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About the Highway Program Deputy Director

The Highway Program Deputy Director, reporting to the Chief of Engineering and Program Delivery, manages a diverse and talented team of seasoned staff who is well-versed on the delivery of capital projects related to the State highway system and other roadways in the county. This position is responsible for directing and leading collaboration on planning, design development (including technical analysis in support of preliminary engineering and final design), project-related right-of-way activities (in coordination with VTA Real Estate), construction management and close out, overall program/project management (including scopes, costs, schedules and quality of work), management of staff resources (both VTA and consultant), coordination with project stakeholders within VTA and beyond (e.g., local agencies, Caltrans, federal agencies, resources agencies, utilities, etc.), and community and other outreach (working with VTA public information and government affairs staff).
 

DESCRIPTION:

The Department:

The Parks and Recreation Department provides planning, development, operation, maintenance, and rehabilitation of the City's neighborhood parks, open space, water sites, recreation buildings, and trails.

The Position:

Under supervision, to perform a variety of unskilled and semi-skilled tasks in connection with the development and maintenance of City parks and recreational facilities.

As an As-needed Laborer, the successful incumbent will work in the department, performing routine maintenance on various parks and facilities including the city-owned cemetery. This position will assist in maintenance and repair using a variety of tools and specialized equipment. 

The Laborer position performs varied, unskilled and skilled manual tasks related to landscape maintenance and sanitization. Typical tasks include cleaning and sanitizing restrooms and buildings, loading trash and leaves in truck, litter abatement, mowing, edging, cleaning park sites, graffiti abatement, and operating a variety of hand/power tools and heavy equipment as needed. This position may require working weekends, holidays, and after hours. Must be able to read, speak, and write English at a basic level, follow written and oral instruction, and perform heavy lifting.  

As an as-needed employee, this is an "at-will" position and there is no guarantee of hours. Hours are limited to 999 in a fiscal year or 960 hours in a fiscal year for retired CalPERS annuitants.

THIS RECRUITMENT MAY BE USED TO FILL MULTIPLE POSITIONS IN THIS, OR OTHER DIVISIONS OR DEPARTMENTS BESIDES THE POSITIONS LISTED BELOW.  IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN EMPLOYMENT IN THIS CLASSIFICATION, YOU SHOULD APPLY TO ENSURE YOU ARE CONSIDERED FOR ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITIES THAT MAY UTILIZE THE APPLICANTS FROM THIS RECRUITMENT. MEETING THE MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS DOES NOT GUARANTEE ADMITTANCE INTO THE EXAMINATION PROCESS.  ONLY THE MOST QUALIFIED CANDIDATES WHO DEMONSTRATE THE BEST COMBINATION OF QUALIFICATIONS IN RELATION TO THE REQUIREMENTS AND DUTIES OF THE POSITION WILL BE INVITED TO TEST OR INTERVIEW.

The annual salary range for this position is $17.75 - $24.85.  This position will be filled at or near the bottom of the salary range.

TYPICAL DUTIES:

Under direct supervision, performs varied, unskilled manual tasks often requiring considerable physical strength and the use of hand tools and hand power tools; loads rubbish and leaves on trucks; excavates and fills trenches and ditches; assists in the removal, trimming and spraying of trees and shrubs; prepares surfaces for paving; mixes cement; breaks up paved surfaces; helps place forms and pour concrete; lays pipes; uses such tools as shovel, rake, and jackhammer; operates trucks and heavier equipment as needed. Performs construction, maintenance and sanitation duties as required; and does related work as required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Minimum Education Requirements:

Sufficient education to provide the ability to read, write and speak English at a basic level. 

Minimum Experience Requirements:

No experience is required.

Acceptable Substitution:

None.

License/Certifications:

Possession of a valid California Class C driver’s license is required.

Desirable Qualifications:

• Landscape maintenance experience.
• Experience working with the public in a service environment.

Other Requirements:

Ability to work odd and irregular hours including weekends and holidays.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: 

Some knowledge of: the purposes, use, and maintenance of simple hand tools; construction and maintenance methods and materials. Good ability to: learn to use simple hand tools; follow oral and written instructions; and perform heavy physical labor.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED
Works under the direct supervision of an assigned supervisor.

