Entry Level Project Engineer Jobs in Portland, OR

The City of St. Helens is seeking a full-time Engineer I to join the City's Public Works Engineering team. This entry-level professional engineering position provides an excellent opportunity to develop technical expertise and project management experience while contributing to essential public infrastructure projects that serve the community. Under the guidance of senior engineering staff, the Engineer I assists with the planning, design, review, and construction administration of water, wastewater, street, storm drainage, transportation, and other public works projects and programs. Responsibilities include reviewing private development plans for public improvements; assisting with project management, contract administration, and budget tracking for public works projects; coordinating with consultants, contractors, developers, and regulatory agencies; and ensuring compliance with applicable engineering standards, codes, permits, and City criteria. Related duties are performed as assigned. This position is well-suited for candidates who are eager to grow professionally, develop strong municipal engineering experience, and work on a diverse range of meaningful community infrastructure projects.

PAY & BENEFITS

The City of St. Helens offers a competitive salary range with annual step increases based on performance. The monthly salary range for the Engineer I position is $6,323 to $7,686.

The City also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Multiple health, dental, and vision insurance plan options for employees and families with only a 2% employee premium contribution
• Employer-paid participation in the Oregon Public Employees Retirement System
• 13 paid holidays annually
• Two to six weeks of vacation leave annually, based on years of service
• Sick leave accrual of 12 days per year
• $75 monthly wellness/fitness benefit
• Life insurance
• An annual PPE clothing and boot allowance of $450.

LIFE IN ST. HELENS

Located along the scenic Columbia River, St. Helens offers the character and pace of a small community while remaining conveniently connected to the greater Portland metropolitan area. Residents enjoy easy access to outdoor recreation, local shops and restaurants, community events, and nearby regional destinations, all within a setting known for its natural beauty and historic downtown. St. Helens provides an excellent balance between professional opportunity and quality of life. Whether enjoying local parks and trails, spending time on the river, or taking advantage of the amenities available in nearby Portland and Hillsboro, residents appreciate the community-focused atmosphere and accessibility the area offers. At the City of St. Helens, employees are part of a collaborative organization committed to providing high-quality public service and supporting the community's continued growth and success. The City values professionalism, accountability, innovation, and public stewardship while fostering an environment that supports professional development and meaningful work.

QUALIFICATIONS & DESIRED SKILLS

Required (must have on the first day)

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from an ABET-accredited college or university (Attach transcript to application)
• Engineer in Training (E.I.T.) certification, or the ability to obtain certification within one (1) year of hire (Attach certificate to application)
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office
• Ability to read engineering plans and specifications
• Valid driver's license

Preferred

• Public works or municipal internship experience
• Computer-Aided Drafting and Design (CADD)
• Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software and technology
• Construction field inspection experience

Minimum

• Knowledge of fundamental civil engineering principles, practices, and techniques
• Ability to learn methods, materials, and construction practices associated with public works infrastructure projects
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to prepare clear and effective written correspondence, reports, and technical documents
• Ability to read, interpret, and assist in the preparation of engineering plans, specifications, and contract documents
• Ability to work collaboratively with staff, contractors, consultants, developers, regulatory agencies, and the public

The ideal candidate will be organized, adaptable, detail-oriented, and interested in developing a well-rounded career in municipal engineering and public infrastructure.

WHAT YOU'LL DO

The Engineer I is a full-time position with a typical in-office work schedule of Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., including a one-hour lunch break. As an Engineer I, you will work on a variety of municipal infrastructure and development projects that directly support the community.

Opportunities include:

• Watermain, sewer main, storm drainage and other public infrastructure design projects
• Oversee construction projects, collaborate with contractors and inspectors and see engineering plans become completed public improvements
• Spend time in the field collecting data, solving real-world engineering challenges, inspecting construction, and working directly with operations and maintenance staff
• Develop practical GIS skills by creating and maintaining mapping resources that support infrastructure management, planning, and decision-making throughout the City
• Assist with roadway, pedestrian, bicycle, and traffic improvement projects that enhance safety, mobility, and accessibility throughout the community
• Reviewing private development plans for compliance with applicable City standards, codes, regulations, and engineering requirements
• Assisting with the planning, design, bidding, construction, and closeout of public works projects
• Coordinating bid advertisements, reviewing construction bids, and assisting with contractor and consultant selection recommendations
• Performing construction observation and inspection to verify compliance with project plans and specifications
• Coordinating with contractors, consultants, developers, utility providers, regulatory agencies, and City staff
• Maintaining project documentation and accurate record drawings/as-built information
• Assisting with project tracking, contract administration, and other engineering-related assignments as needed
• Help plan and prioritize long-term infrastructure investments by participating in engineering studies, budgeting, grant-funded projects, and the City's Capital Improvement Program
• Build valuable communication skills by working directly with residents, contractors, consultants, and community stakeholders to explain projects and resolve engineering concerns
• Project Lifecycle Experience. Unlike many entry-level engineering positions, you'll have the opportunity to participate in every phase of a project-from initial planning and design through permitting, bidding, construction, and project closeout

APPLY TODAY

If you are interested in building a career in municipal engineering and contributing to meaningful public infrastructure projects, we encourage you to apply to join the St. Helens team.

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete the required employment eligibility verification documentation upon hire. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without the need for visa sponsorship.

Veterans' preference points are available in accordance with Oregon law. Applicants wishing to claim veterans' preference should contact Human Resources Coordinator Kathy Payne at or for required application materials.

The City of St. Helens is an equal opportunity employer.

Successful candidates will be required to pass a background investigation, including criminal records, driving records, and personal and professional references, including past employers.