Deputy Director - Engineering & Maintenance

Position Information

Sonoma Public Infrastructure (SPI) seeks an experienced professional to manage the Engineering & Maintenance Division!

Starting salary up to $111.81/hour ($233,360/year) and a competitive total compensation package!*^

Please click here to view our color brochure.

Please note : This position requires a valid certificate of registration as a Civil Engineer issued by the State of California Board of Registration for Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors.

What We Offer

Working at the County of Sonoma offers expansive opportunities for growth and development, the ability to be a part of a challenging and rewarding work environment, and the satisfaction of knowing you're working to better our communities. You can also look forward to flexible work arrangements and excellent benefits* including:

• Hybrid Telework - A schedule that meets the needs of our staff, department operations, and the communities we serve may be available depending on the assignment
• Salary Advancement - A salary increase after 1,040 hours (6 months when working full-time) for good work performance; eligibility for a salary increase for good performance every year thereafter, until reaching the top of the salary range
• Paid Time Off - Competitive vacation and sick leave accruals, 12 paid holidays, and an additional 8 floating holiday hours per year
• Staff Development/Wellness Pay - Annual benefit allowances of up to $2,000 and ongoing education/training opportunities
• County Paid Health Premium Contributions - 100% premium contribution for the majority of employee-only and employee + family health plan options
• Post-Retirement Health Reimbursement Arrangement - County contributions to help fund post-retirement employee health insurance/benefits
• Retirement - A pension fully integrated with Social Security
• Incentive Retirement Savings Plan (IRSP) and 457 Voluntary Deferred Compensation - 3%/1.9% of salary County contribution to a 401(a), in addition to the County matching up to 1% of base salary in 401(a), based upon employee contribution
• Paid Parental Leave - May be eligible for up to 8 weeks (320 hours) after 12 months of County employment
• Student Loan Debt Relief - County employees may be eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness through the U.S. Department of Education

^Hiring Incentives

Sonoma Public Infrastructure is currently offering a $25,000 signing bonus paid over three installments during the first three years of service. Other incentives which may be offered, if applicable, include:

• Advanced paid vacation and/or sick leave (up to 2 weeks of vacation and/or two weeks of sick leave)
• Relocation reimbursement up to $10,000

About the Position

Reporting to the Director of Public Infrastructure, the Deputy Director of Engineering and Maintenance directly supervises the Engineering Division Manager, Road Operations Division Manager, and an Engineering Technical Writer, and is responsible for assisting in the formulation of SPI’s long-range goals through the development and implementation of policies, procedures, and plans. Additionally, the Deputy Director is also responsible for reviewing and evaluating public infrastructure programs to anticipate future needs; coordinating the activities of their assigned divisions; and assisting in the preparation of the departmental budget. They develop, oversee, and manage Board Items, presentations, and other documents in support of key departmental objectives and act as the main point of contact for Board inquiries related to the County’s road system.

The ideal candidate for this position is a highly skilled, creative, and innovative leader who is excited by the prospect of change, and the challenge of managing a large variety of complex public infrastructure projects. The ideal candidate will have proficiency in all areas of engineering, road design, traffic, land development, maintenance, and right of way. In addition, a strong political acumen is desired as this position is required to interact successfully with executives, elected officials, department heads, employees, and community members. This position also needs to have skills to build, train, and manage high performing teams and a demonstrated ability to successfully work with a diverse group of individuals, both internal and external. Emotional intelligence as well as strong management skills is a necessity.

The individual selected for this position will possess the following competencies, skills, and abilities:

• A thorough understanding of the current issues related to California transportation, public works budgets, and operations
• Experience performing project budgeting, financial management, and revenue generation duties and responsibilities
• Expertise in the fundamentals of all types of project management and delivery methods, including a thorough knowledge of the principles of federally funded projects
• Demonstrated experience developing creative and alternative solutions to administrative, management, and fiscal challenges
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with a proven ability to effectively manage supervisors, lead teams, and collaborate with multiple agencies and the public
• Exceptional analytical and problem solving skills, and process improvement abilities
• Superior knowledge and facility with Microsoft Office software

About the Department

Leading the way in maintaining a safe and sustainable community through stewardship and innovation.