Additional Information:

You must answer all job-specific questions in order to be considered for this vacancy or your application will be deemed incomplete and withheld from further consideration. Applications must be filled out completely (i.e. do not write “see resume or personnel file.”). To receive consideration for the screening process, candidates must submit a Complete City Application. Incomplete applications will not be accepted. Application packets may be submitted online through the “Apply Now” feature on the job announcement at www.santaclaraca.gov. This position is open until filled: Applications will be reviewed on a weekly basis for consideration to the position.  If you are interested in applying you are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, before the position is closed.

The City of Santa Clara is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants for all job openings will be considered without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status or any other consideration made unlawful under any federal, state or local laws. The City of Santa Clara is committed to offering reasonable accommodations to job applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at (408) 615-2080 or HumanResources@santaclaraca.gov.

VTA is seeking a Lead Procurement and Contracts Manager for the BART Silicon Valley II Project. Don't wait and apply today!

 

This position has an anticipated end date of December 31, 2036.

 

The Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority employs more than 2,000 people dedicated to providing solutions that move Silicon Valley. Unique among transportation organizations in the San Francisco Bay Area, VTA is Santa Clara County’sauthority for transit development and operations (light rail and bus), congestion management, transportation-related funding, highway design and construction, real estate, and transit-oriented development, and bicycle and pedestrian planning. With local, state, and federal partners, VTA works to innovate the way Silicon Valley moves and provide mobility solutions for all.

Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) is an independent special district that provides sustainable, accessible,community-focused, innovative, and environmentally responsible transportation options promoting the region's vitality. VTA provides bus, light rail, and paratransit services and participates as a funding partner in regional rail services, including Caltrain, Capital Corridor, and the Altamont Corridor Express.
To learn more, go to: vta.org

About Procurement, Contracts & Business Diversity
VTA’s Procurement, Contracts & Business Diversity (PCBD) is committed to procurement processes, contract administration, and compliance that fosters fair and open competition, compliance with federal, state, and local laws and requirements, and adheres to the highest ethical standards.
 

Goods and General Services, Professional Services/Technology, Design and Construction Sections, and the Offices of Business Diversity and Labor and Stormwater Compliance comprise the PCBD Department.  

Our Community
Santa Clara County sometimes referred to as “Silicon Valley”, is unique for its innovation, natural attractions, and social diversity. With numerous amenities and perfect weather, it has long been considered one of the best places in the United States to live and work. calendar of festivals and celebrations supports the community spirit. Nearby open space provides easy access to mountain parks, trails, lakes, streams, and beautiful coastal beaches. San José has received accolades for its vibrant neighborhoods, healthy lifestyle, and diverse attractions from national media, including Business Week and Money magazines.
The county’s population of 1.9 million is the largest in Northern California and is rich in ethnic culture and diversity. Enjoy access and the option to explore our closely neighboring counties of San Francisco and Alameda.

Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate has in-depth procurement and contracts experience, whose substantial experience includes transit construction projects.  The candidate will oversee and manage the procurement and administration of all procurement and contracts for the BART Silicon Valley Phase II (“BSV II”) Project, including procurement and contract administration of Technology, Architectural, and Engineering (“A&E”) and other professional services contracts and major high-value, complex construction contracts with potentially various delivery methods, including Design-Bid-Build, Design-Build, Progressive Design-Build, and CM/GC.
 
The ideal candidate is familiar with both contract change management and contract claims management processes for change requests, amendments, and contract claims that arise during the administration of a transit construction project.  
 
The candidate’s in-depth experience will necessarily lead to candidate-led interfaces with BSV2 Project Controls, Design, Construction, and Risk teams, among others, such that procurement schedules are managed in alignment with the overall Project schedule.  
 
The candidate will oversee the development of Request for Qualifications, Request for Proposals, and Invitation for Bids, ensuring they comply with FTA, state, local, and VTA requirements; identify changes that are required and have the skillset to draft revisions to standard templates and General Terms and Conditions to submit for approval.  
 
The candidate coordinates with the BSV II Project to widely market upcoming procurements prior to formal advertisement to attract competition in BSV II procurements.  The candidate oversees the pre-advertisement industry events.
 
The candidate conducts the pre-bid and pre-proposal conferences, the bid openings on the Bid Due Date, conducts formal Discussions with proposers and oversees the evaluation process.
 
