advice I gave her.
Elizabeth mentioned she wasn’t sure she wanted to pursue a STEM career because she didn’t feel confident in math. I reminded her that math, like any skill, requires practice. I told her I believed in her, and that if she worked at it, I was sure she’d feel more confident in her math classes.
Last school year, I was honored to be one of the pen pals who received an award from the LPS organization for my efforts. Of course, it’s way too soon to know what paths Michael’s and Elizabeth’s careers will take, but I hope I encouraged them on their journey.
Science of Strawberries
One of my favorite ways to encourage a love of science is with hands-on experiments. I’ve guided people through the strawberry DNA experiment everywhere from libraries to farmers markets to elementary schools and Girl Scout troops. I’ve done this experiment many times for audiences ranging from toddlers to high school students and even some adults and senior citizens. Everyone seems to enjoy it. (I certainly do!)
As the name implies, the experiment involves extracting DNA from a strawberry using common household items. All living things, including plants, have DNA. You can perform this experiment with all sorts of vegetables, but the strawberries typically yield a good amount of DNA. It also looks cool because of the red color, and they smell great!
This experiment can help demonstrate lab concepts that may not be as familiar to nonscientists. It also teaches everyone some molecular biology concepts and skills.
One of the things I love the most about these outreach opportunities is how they’ve helped me as a scientist communicate. With each presentation, I have to constantly refine my language to ensure that it’s not too confusing for beginners or too boring for those with more expertise.
As genome editing becomes more common in medical treatment, having the opportunity to talk to members of the general public about this science and my work can help bridge the understanding of a therapy that might become part of their world.
About the Author: Sierra Miller is a bioinformaticist in the NIST Genome Editing Program, where she leads work validating computational methods for genome editing off-target assays. Sierra also leads a working group in the NIST Genome Editing Consortium for data and metadata, where she is working to establish best practices and norms, reproducible workflows and metadata capture for genome editing research.
More from 2 Topics
Explore related articles on similar topics
Top Paying Jobs in Education PK-12 and Engineering
Highest paying opportunities related to this article
Description The City is currently recruiting for the position of Assistant City Engineer. For the job brochure and application process, CLICK HERE. This recruitment will close at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, October 11, 2026. Teri Black & Company, LLC Tina White - 619.948.1786 www.tbcrecruiting.com
Berkeley, California is a small city with a big reputation. At just ten square miles of land and seven square miles of water, Berkeley is famous around the globe as a center for academic achievement, scientific exploration, free speech, and the arts, and home to over 50 parks, a top-ranked university, and the largest public marina in the San Francisco Bay. JOB OPPORTUNITY The City of Berkeley is seeking PE-licensed candidates who are passionate about improving infrastructure for a more sustainable and resilient city. As an Associate Civil Engineer, you'll have the opportunity to apply your engineering knowledge and experience toward the creation and maintenance of state-of-the-art infrastructure, amenities, and facilities. When assigned to Public Works, the Associate Civil Engineer will contribute to exciting new projects across the City. Upcoming developments include large mix-used buildings in downtown Berkeley as well as UC Berkeley projects that will require review for impacts to public right-of-way. Other assignments include Construction Management and Inspection, Buildings/Facilities, and Streets. When assigned to the Parks, Recreation & Waterfront Department, the Associate Civil Engineer functions as a project leader for Capital Projects with an emphasis on engineering design. Capital improvement teams are responsible for coordinating with stakeholders and managing contracts to get projects ready for bidding and construction. See the full job class specification here: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/berkeley/classspecs/105647 MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS A typical way of gaining the knowledge, skills, and abilities for this position is equivalent to graduation from a four year college or university with major coursework in civil engineering and three (3) years of professional engineering experience in design and construction work at a level equivalent to the Assistant Civil Engineer class. Progressively responsible related experience may be substituted for the college coursework on a year-for-year basis. Other requirements include possession of a valid California Registration as a professional Civil Engineer and possession of a valid California driver's license with a satisfactory driving record. APPLICATION PROCESS Applicants must submit a completed application and responses to the supplemental questionnaire. Please note that attachment of a resume is not a substitute for a completed application. Applications are available in alternative formats (audio-format, braille, large print, electronic text, etc.) upon request to ada@berkeleyca.gov. Please allow 10 days for production of the material in an alternative format. EXAM PROCESS The examination process will include, but may not be limited to: Application review for minimum qualifications and required documents Competitive review of applicants' education, training, and experience Tests