Water Resource Engineer

State of North Carolina

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Division of Soil and Water Conservation is seeking a talented Water Resources Design Engineer with experience in earthen embankment pond design. This position will serve as the Team Lead for the design and evaluation of ponds and embankment dams as part of our cost share programs and resiliency projects for the Department. In addition to the primary focus on ponds and dams, the engineer will also design and implement best management practices (BMPs) for a variety of cost share programs, with emphasis on the Agricultural Water Resources Assistance Program. The position will also support the Community Conservation Assistance Program, Agricultural Cost Share Program, and Disaster Assistance Program. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in hydrology, hydraulics, water retention practices, spillway design, and earthen embankment design. All design work must adhere to program policies, NRCS Standards, Dam Safety Laws, and General Statute 89C, and will require a Professional Engineer’s seal.

Requirements

Experience and knowledge of the principles, practices, and concepts of civil, agricultural or environmental engineering
Engineering design experience specific to water resources, ponds and retention including spillway and dam embankment design.
Experience using computer aided drafting (CAD) preferably Autodesk Civil 3D to prepare engineering designs and construction documents.
Significant experience working with Dam Safety Laws and a working knowledge of agronomy, soils, and/or various federal, state, and/or local laws and regulations as applied to floodplain management, wastewater, and agricultural or confined animal operations.
Ability to effectively communicate both orally and in writing to facilitate discussion with various organizations, agencies, and the public, often with conflicting goals.
Bachelor’s degree in an applicable field of engineering from an appropriately accredited institution and four (4) years of progressively responsible experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
May require registration as a professional engineer by the North Carolina Board of Examiners for Engineers and Surveyors.

Responsibilities

Lead the design of earthen embankment dams and runoff storage ponds for agricultural use and develop BMPs that enhance water quantity and quality. Examples include: Agricultural water storage ponds (new construction), Existing ponds for repair, retrofit, and resiliency improvements for flood storage, Work on Low, Intermediate, and Small, high-hazard dams, Bioretention areas and stormwater wetlands, Stormwater infiltration practices such as grassed swales, rain gardens, and permeable pavements, Agricultural BMPs, including farm road stabilization, livestock feeding areas, and waste management practices
Conduct comprehensive site assessments to identify the most effective BMPs for each project.
Utilize CAD software to create detailed project designs and construction drawings, ensuring they align with relevant program policies and standards.
Observe construction activities to guarantee adherence to the approved designs and standards.
Perform final inspections and certifications to ensure that projects are completed according to the designs and meet all required specifications and program policies.
May require occasional after-hours work to address emergencies, such as flooding, drainage issues, or inspections of livestock waste management facilities.