The candidate will provide guidance and direction to the Project Team preceding contract negotiations where permitted or required, such as negotiations of cost and pricing for A&E contracts.  The candidate has the skillset to draft a Negotiations Strategy Memo that considers multiple factors, including an analysis of the independent cost estimate, the proposer’s cost proposal, and market conditions.  The candidate and their team will oversee the negotiations, ensuring all proper documentation is in place and negotiations are conducted in a disciplined manner.  The candidate must prepare the record of negotiations and cost analysis prior to awarding the contract or contract amendment.
 
The candidate manages all bid protests, analyzes each bid protest, and provides recommendations of their disposition supported by clear facts, supporting documents, and persuasive arguments.   The candidate must have excellent written and oral communication skills.  
 
The candidate will execute contracts on behalf of VTA within signature authority as delegated by the Chief Procurement Officer.
 
The candidate will represent VTA at all disciplinary and other meetings.
For change orders, the candidate must lead the change order process, ensuring that there is a finding of merit and the cost is reasonable for the change in scope.  
 
The candidate will lead any and all procurement and contracts audits and reviews, including the FTA Triennial. The candidate will be responsible for maintaining contracts files of all BSVII contracts that are FTA requirements-compliant.
 
The candidate must have managerial skills to train and lead a group of contract administrators in all areas discussed above, including guiding them in rigorous management of their respective procurements.  
 
A 4-year Bachelor’s minimum education is required and a graduate degree is preferable.  Extensive experience in procurement and contracts is a must.   Experience in construction claims and even claims litigation is a plus.   This position is subject to VTA’s Telework Policy.
 

Definition

Under general direction, the Construction Contracts Administration Manager oversees and manages the procurement and administration of construction contracts including alternative delivery contracts such as Design Build (DB) and CM/GC (Construction Manager/General Contractor).

Distinguishing Characteristics

This classification is responsible for managing major VTA construction contracts and the related contract administration activities associated with construction projects.  Responsibilities include the administration of contracts that are highly complex and sensitive in nature, where substantial judgment and initiative are essential in making recommendations and resolving problems.  This class is distinguished from the Deputy Director of Procurement, Contracts, and Materials in that the latter has overall responsibility for all procurement, contract administration, and materials management functions. 

Classification Bargaining Unit: Non-Represented

 

Essential Job Functions

Typical Tasks

• Selects, supervises, trains, evaluates, counsels, and disciplines staff;
• Provides expert guidance in construction procurement and contract administration, including DB and CM/GC contracting;
• Reviews plans, specifications, reports, and other documents for consistency with the selected contracting approach;
• Oversees the preparation of Requests for Qualifications (RFQs), Requests for Proposals (RFPs), and Invitations for Bids (IFBs);
• Oversees and coordinates the development of contract language;
• Evaluates market conditions with respect to the viability of construction contracts;
• Evaluates project risks and risk mitigation strategies;
• Manages the preparation and negotiation of change orders;
• Analyzes cost estimates and work statements to determine the appropriate contract action;
• Ensures that Invitations for Bids and Requests for Proposals are conducted consistent with appropriate contracting regulations;
• Conducts pre-bid/proposal conferences and bid/proposal openings;
• Evaluates proposals and determines responsiveness and responsibility of offers;
• Serves as chairperson on proposal evaluation committees;
• Negotiates and prepares contracts that are highly complex and sensitive in nature;
• Coordinates with management and legal staff on legal issues associated with construction contracting and alternative project delivery;
• Executes contracts on behalf of VTA within signature authority as delegated by the Manager of Procurement, Contracts and Materials;
• Processes claims and stop notices and works to resolve protests;
• Represents VTA at disciplinary hearings and other meetings;
• Serves as a member of the management team in meetings/negotiations with labor unions and conducts financial analysis;
• Ensures that VTA complies with the various rulings and decisions of relevant administrative and judicial authorities;
• Monitors, revises, and enforces VTA procurement policies and procedures;
• Manages the development and implementation of department goals, objectives, policies, and priorities for work unit;
• Ensures that VTA complies with the requirements of funding agencies for usage of grant funds;
• Ensures compliance with VTA policies and procedures, including equal opportunity and discrimination and harassment prevention;
• Performs related duties as required.

Minimum Qualifications

Sufficient training, education, and public or private sector experience to demonstrate possession of the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Development of the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is typically obtained through a combination of training and experience equivalent to graduation from an accredited college or university with a four-year degree, and substantial, increasingly responsible contract administration experience in a public agency or transit setting involving highly complex, high dollar value contracts, with several years of supervisory experience.