may consist of any combination of written, oral or other exercises or assessment procedures that test content and may include, but are not necessarily limited to, typing, math, reading, writing and analytical skills; problem solving ability; computer and software proficiency, or any other job-related knowledge, skill, ability or qualification. The examination process and dates are subject to change. The City may, without notice, change or eliminate any assessment component as needs dictate. Applicants passing all examination phases will have their names placed on an employment eligible list that hiring departments will use to conduct final selection interviews. Reasonable Accommodations: The City is committed to making reasonable accommodations in the examination process and in the work environment. Individuals requesting reasonable accommodations in the examination process must submit a request in writing to hr@berkeleyca.gov at the time of application. PRE-EMPLOYMENT PROCESS Candidates under final consideration for employment with the City will undergo an employment background check that may include, but is not limited to: confirmation of employment history, educational credentials and degrees, certificates, registrations, and licenses including driver's license; credit check; criminal history check; and Live Scan fingerprinting. EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY (EEO) EMPLOYER The City of Berkeley is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. All employment actions shall be administered regardless of race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, physical or mental disability or medical condition, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy, political affiliation, veterans’ status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law. DISASTER SERVICE WORKER All City employees are required to provide services as Disaster Service Workers in the event of an emergency/disaster.
The City of Milpitas is home to family-centered communities that embrace cultural diversity, quality schooling, and conveniently located neighborhood parks and shopping centers. Milpitas has an ethnically diverse array of retail and restaurants, and major regional retail destinations that attract shoppers from beyond the city. With over 40,800 jobs and 39,600 employed residents, Milpitas is a jobs rich community and is often called the “Crossroads of Silicon Valley”. Once a small agricultural town and later a stopover point for travelers between Oakland and San Jose, Milpitas has blossomed into one of the world’s premier computer and semiconductor producers. To learn more, visit This Is Milpitas. The ideal candidate for Plan Check Engineer with our Office of Building Safety will possess strong technical background in structural engineering and/or building life safety in a wide range of residential and commercial projects. This candidate will be proactive, customer service-oriented, and a team player and demonstrates effective communication skills. Analytical skills, initiative, independent judgment, along with strong time management and attention to detail, are key attributes for success in this role. Under general supervision, the Plan Check Engineer performs plan examination to ensure compliance with building codes, applicable laws, State regulations, City ordinances, acceptable engineering practices, and nationally recognized standards; assists in permit processing and confers with field inspectors in resolving code-related problems. DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS This is a journey-level classification where the incumbents possess the applicable educational and training background, appropriate certificates and licenses in the field, as well as practical work experience. SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED Receives general supervision from the Plan Review Manager. May exercise indirect supervision over technical staff. For the complete Job Description, please click here: Plan Check Engineer Examples of Duties Duties may include but are not limited to the following: Perform independent plans examinations on building and other disciplines concerning the construction or alteration of industrial, commercial, and residential structures to determine compliance with applicable codes, laws, and regulations. Check complex plans and calculations to determine loading and adequacy of design to meet earthquake, wind load, and structural requirements. Perform independent analysis as required. Answer questions and provide information to architects, engineers, contractors, and owners regarding building, , mechanical, plumbing, electrical code requirements, application of various codes, and structural requirements. Check plans for conformance to non-structural items such as building classification and occupancy, egress, accessibility, energy conservation regulations, green building code requirements, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical code requirements. Conduct field inspections as needed and advise Building Inspectors regarding structural and other code-related issues arising in the field. Train technical counter staff to check plans for completeness. Prepare and maintain reports, correspondence, records, and files regarding plan check activities. Coordinate plan reviews with other departments as necessary. Stay informed regarding building codes, new building construction methods and materials. Attend and participate in professional group meetings, stay abreast of new trends and innovations in the assigned filed. Perform related duties as assigned. Typical Qualifications EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION Experience: Two (2) years of responsible experience performing structural and architectural plan check reviews. Education: Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in