Sonoma Public Infrastructure (SPI) plans, builds, manages, and maintains the County of Sonoma's investment in critical services and quality infrastructure. SPI's multiple Divisions are dedicated to providing construction and maintenance services throughout the community:

• Engineering - Sonoma County Engineers work to ensure that County infrastructure is designed for optimal safety and efficiency. Our engineers work in many disciplines, including solid waste, roads, water systems, bridges, traffic, transportation, transit, and facilities.
• Administration - Provides administrative, fiscal, and human resources support for the department.
• Airport - Operates and maintains the Charles M. Schulz - Sonoma County Airport, a full service, commercial airport with facilities for airline passenger service and other operations including air cargo, private and corporate flights, military, search and rescue, firefighting, law enforcement, and pilot training.
• Integrated Waste (Refuse) - Provides ecologically sound solid waste disposal, natural gas recovery, recycling, community hazardous waste disposal, and composting programs to the County.
• Roads - Our mission is to design, construction, and maintenance of all roads, bridges, and minor drainage systems within the County road system, totaling 1,349 road miles, to keep roads open and safely passable for the public.
• Transit - Sonoma County Transit provides local and intercity public transportation throughout most of the major communities in Sonoma County, as well as
  connections to Novato and San Rafael, in Marin County.
• Integrated Waste and Water Systems - Delivers crucial services, including management of water systems for Fitch Mountain, Freestone, Jenner, and Salmon Creek, ensuring efficient operations. Our Integrated Waste Division leads sustainable waste management, owning the Central Disposal Site for comprehensive waste processing.
• Fleet Operations - The County is committed to managing and conserving natural resources and equitable services through operating a vehicle and equipment fleet program that is environmentally and economically sustainable, in its design, construction, and operation.
• Facilities Development Management - Our mission is to plan, design, and manage County facility construction projects which meet user needs and provide safe, healthy, and aesthetic environments in a sensible, cost-effective manner.
• Purchasing - Is responsible for the procurement of goods and services required for County operations. The Division also executes contracts for professional services and assists departments in contract review.
• Other Services - Includes administration of several small districts including street lighting, permanent roads, water, and assessment districts. This section also includes a Special Projects Division, which includes district formation, Public Educational, and Governmental Access funds, Cal American Water Company, and maintenance for small water systems.

Discover Sonoma County: Where Work Meets Paradise

Nestled in the heart of Northern California Wine Country, Sonoma County is the largest county in the North Bay region of the San Francisco Bay Area, covering over 1,600 square miles. It is located in the northernmost part of the Bay Area, about 30 miles north of San Francisco, and is bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the west, Marin County and San Pablo Bay to the south, and Solano, Napa, and Lake Counties to the east. Sonoma County is known for amazing wines and legendary vineyards, as well as organic produce and sustainable farming. The county is also home to the scenic Russian River, a popular tourist destination where residents and visitors enjoy kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and swimming.

Encompassing nine cities and five federally recognized tribes, more than a third of Sonoma County’s almost 500,000 residents live in the City of Santa Rosa, the county seat, and a quarter in unincorporated areas. Downtown areas such as Santa Rosa, Petaluma, Sonoma, Healdsburg, and Guerneville offer a mix of historic architecture, boutique shopping, and gourmet dining, providing a small-town feel with modern amenities. Festivals, farmers’ markets, and cultural events celebrate local talent and traditions. The county enjoys a diverse economy that includes agriculture, a world-class wine region, technology, healthcare, tourism, manufacturing, craft brewing, retail, and professional services.

While the latest census data shows that Sonoma County’s proportion of white residents remains higher than the national average, the share of residents who identify as Hispanic or Latino also ranks higher than the national average, making up more than a quarter of residents (29% in 2022). 37% of County residents identify as Black, Indigenous, and People of Color. Education levels in Sonoma County exceed the national average and the county’s public school system ranks considerably high within the state, including innovative charter schools and high-quality secondary education options at Santa Rosa Junior College and Sonoma State University. In 2022, the median household income in Sonoma County was $99,266. Although home prices reflect the value of living in an area that offers abundant amenities, the prices of Sonoma County homes remain among the more affordable in the greater Bay Area.

Visit http://sonomacounty.ca.gov and https://sonomacountyconnections.org for additional information about Sonoma County - the place to live, work, and build your career legacy.