Possession of procurement certifications, such as CPPO and/or CFCM, are desirable.

Supplemental Information

Knowledge of:

• Theories, principles, and practices of contract administration for public agencies including alternative delivery methods (e.g. DB, CM/GC);
• Applicable local, state, and federal laws, rules, and regulations governing public procurement and contract administration processes for design build, construction, and professional services contracts;
• Principles and techniques of budget preparation, and program and personnel management;
• Principles and practices of supervision, training, and constructive discipline;
• Bid and contract analysis and preparation techniques;
• Accounting principles and practices;
• Theories, principles, and practices of design management, construction management, quality assurance/quality control, and construction inspection;
• Theories, principles, and practices of claim avoidance and claim resolution;
• Applicable local, state, and federal laws, rules, and regulations governing public procurement and contract administration processes for construction contracts.

• Federal and state requirements for conducting qualifications-based procurements, as detailed under the Federal Brooks Act and in the California Public Contract Code;
• Manage and direct the operations, services, and activities of the unit;
• Prepare comprehensive specifications, contracts, reports, and correspondence;
• Develop negotiation strategies and negotiate complex contracts and/or change orders;
• Define problems, evaluate, recommend, and implement alternative solutions to complex issues and problems;
• Develop, implement, and interpret goals, objectives, policies, procedures, work standards, and internal controls;
• Interpret and effectively use management information reports;
• Select, supervise, train, motivate, assign, evaluate, counsel, and discipline staff;
• Understand, interpret, and apply laws, rules, regulations, policies and procedures;
• Communicate effectively both orally and in writing;
• Prepare and control a budget;
• Establish and maintain effective relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Application Processing Information  

All related current and past work experience (including VTA experience) must be listed and fully described in the Work Experience section of the application and answers to Supplemental Questions must be completed ("See Resume" or "See Attached" is not acceptable). Incomplete or improperly completed online applications may be rejected even if you are qualified for the position for which you are applying. It is your responsibility to ensure that the online application reflects the work experience and education needed to meet the requirements for the position you are applying for. Although your resume may have all your experience and education details, please make sure to complete each section of the online application to ensure that your information is accurately captured during our screening process.  

Important: Proof of Education, either as a copy of a diploma or transcript, is required to verify all educational units listed on your application. Official transcripts are not necessary. Copies of diplomas, degrees, transcripts, or foreign transcript evaluations must be attached to the submitted application as a PDF.  
 

Note: Failure to provide all of the required documents in the appropriate format (PDF ONLY), and properly labeled as shown in the example (for example: Smith_J BS Diploma), will result in the application being rejected as incomplete. No exceptions will be made.  
 

Note: Applicants holding degrees or credentials from outside the United States who are using these qualifications exclusively to qualify for a position are required to provide a foreign transcript evaluation as a PDF and properly labeled as shown above. Failure to provide a foreign transcript evaluation will result in the application being rejected as incomplete. No exceptions will be made.  
 

All applications are subject to review as to meeting minimum qualifications at any point in the recruitment process. Passing any step is no guarantee of continuation if it is determined that the applicant does not meet the minimum qualifications as stated in the class specification.  

Candidates found to have exaggerated/falsified their qualifications, experience, training, and/or education may be disqualified at any point in the recruitment process and may be denied future employment with the VTA.  

If selected for the position, candidates will be required to complete a criminal conviction disclosure form. Candidates who successfully become VTA employees, and fail to disclose any of the criminal background information as required may be subject to discipline up to and including discharge.  
 

Eligible Lists typically remain in effect for six (6) months. However, Human Resources may abolish Eligible Lists at any time during the six (6) month period. Human Resources may extend eligible Lists for up to two (2) years. Eligible Lists may be used for more than one recruitment. If you have questions related to an Eligible List you might be on or were on, you should contact Human Resources.  

If you have questions regarding your status as an applicant for this position, please call the Human Resources Department at (408) 321-5575 or email at Personnel@vta.org. 

Americans with Disabilities Act Accommodations
The Human Resources Department will make reasonable efforts in the recruitment/examination process to accommodate applicants with disabilities. If you wish to request an accommodation, please click here.