civil or structural engineering, architecture, or a related field. License or Certificate: Must possess professional registration as an Architect, Civil, or Engineer in the State of California; Must possess or obtain an International Code Council (ICC) Plans Examiner Certification within 12 months of appointment; Possess and maintain a valid California Driver's License. DESIRABLE EXPERIENCE Civil and/or Structural Engineering REQUIRED DOCUMENTS Please submit a complete job application online, and upload the following documents in the Attachements Section of the application. Verification of certifications will be required prior to being hired for this position. Contact the recruiter, Jasmin Ramos, at hrrecruitment@milpitas.gov with any questions. Resume or CV Cover Letter Copies of all relevant License/s and Certification/s CONFLICT OF INTEREST Incumbents in this position are required to file a Conflict of Interest Statement upon assuming office, annually, and upon leaving office, in accordance with Resolution No. 8833. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS Essential duties require the following physical abilities and work environment: General office environment; sit and/or stand for long periods of time, repetitive keyboarding; reach, squat, lift, and carry up to 25 pounds; able to travel to various locations within and outside the City of Milpitas. Supplemental Information THE FIRST APPLICATION REVIEW DATE IS JUNE 26, 2026 SELECTION PROCESS The selection process will consist of an evaluation of the applicant's training and experience based on the application and responses to the Supplemental Questionnaire. Only the candidates whose backgrounds best match the position will be invited to proceed in the selection process. Additional phases of the selection process will consist of one or more interviews. Please note: The examination process (including dates) may be changed as deemed necessary by the Human Resources Department. Meeting the minimum requirements listed in this job description does not guarantee advancement in subsequent phases of the selection process. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of Milpitas will provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the Human Resources Department. The City of Milpitas is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
JOIN REDMOND! The City of Redmond is a thriving, culturally diverse community and home to over 80,000 residents. Redmond is the hub of an array of commerce and industry ranging from technology, aerospace, and gaming to biomedical and innovation start-ups. In this role, you will represent the city, and our values of service, integrity, accountability, belonging and stewardship. The Development Services Division within the Planning and Community Development Department is expanding to meet the City of Redmond’s growing development and infrastructure needs. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced stormwater engineer ready to take the next step in their career and make a meaningful impact in a dynamic public-sector environment. The Senior Stormwater Engineer will apply strong technical expertise in stormwater design, management, and regulatory compliance while supporting the review and delivery of complex development projects. This position offers the opportunity to work collaboratively across departments, provide technical leadership and mentorship, and help shape innovative and sustainable stormwater solutions that support Redmond’s continued growth. Join a team where your engineering expertise will directly contribute to protecting the community, improving infrastructure, and building a resilient stormwater system for the City’s future. Note: As part of the application process, we are asking all candidates to submit a cover letter and resume as part of their application. ROLE & RESPONSIBILITIES Review developer applications and project plans for compliance with critical areas, grading and stormwater regulations including LID design and implementation, applicable standards, policies, codes and regulations compliance. Review, approve, process, and manage projects for permit approval. Schedule and lead the Civil Coordinated Review process from start to finish. Participate in public hearings and meetings. Attend preconstruction conferences and represent the division in internal design and construction meetings. Respond to internal and external customer questions regarding Stormwater, Critical Areas and LID issues. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Principles, practices and methods of public works design and construction of Stormwater management systems. Low impact development design and construction techniques. Ecology SWMMWW (2012, 2019, 2024), the NPDES municipal Stormwater permit. Ecology approved runoff treatment technologies. GIS, and Stormwater modeling software. Experience in EnerGov, the permitting software used by Redmond or other permitting software preferred. Ability to Communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing. Work independently and as part of a team. Problem-solve by identifying multiple solutions. Adapt modern engineering principles, methods, techniques and standards to the design, construction and inspection of projects. Interpret and explain technical information to a variety of audiences in a non-technical manner. Manage developer and interagency financial agreements. Organize and prioritize workload and projects. Effectively lead a team or committee. QUALIFICATIONS Education and Experience Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering or related field from an accredited college or university. Seven (7) years engineering experience which includes three years of project administration and management responsibilities. Any equivalent combination of education, experience and training