Named by Forbes Magazine as one of America’s 500 Best Midsized Employers in 2022, 2023, and 2024 (one of only two government agencies in California to make the 2024 list), the County of Sonoma has a mission to enrich the quality of life in Sonoma County through superior public services. Sonoma County is a general law county. The primary governing body is the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors, which consists of five members elected by the residents of their respective districts on a nonpartisan basis. These supervisors serve four-year terms, during which they are responsible for making policy decisions, adopting budgets, overseeing the County’s departments and agencies, and discussing and deciding on matters ranging from public safety to infrastructure development. The Board of Supervisors is fully committed to a mission and vision that values high-quality services to support and enrich the community, strong leadership, engaged citizen participation, transparency and accuracy in information, and efficient and fiscally sustainable government. The Sonoma County 2021-2026 Strategic Plan is based on the following pillars: Climate Action and Resilience, Healthy and Safe Communities, Racial Equity and Social Justice, Resilient Infrastructure, and Organizational Excellence. For more information, visit www.socostrategicplan.org . The County provides a full range of services to the community through 27 departments and agencies. The fiscal year 20242025 budget is approximately $2.46 billion, with 4,462 full-time equivalent (FTE) staff positions.

Sonoma Public Infrastructure is recruiting to fill a Deputy Director - Engineering & Maintenance position. This employment list may also be used to fill future full-time, part-time, or extra-help (temporary) positions as they occur during the active status of the list. Qualified County employees who wish to be considered for future positions should consider applying to this recruitment.


*Salary is negotiable within the established range. Benefits described herein do not represent a contract and may be changed without notice. Additional information can be found in the Salary Resolution (SalRes) and our Employee Benefits Directory .

APPLICATION SUBMISSIONS REQUIRE THE SUPPLEMENTAL QUESTIONNAIRE BE COMPLETED.



Minimum Qualifications

License: Possession of a valid certificate of registration as a Civil Engineer issued by the State of California Board of Registration for Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors is required. Possession of a valid driver's license at the appropriate level, including special endorsements as required by the State of California, may be required depending upon assignment to perform the essential job functions of the position.

Experience: Extensive professional experience which would provide an opportunity to acquire the knowledge and abilities stated herein. Normally, five years of full-time, professional engineering experience, including at least two years in an administrative or supervisory capacity, would provide such opportunity.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Extensive knowledge of: the planning, design, and construction of large-scale public works projects; the principles, practices and techniques of civil engineering; state and federal laws relative to the planning and development of public works projects.

Thorough knowledge of: the principles and practices of personnel and fiscal administration, including the budgetary process, principles of supervision, staff development and training; the principles and practices of contract negotiation and administration; economic research and feasibility as it relates to public works projects.

Considerable knowledge of: English syntax and grammar.

Ability to: plan, organize and direct the activities of a large staff of highly specialized professional, technical, maintenance, and clerical staff; establish and maintain harmonious working relationships with coworkers, subordinates, representatives of other governmental agencies, private contractors, private organizations, consulting engineers and architects, and the general public; prepare and implement administrative and fiscal policies and controls; coordinate divisional program activities with other Department Divisions, and other public entities; determine organizational needs and functional changes in order to improve efficiency and effectiveness; provide effective leadership in the development of new or improved procedures; analyze and review staff reports and recommendations and to give constructive criticism; effectively assemble, organize and present in written and/or oral form, reports containing alternative solutions and recommendations regarding specific resources, plans and policies; speak before groups regarding department plans, projects, and functions.

Selection Procedure & Some Helpful Tips When Applying

• Your application information and your responses to the supplemental questions are evaluated and taken into consideration throughout the entire selection process.
• You should list all employers and positions held within the last ten years in the work history section of your application. Be as thorough as possible when responding to the supplemental questions.
• You may include history beyond ten years if related to the position for which you are applying. If you held multiple positions with one employer, list out each position separately.
• Failure to follow these instructions may impact your competitiveness in this process or may result in disqualification.

Please visit Getting a Job with the County of Sonoma to review more detailed information about the hiring process, including the application process, examination steps, and department selection process.

APPLICATION SUBMISSIONS REQUIRE THE SUPPLEMENTAL QUESTIONNAIRE BE COMPLETED.

Responses to supplemental questions will be used in assessing minimum qualifications. Please provide specific and detailed responses of a reasonable length to allow for a thorough assessment of your qualifications. Responses that state, "See Resume" or "See Application" may be considered insufficient.