The City of Santa Clara is recruiting for the Electric Utility Chief Operating Officer for its Electric Utility, Silicon Valley Power (SVP).  Reporting to the Chief Electric Utility Officer (CEUO), the Electric Utility Chief Operating Officer (COO) is a senior management position in the City's unclassified service responsible for the oversight and direction for the fiscal, administrative, and managerial operations of the utility. The COO has supervisory and support responsibilities for the utility's divisions: Utility Operations, Customer Development and Project Management, Resource Planning and Customer Engagement, and Business Services. The COO will help guide SVP through the extraordinary period of growth related by doubling the existing capacity of the electrical system to meet new customer demands over the next 10 years. In addition to the expansion, the COO will work to ensure new renewable resources are added to meet the City's and State’s climate goals. The COO is responsible for forecasting service requirements and for planning, organizing and directing assigned resources of the electric utility division in order to meet those requirements. This includes developing and administering the department operations and capital improvement budgets. The COO is expected to exercise critical thinking and detail oriented oversight in ensuring that utility operations are smooth, efficient, and compliant, with responsibility for results including costs, methods, and staffing.
 
As a member of the City's Unclassified Service, this is an "at-will" position and the incumbent serves at the discretion of the City Manager.  An incumbent in this classification:  demonstrates strong ethical, professional, and service-oriented leadership and interpersonal skills; sets a good example; and correctly applies the tenets of the City's Code of Ethics and values.
 
Federal law requires all employees to provide verification of their eligibility to work in this country. Please be informed that the City of Santa Clara will not sponsor, represent, or sign documents related to visa applications/transfers for H1B or any other type of visa which requires an employer application.  
 
This recruitment is being conducted by JPowers Recruiting, Inc.  In order to be considered for this position, please apply via JPowers Recruiting Inc. at Electric Utility Chief Operating Officer (COO).  Candidates are encouraged to apply to receive first consideration.  The posting may close at any time.
 
The City of Santa Clara is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants for all job openings will be considered without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status or any other consideration made unlawful under any federal, state or local laws. The City of Santa Clara is committed to offering reasonable accommodations to job applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at (408) 615-2080 or HumanResources@santaclaraca.gov.
 

THIS RECRUITMENT MAY BE USED TO FILL MULTIPLE POSITIONS IN THIS, OR OTHER DIVISIONS OR DEPARTMENTS BESIDES THE POSITIONS LISTED BELOW.  IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN EMPLOYMENT IN THIS CLASSIFICATION, YOU SHOULD APPLY TO ENSURE YOU ARE CONSIDERED FOR ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITIES THAT MAY UTILIZE THE APPLICANTS FROM THIS RECRUITMENT. MEETING THE MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS DOES NOT GUARANTEE ADMITTANCE INTO THE EXAMINATION PROCESS.  ONLY THE MOST QUALIFIED CANDIDATES WHO DEMONSTRATE THE BEST COMBINATION OF QUALIFICATIONS IN RELATION TO THE REQUIREMENTS AND DUTIES OF THE POSITION WILL BE INVITED TO TEST OR INTERVIEW. 

Please click on the Job PDF to view the announcement.

This recruitment is open until filled and the first review of applications will be on Monday, November 13, 2023.

 

The City
The City of Santa Clara is a "full service" city – one of only a few communities in the Bay Area that has its own police, fire, library, recreation, and electric, water, and sewer utilities, as well as all of the other departments and civic amenities expected in a thriving community. Santa Clara is a family-oriented and business-friendly city, led by a city government that has developed an award-winning ethics program and a commitment to fostering public trust. Located in Santa Clara County at the southern tip of San Francisco Bay, about 45 miles south of San Francisco, Santa Clara is a strategic regional hub, with convenient access to freeways, airports, railroads, expressways, light rail, and other public transportation.  

The Position
This announcement is for two (2) positions as described below:
 
Department of Public Works
The City of Santa Clara's Department of Public Works seeks a results-oriented and innovative engineer to serve out the Department's mission to provide the highest quality public works services to the residents of Santa Clara, the development community, and our customers in a responsible and efficient manner. The Department has focus areas that include Engineering Services and Operations and Maintenance. Engineering Services is comprised of five divisions: Administration, Traffic, Design, Land and Property Development, and Field Services. Operations and Maintenance include public roadways, parkways and boulevards, City trees, street sweeping, environmental programs, storm drain systems, fleet, solid and mixed waste/recyclables, and City facilities. For more information about the Department of Public Works please visit the department website.