that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. Licenses and Certificates Engineer-Senior requires a Professional Engineer's License. Valid Washington State Driver's License required Other This class description describes the general nature of the work performed, representative duties as well as the typical qualifications needed for acceptable performance. It is not intended to be a complete list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of the job. Please review the Engineer – Senior description for more information about the knowledge, skills, abilities, working conditions, and physical requirements. BENEFITS Our employees earn competitive wages and enjoy an exceptional benefits package that includes: MEDICAL INSURANCE - Choice of two plans for employees and their eligible dependents: Premera or Kaiser Permanente. All employee healthcare premiums paid for by the City of Redmond. PRESCRIPTION DRUG INSURANCE - Included with each medical plan DENTAL INSURANCE - For employees and their eligible dependents VISION INSURANCE - For employees and their eligible dependents OTHER INSURANCE - Life, accidental death & dismemberment insurance, short and long-term disability, optional employee-paid voluntary life insurance FLEXIBLE SPENDING ACCOUNTS - For tax savings on healthcare and dependent care expenses PAID VACATION & HOLIDAYS – with (13) paid holidays per year EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (EAP) RETIREMENT PLANS - Department of Retirement Systems (DRS) plus additional options that include: Municipal Employees Benefit Trust (Social Security replacement plan) and MetLife 457 Plan Annual COLA adjustments Annual merit increases of up to 5%
About the Town of Leesburg and Nature of Work Do you want to apply your expertise for a cause you can feel good about? Do you want to work for an organization that wants you to grow with it and offers tuition reimbursement, certification training, and a chance to learn about multiple industries? Come work for the Town of Leesburg, hometown of the 21st century! Located 35 miles west of the nation's capital in the heart of DC's Wine Country, you'll enjoy a vibrant and authentic community with "big city" amenities. The Town of Leesburg strongly encourages innovation, promotes career development, and offers excellent benefits to employees. Benefits include membership to the Town's full-service recreation center, enrollment into the Virginia Retirement System, excellent healthcare insurance, and other fringe benefits. Who We're Looking For If you identify with the following descriptions, then you may be perfect for the Town of Leesburg: Creative problem solver Proactive self-starter Life-long learner Strong team player Passionate about excellent customer service Positive, can-do attitude Effective communicator Desire to impart knowledge to others "Early adopter" of new technologies What You'll Be Doing This position requires senior level engineering work within the Department of Capital Projects with the primary function of managing design and construction for the Town’s capital improvement program. Work involves managing engineering consultants and contractors, reviewing engineering and construction plans for compliance with codes, regulations, Town standards, and best construction practices, and working with consultants regarding plan approval for the capital improvement program. For more detailed job descriptions, please visit the Town's Job Descriptions page. Required Qualifications Bachelor’s Degree in civil engineering or a related field or equivalent combination of education and experience. Four years’ experience in civil engineering design or construction. Must have a valid driver’s license and a safe driving record. Preferred Qualifications Master’s Degree in Civil Engineering or related field. Four to ten years’ experience in design and construction of civil engineering projects. Professional Engineer; Certified Construction Manager. Bilingual in English/Spanish. The Town offers competitive compensation, affordable health insurance coverage, participation in the Virginia Retirement System, an optional 457(b) retirement plan with a Town matching contribution, flexible spending accounts, voluntary benefits, employee assistance program (EAP), membership to the Town's full-service recreation center, an optional payroll Roth IRA, and generous paid time off. For more information on the Town's robust benefits package, please visit the Town's Employee Benefits page. ADA/EOE
Job Description Location: 5205 E & C Engineering Pay Grade: A22 FLSA Status: Exempt Under limited supervision, this position assists the Director of Engineering & Construction in managing and overseeing the Engineering & Construction Department, including but not limited to supervising and managing employees, making recommendations and decisions, managing projects, and developing work plans and schedules. Serves as the Director of Engineering & Construction in their absence of the Engineering & Construction Director. Essential Job Functions Implements the project management for the design and construction of public projects. Executes design/engineering study professional services contracts except those projects under consideration by the customer/ business units whereby coordination with customers is expected. Provides technical assistance to city state, and reviews and approves, design, construction contracts, and all phases of construction contract management. Confers with consultants, engineers, architects, contractors, and other agencies in planning and implementing improvements or new construction projects. Oversees review of contracts prior to bidding, evaluates bids received and makes recommendations for award Ensures application of City, State, and Federal permits for construction of infrastructure; facilitates operational permits for