The selection procedure will consist of the following examination:

An Application & Supplemental Questionnaire Appraisal Examination (weight 100%).Each application and supplemental questionnaire will be thoroughly evaluated for satisfaction of minimum qualifications and relevance of educational coursework, training, experience, knowledge, and abilities that relate to this position. Candidates possessing the most appropriate job-related qualifications will be placed on an employment list and referred to the department for selection interviews.

This position is open until filled. First review of candidates will be done by May 12, 2025.

First round County interviews are anticipated for the week of June 2, 2025.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

A background investigation is required prior to employment. Candidates referred to departments for a selection interview are typically required to sign authorization and release forms enabling such an investigation. Failure to sign prescribed forms will result in the candidate not being considered further for that vacancy. Reference information will not be made available to applicants.

Additional requirements, such as successful completion of a physical exam, drug screen, etc., may apply, depending on the duties and responsibilities of the position. If you receive a conditional job offer for the position, the requirements upon which the offer is contingent will be outlined in the conditional job letter. You may also review the Job Classification Screening Schedule to determine the requirements for this position.

HOW TO APPLY

To apply for this exciting and special career opportunity, please go to: www.yourpath2sonomacounty.org to submit an online job application, answer the supplemental questions, and include a resume and cover letter that that should include years and months of employment, pertinent accomplishments, and why you are interested in the position.
Paper applications may be submitted by person, fax (707-565-3770), email, or through the mail. All applications and appropriate supplemental information as outlined in the job bulletin must be RECEIVED by the time and date specified on the first page of this job announcement. Continuous recruitments may close without notice at any time that a sufficient number of qualified applications have been received. Applications received after the recruitment closes will not be accepted.

For additional information, please contact:

Frank Rojas

Koff & Associates, A Gallagher Company

(510) 495-0448

Frank_Rojas@ajg.com

Website: https://koffassociates.com/

The County of Sonoma values diversity and is dedicated to creating a workplace environment that provides individuals with a sense of belonging. We are committed to having a diverse workforce that is representative of the communities we serve. The County is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer where all aspects of employment are based on merit, competence, performance, and business need.

HR Analyst: DP
HR Technician: EV

IMPORTANT NOTE: Benefits described herein do not apply to Extra Help positions.

COUNTY OF SONOMA BENEFITS: MANAGEMENT*

These are some of the excellent benefits the County offers:

Paid Time Off :Competitive vacation accrual and sick leave accruals; additional management leave annually; 12 paid holidays, and an additional 8 floating holiday hours per year; and may be eligible for up to 8 weeks (320 hours) of Paid Parental Leave after 12 months of County employment.

Health Plan :Choose from nine health plans (three HMOs, three deductible HMOs, and three HSA-qualifying plans) with a generousCounty contribution to the premium (the contribution amount varies by bargaining unit). For more information, please see the appropriate MOU.

Retirement :Fully integrated with Social Security.For more information regarding eligibility, retirement contributions, and reciprocity with prior public service, please visit https://scretire.org/active-/-deferred/when-you-are-hired .

IRS 457 Plan :Pre-tax employee contribution up to the IRS annual maximum.

Retiree Medical :County contribution to a Health Reimbursement Arrangement to help fund post-retirement employee health insurance/benefits.

Student Loan Debt Relief :County employees may be eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness through the U.S. Department of Education.

Plus excellent dental, vision, disability, life insurance, professional development, and more.

For answers to specific questions regarding the employment process and more details about benefits or retirement, please contact Human Resources at (707) 565-2331.Additional details about benefit and compensation packages can be found in the MOUs located at https://sonomacounty.ca.gov/administrative-support-and-fiscal-services/human-resources/divisions-and-units/employee-relations/labor-agreements-and-salary-resolution . For specific information about health and welfare benefits including plan options, coverage, and premium amounts go to https://sonomacounty.ca.gov/administrative-support-and-fiscal-services/human-resources or, contact the Human Resources' Risk Management-Benefits Office at benefits@sonoma-county.org or (707) 565-2900.

*IMPORTANT NOTES: Benefits described herein do not represent a contract and may be changed without notice.

Closing Date/Time: Continuous

• 

• County of Sonoma

• 707-565-8059

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