The Traffic Engineering Division provides traffic engineering (technical support for the design and construction of both City and private development projects), traffic impact analysis reviews for private development projects and transportation projects, bicycle and pedestrian improvement planning, grant administration, and traffic signal maintenance and operation services for the City. The division receives and investigates resident/business inquiries related to street parking, traffic calming, intersection control (i.e signals, beacons, and crosswalks), and bicycling and pedestrian travel on public streets. The investigations may involve interaction with the residents, field review, traffic data collection, and evaluation of collected information with established city policies to prepare engineering recommendations for possible improvements. The division also focuses on multi-modal planning and implementation specifically related to the goals and projects included with the City’s Bicycle Plan,  Pedestrian Masterplan, and the City’s Complete Streets policy. Finally, this division coordinates with other agencies such as the Valley Transportation Authority, County of Santa Clara Roads and Airports, Caltrans,
 and the cities of San Jose, Cupertino, and Sunnyvale related to projects, programs, and grant opportunities. Experience in customer service, traffic design and construction, transportation planning, and project management and delivery is essential to success in this position.

Under direct supervision, the Associate Engineer (Civil) performs field and office work, reviews and approves designs for traffic control, traffic improvement, and private development related public improvements, administers grants, provides technical assistance in the implementation of transportation plans and programs (i.e. Bicycle Master Plan, Pedestrian Master Plan, Complete Streets Policy), supports the City’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee, and will work with the public and consultants on various projects and transportation related inquiries.[CM1] 

 

Water & Sewer Utilities Department
Santa Clara Water & Sewer Utilities' mission is to provide customers a dependable supply of safe, potable water, environmentally-sound wastewater collection, treatment, and disposal. Furthermore, recycled water is offered for approved uses including irrigation and industrial processes, where available. Programs and services are designed and implemented with economic and environmental benefits in mind. The City of Santa Clara's Water & Sewer Utilities Department seeks an engineer with excellent project management skills; strong oral and written communication skills; a proven record of preparing and administering consultant contracts and agreements; experience preparing construction documents; experience designing, managing, maintaining and/or operating water, recycled water and sanitary sewer utilities; experience reviewing land development projects; experience working in a team environment on major construction projects, including working collaboratively with contractors, technicians, field staff, outside agency staff, and the general public. For more information about the Water & Sewer Utilities Department, please visit the department website.

Under direct supervision, the Associate Engineer (Civil) performs high-level, fast paced engineering work relating to the permitting, design and construction of water, recycled water,  and sewer projects within the City. In addition, the Associate Engineer prepares construction documents such as improvement plans, specifications, estimates and schedules for water and sewer projects. As well as procures consultant and construction contracts for the design and construction of water and sewer projects including the preparation of requests for proposals (RFP), administration of the bidding and awarding process, preparation of Council agenda items, and administration of the consultant and construction contracts. This incumbent will review new developments and proposed public and/or commercial utilities improvement projects for compliance with City, County, State and Federal government regulations and standards. The Associate Engineer is expected to plan, organize, and prioritize a diverse workload of projects and tasks including technical and administrative tasks, and exercise independent judgment and decision making in resolving problems.

 

THIS RECRUITMENT MAY BE USED TO FILL MULTIPLE POSITIONS IN THIS, OR OTHER DIVISIONS OR DEPARTMENTS BESIDES THE POSITIONS LISTED BELOW.  IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN EMPLOYMENT IN THIS CLASSIFICATION, YOU SHOULD APPLY TO ENSURE YOU ARE CONSIDERED FOR ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITIES THAT MAY UTILIZE THE APPLICANTS FROM THIS RECRUITMENT. MEETING THE MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS DOES NOT GUARANTEE ADMITTANCE INTO THE EXAMINATION PROCESS.  ONLY THE MOST QUALIFIED CANDIDATES WHO DEMONSTRATE THE BEST COMBINATION OF QUALIFICATIONS IN RELATION TO THE REQUIREMENTS AND DUTIES OF THE POSITION WILL BE INVITED TO TEST OR INTERVIEW. 