infrastructure projects; Determines applicable codes, regulations, and requirements for assigned projects. Attends public meetings to provide information to the public; provides public information on public works engineering design, construction, and maintenance programs and projects by preparing press releases and giving speeches. Plans, coordinates and supervises staff and administers all daily activities and personnel of the Engineering, Stormwater & Construction Divisions in accordance with all applicable laws, rules, regulations and direction from City government. Assists in the preparation and monitoring of the annual budget. Implements decisions and determinations as directed by the Director of Engineering/Construction. Assists in the formulation of long- and short-range plans for the department; coordinates with other departments on the work, planning, design, and construction of public infrastructure. Researches, reviews, analyzes, recommends, and implements special projects. Prepares reports; writes memoranda and correspondence. Performs the duties of the Engineering & Construction Director in his/her absence. Performs other duties as assigned. Minimum Education and Experience Requires a Bachelor's Degree in civil engineering, public works engineering or a closely related engineering field, supplemented by five (5) years of progressively responsible management and supervisory experience in multiple public works divisions; or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities. Possession of or ability to readily obtain a valid Class D Oklahoma Driver's License. Registration as a Professional Engineer in the State of Oklahoma, or licensed Architect in the State of Oklahoma, or ability to acquire such certification within one year of employment. Registration as a Certified Floodplain Manager (CFM) is preferred. Physical Requirements KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES Knowledge of personnel laws, policies, and regulations. Knowledge of relevant city, state, and federal laws, regulations, and policies. Knowledge of the development and administration of municipal budgets or other relative budgets. Knowledge of governmental budget procedures. Thorough knowledge of contract management and cost analysis. Knowledge of engineering and construction practices and procedures. Thorough knowledge of principles and practices of civil engineering with concentration on engineering design construction, and maintenance of public and/or private infrastructure. Thorough knowledge of principles and practices of effective administration and supervision. Knowledge of modern office practices and procedures. Skill in the use of computers and various software programs. Skill in the training and supervision of personnel. Skill to plan, assign, delegate, and direct work of administrative and supervisory personnel. Skill to develop long-term plans and programs and to evaluate work accomplishments. Skill to work effectively with elected officials, department heads, representatives of other agencies, city employees, and the general public. Skill in effective oral and written communication. An offer of employment is contingent on the verification of credentials and other information required by the City of Broken Arrow policies, including the successful completion of a background check and drug/physical screening. City of Broken Arrow is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity at all levels of the workforce. Employment selection and related decisions are made without regard to sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, race, age, disability, religion, national origin, ethnicity, color, genetic information, marital status, or any other protected class. Broken Arrow is committed to reasonable accommodation, and a smoke free/drug free workplace.
Come Join the City of Bellevue! Please fill out your application as fully as possible. The City evaluates candidates based on the information provided in the online application only. Do not submit resumes and cover letters. Read the "Hiring Process" section below to learn more. New hires typically receive between minimum and midpoint, however, we may go slightly higher based on experience, internal equity and market. Job Summary About the role Help renew and modernize essential water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure that serves our community. Bellevue Utilities manages $3.5B in assets and more than 1,500 miles of pipelines, with a long-range program to invest approximately $2.4B in renewal and replacement. You will contribute directly to projects delivered through our Capital Investment Plan. Why Bellevue Utilities Impact at scale. Annual construction budgets typically total $25M to $35M across lines of business and growing. Learn by doing. Collaborate with inspectors, engineers, project managers, and maintenance staff on pump stations, reservoirs, culverts, pipelines, and rehabilitation projects. Modern tools. Work in Autodesk Build, Bluebeam, and SharePoint with organized contract documentation. Growth and mentoring. You will work alongside experienced inspectors and engineers for hands-on mentoring, structured onboarding, and clear development paths to project and construction management roles within the Utilities Engineering Division. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Construction management and contract administration Interpret plans and specifications, assess proposed deviations, and quantify schedule and budget impacts. Manage contract submittals, RFIs, and change orders, coordinating responses and tracking timelines. Refers complex submittals and RFI’s to Project Manager and Engineer of Record. Support analysis of change orders and claims with the Construction Manager, Inspection Supervisor, and legal advisors. Field and stakeholder collaboration Facilitate resolutions when site conditions differ from plans so work can proceed without delays. Coordinate meetings among contractors, inspectors, consultants, City staff, utilities, agencies, and property owners. Investigate and resolve citizen concerns and prepare required environmental reports. Tools and documentation Set up projects in Autodesk Build and maintain Risk Register, RFI, Change Order, and Issues logs. Prepare notices such as Contract Duration and Substantial Completion and maintain project documentation on SharePoint. Standards and continuous improvement Review plans and specifications for compliance with standards and good construction practices. Recommend improvements to codes, standards, procedures, and templates. Supervision Received and Exercised This position reports to the Construction Services Manager and works independently to resovle most problems while informing the manager of unusual or controversial problems that require assistance. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Engineering, or Construction Management. Two or more years of related professional experience in engineering or construction. Engineer-in-Training (EIT) or Professional Engineer (PE) preferred. Prior design or inspection experience in water, wastewater, and stormwater systems preferred. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Apply civil engineering principles and construction methods for public works utility systems. Read and interpret complex drawings, permits, and specifications and communicate clearly to technical and non-technical audiences. Perform quantity computations, support payment verification, and understand basic surveying and layout. Possess strong and effective written and oral communication skills in both technical and non-technical manners. Knowledge of environmental requirements and regulations relating to the construction of water, wastewater and stormwater systems. Learn and use Autodesk Build, Bluebeam, SharePoint, and MS Office efficiently. Collaborate and solve problems with contractors, property owners, agencies, and City teams. Possess a high level of discipline and integrity and strong customer service skills. Supplemental Information Work environment and schedule Office setting about 90 to 95 percent, field work about 5 to 10 percent. Typical hours are 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM, Monday to Friday. Selection process Application materials will be reviewed for job-related qualifications. Selected candidates will be invited to panel interviews and references will be checked. Flexible/Hybrid Working A hybrid work schedule is available for this position after an orientation period. Remote work for this position is subject to the department's operational needs and will be discussed with candidates during the selection process. Full-time remote work is not an available option. Once hired, employees must reside in the State of Washington and within reasonable commuting distance to Bellevue City Hall. HIRING PROCESS The City evaluates candidates based on the information provided in the online application only. Do not submit resumes and cover letters. To evaluate all candidates fairly and equitably, the City will make all applicants anonymous when we are screening the applications. We will redact information from our application such as your name, address, and other demographics. To help us, please complete the online application form as fully as possible. Answer the Supplemental Questions when requested which can be found on the Questions tab of the Job posting. We do not accept resumes and cover letters during the anonymous application screening stage, unless otherwise stated in the job description. Applicants advancing to the next stage may be required to provide a cover letter, resume, writing sample, and references. CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT All candidates will be required to establish employment authorization and identity at the time of hire. The City is not able to sponsor work visas. All positions require the completion of references checks, including at least one prior supervisor. Some positions may require completion of a criminal background check prior to start employment Some positions may require obtaining a commercial driver's license (CDL), licensures, or additional certifications. At the City of Bellevue, you'll be part of a team committed to providing exceptional customer service, upholding the public interest and advancing the community vision. The six essential and enduring principles that guide our individual actions, our interactions, and our decision making in the City of Bellevue organization is: Exceptional Public Service, Stewardship, Commitment to Employees, Integrity, Innovation, and Diversity, Equity & Inclusion. You'll work in an environment that is innovative, collaborative, future focused, and committed to excellence. Bellevue welcomes the world. Our diversity is our strength. We embrace the future while respecting our past. It's what makes the City of Bellevue an exciting place to work, live, and explore. Have we piqued your interest yet? Come join our team! The City of Bellevue supports workplace diversity. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, genetic information, disability, age, veteran status, or any other protected status. Persons needing assistance with the application process may call the Human Resources Office, at 425-452-6838 or recruiting@bellevuewa.gov. If you are invited to participate in the selection process and need ADA accommodations, please notify HR before you are scheduled for an interview or testing. The City of Bellevue participates in the E-Verify program. Learn more about the E-Verify program. https://www.e-verify.gov/sites/default/files/IER_RightToWorkPoster.pdf (Download PDF reader) https://www.e-verify.gov/sites/default/files/everify/posters/IER_RighttoWorkPosterES.pdf (Download PDF reader) For any technical difficulties with your application, please contact the NEOGOV support line at 855-524-5627. ** Please be sure to check your junk folder for any messages that may be sent to you about this recruitment.**
Provides high-level professional and technical project engineering and management services leading a multi-disciplinary project management team in the planning and implementation of the city's capital improvement program from project inception through completion of construction. Anticipated starting salary for this position may be up to mid-point depending on candidate’s experience and internal equity. The full salary range is listed above and mid-point for this position is $64.52/hour or $134,201.60/annually. Please note: Be sure to check your email junk/spam folders regularly for possible notifications and/or self-schedule interview invitations from Governmentjobs. Minimum Qualifications Education and Experience: Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Architecture or Construction Management, or a related field from an accredited educational institution. Seven years professional level public or private infrastructure project management experience and/or building projects. Five years of experience as responsible project manager. Any equivalent combination of education and job-related experience that meets the minimum qualifications may be substituted. Licensing, Certifications and Other Requirements: Must possess, at time of application, and maintain a valid, unrestricted driver's license with no major citations within the past 36 months prior to the start date. The Arizona Motor Vehicle Department requires that out-of-state driver's licenses must be surrendered within 10 days of relocating to the State of Arizona. Note: Graduated Driver’s Licenses are considered restricted. Current registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) in the State of Arizona, or by the technical board of another state with the ability to obtain reciprocity within six months. Every person employed by the City of Scottsdale shall reside in the State of Arizona during his or her active employment by the City, regardless of whether the employee is approved to remote work. Other pertinent licenses and/or certifications may be required of some positions depending on department/section assignment. Essential Functions Click here to view the job description and full list of Essential Functions. Work Environment/Physical Demands Click here to view the job description and full list of Work Environment/Physical Demands. Benefits Highlights: The City of Scottsdale offers a comprehensive benefits package including: 12 Paid Holidays, which includes 1 Floating Holiday Vacation Accrual; starts at 10.3 hours/month Sick Leave Accrual; 8 hours/month Medical (which includes behavioral health coverage), Dental and Vision Benefits City Paid Basic Life Insurance (equal to one times employee annual salary); option of Supplemental Life Insurance Tuition Reimbursement; $2,500/year Participation in the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS) Defined benefit plan with mandatory employer and employee contributions currently at 11.98% which includes a Long-Term Disability benefit Supplemental Retirement Plans through Nationwide 457 Pet Insurance Bilingual pay compensation Employer contribution of $10 per pay period to employee's PEHP (Post-Employment Health Plan) account Please visit the Human Resources and Benefits Information page for more information. Selection Process: The application and supplemental questions are essential components of the selection process and must be completed in their entirety for your candidacy to be considered. Please ensure that each section is fully completed and all questions are answered thoroughly. Do not substitute responses with “See Resume.” Incomplete answers, omissions, or partial information may result in disqualification from further consideration. Applicants whose education, training, and experience most closely align with the requirements of the position may be invited to participate in a selection process, which may include a panel interview. Candidates selected to move forward will be required to successfully complete a post-offer, pre-employment background screening, which may include the following: Fingerprinting search of the national FBI Database Criminal Background screening · Drug Screen 39-Month Motor Vehicle Department Records Check The City of Scottsdale reserves the right to change this process at any time, potentially without advance notice. PLEASE NOTE: Years of experience are calculated based on a full-time schedule of 2,080 hours per year and a part-time schedule of 1,040 hours per year. Work experience may at times substitute for education on a year-for-year basis; however, depending on the job classification, education may not be used as a substitute for required work experience. EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY: It is the policy of the city to provide employment opportunities to all persons based solely on ability, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability. When advised, reasonable accommodations will be made in order for an “otherwise qualified applicant" with a disability to participate in any phase of the recruitment process. Please contact Human Resources to request an accommodation. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation by contacting HR Receptionist at 480-312-2491. Requests should be made 24 hours in advance or as early as possible to allow time to arrange the accommodation. For TTY users, the Arizona Relay Service (1-800-367-8939) may contact HR Receptionist at 480-312-2491. This position description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the position change.