 

 

 

Typical Duties

 

Duties include, but are not limited to the following:

Under direct supervision: 
• Conduct studies and analyses of engineering projects or problems, including  public works planning activities, public works maintenance programs, traffic and transportation engineering, and other public projects
• Prepare plans, specifications and cost estimates for  storm drain and sanitary sewer systems,  urban roadways, bridges, traffic and transportation systems, public building and other public projects
• Compile engineering data and make calculations
• Perform calculations and prepare estimates of time and material costs
• Perform drafting involved in the preparation of maps, drawings, plans, easement and right-of-way documents, and other related matters
• Tabulate field data, design routine civil engineering projects and structures
• Write land descriptions, prepare contracts, agreements and other documents
• Write reports,  minutes, conditions of approval and actively participate in the City's staff committees on review of projects and subdivisions
• Run surveying equipment,  perform general survey work, or inspect and/or administer public works construction projects
• Answer questions, write replies, review permit requests, determine and collect development fees, review and comment on developer public improvement plans, subdivision maps, and easement/right of way documents  as generated by general public, contractors, developers, engineers and other public agencies
• Issue Encroachment Permits (EP) and determine and collect fees
• Assist with the department's annual and five-year capital improvement budgets and the operating budget
• Manage the operation of City traffic signals and transportation systems
• Coordinate engineering activities with other City departments and other public agencies
• Provide technical information to other City departments and to the general public
• Write, review and edit City Council agenda reports and engineering reports
• May prepare and coordinate project construction schedules
• May prepare and/or revise design construction standard documents
• Provide construction management, construction contract administration, and consultant contract administration for public works projects
• Train and supervise professional and paraprofessional engineering staff
• Represent the Public Works Department in community, other public agency and professional meetings
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

 

Minimum Qualifications

 

Minimum Qualifications
• A Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering from a college or university that is accredited by the Accreditation Board of Engineering and Technology (ABET)
• Two (2) years of experience in civil engineering office and field work.

Possible Substitutions:
• A Master's Degree in any branch of Civil Engineering from an ABET accredited college or University may be substituted for one (1) year of experience

LICENSES & CERTIFICATION
• Possession of a valid California Class C driver's license is required at time of appointment and for duration of employment
• Possession of a State of California Engineer in Training (E.I.T.) Certificate or Registration as a Civil Engineer in the State of California is required at time of appointment and for duration of employment
• Registration as a Civil Engineer in the State of California is desirable
• Other licenses and certificates directly related to the Civil Engineering field (e.g. Geotechnical Engineer, Traffic Engineer, Structural Engineer, Land Surveyor, Qualified Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan Developer (QSD), Qualified Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan Practitioner (QSP))is desirable
• Current city employees appointed to Associate Engineer (Civil) prior to September 1, 2015 are waived of the required State of California Engineer in Training (E.I.T.) Certificate or Registration as a Civil Engineer in the State of California

OTHER REQUIREMENTS
• Must be able to perform all of the essential functions of the job assignment.
• May be required to work shifts, weekends, and odd and unusual hours in the performance of duties and emergency situations.

CONFLICT OF INTEREST
Incumbents assigned to the Field Services position are required to file a Conflict of Interest statement upon assuming office, annually, and upon leaving office, in accordance with City Manager Directive 100.

 

Candidates must attain a passing score on each phase of the examination process to qualify for the Eligible List. A department interview will be required prior to appointment.

 

Federal law requires all employees to provide verification of their eligibility to work in this country. Please be informed that the City of Santa Clara will not sponsor, represent, or sign documents related to visa applications/transfers for H1B or any other type of visa which requires an employer application.  

  

 

PERMANENT CITY EMPLOYEES PREFERENCE POINTS: Current permanent employee candidates who receive a passing score on the examination will have an additional five (5) points added to their final score.

 

 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

 

Knowledge of: 
• Principles, practices, methods and techniques of civil engineering as applied to the planning, design, construction, repair, maintenance and operation of urban roadways, storm drain and sanitary sewer systems, bridges, traffic and transportation systems including, but not limited to land surveying, grading and drainage, hydraulics of open channel and pipe flow, highway engineering, traffic and transportation engineering, economic analysis, project scheduling, construction testing and inspection, strengths properties and uses of material for public works projects, soil investigation, structural analysis, drafting, report writing, mapping, and project technical specification writing
• Federal, State and local laws, codes, ordinances, regulations, and policies pertaining to public works projects and transportation infrastructure operation
• Approved construction and field safety standards, practices, and procedures related to public works projects
• Hydrology and hydraulics as they relate to civil engineering
• Transportation planning and traffic signal operation
• Project and construction management
• Consultant and construction contract administration
• Means, methods, materials and equipment used in construction of public works projects
• Project cost estimating and project plan preparation
• Principles of supervision and training
• Computer applications (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite, project management software, scheduling tools, computer-aided drafting and design (CADD) with civil engineering modules and geographic information system (GIS))
• Environmental and safety practices, procedures and standards

Ability to:
• Follow oral and written directions;
• Prepare, review, interpret and evaluate plans, specifications, cost estimates, project schedules, proposals, land surveys and engineering reports for public works projects
• Read, interpret and apply laws, codes, ordinances, regulations, and policies governing public works projects and transportation infrastructure operation
• Maintain records, logs and databases
• Prepare comprehensive engineering and administrative staff reports
• Perform quantity take-off work from construction plans
• Compile and analyze data, prepare reports and make recommendations
• Make accurate mathematical calculations and engineering computations and drawings
• Effectively communicate both orally and in writing
• Prepare and make public presentations
• Write clear, concise reports, using correct composition, English grammar and spelling
• Comprehend, carry out and issue oral and written technical instructions
• Supervise and train other professional or paraprofessional engineering personnel
• Analyze facts and to exercise independent judgment
• Grasp new ideas and concepts
• Understand and use administrative and engineering computer applications and software (e.g., project management software, Access, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook and Word, computer-aided design and drafting (CADD) with civil engineering modules, and GIS)
• Use drafting and survey instruments, and other engineering aids
• Operate personal computer, plotter, and other standard office equipment
• Interact, establish, and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work including the public, other agencies and coworkers
• Work in a team based environment to resolve problems, achieve common goals, and successfully deliver projects
• Deal tactfully and courteously with others
• Focus on the important matters, effectively handle multiple priorities, organize workload and meet deadlines
• Make sound decisions in a manner consistent with the essential job functions; and
• Bend, stoop, reach, carry, crawl, climb and lift as necessary to perform assigned duties

 

Additional Information: 

You must answer all job-specific questions in order to be considered for this vacancy or your application will be deemed incomplete and withheld from further consideration. Applications must be filled out completely (i.e. do not write “see resume or personnel file.”). To receive consideration for the screening process, candidates must submit a 1) Cover Letter and, 2) Resume. Incomplete applications will not be accepted. Application packets may be submitted online through the “Apply Now” feature on the job announcement at www.santaclaraca.gov. This recruitment is open until filled and the first review of applications will be on Monday, November 13, 2023. 

About the Department

The City of San José is one of the nation's best-managed cities and one of the top ten cities in which to live, work, and do business. The employees of the City have embraced the following values: Integrity, Innovation, Excellence, Collaboration, Respect, and Celebration. The City's Public Works Department (PWD) is seeking an individual whose values align with the values of the City's employees.

The Department of Public Works is responsible for delivering capital improvement projects for a wide variety of City facilities and infrastructure, maintaining City facilities and fleet assets, facilitating, and regulating development activities, and providing animal care and services. The Department is committed to high-quality service, partnering with the community, and providing an excellent environment in which to work.

Position Duties

Salary range for this classification is: 

$122,959.20 - $149,822.40 

This range includes an approximate five percent (5%) ongoing non-pensionable pay. Actual salary shall be determined by the final candidates’ qualifications and experience. 

The Department of Public Works is recruiting for a Chief of Surveys to provide the following typical duties and responsibilities which may include but are not limited to: 

• Supervises an office technical staff in the preparation of drawings, corner records, record of surveys, reviewing improvement plans and specifications, parcel maps and tract maps. 
• Reviews, approves, or examines land surveying documents (maps, plats, reports, descriptions, etc.) under supervision of the Land Surveyor. 
• Manages surveying staff including supervision, hiring, training and performance evaluations. 
• Plans, coordinates, and schedules all office surveying activities. 
• Sets and maintains standard practices for office surveying activities and quality control. 
• Consults with public and private engineers, inspectors, and contractors relative to requested work and coordinates any necessary activities. 
• Communicates with clients and the public and resolves issues that arise during field surveys. 
• Performs map and document research for field and office survey projects. 
• Interprets construction documents for construction surveys. 

The Department: 

SVP currently provides over 600 Megawatts of power to residential and business customers within Santa Clara, of which 40 percent of comes from carbon-free renewable resources. In addition to using green energy from large-scale wind, solar, geothermal and hydroelectric projects outside of the area, SVP employs innovative ways to locally produce electricity by operating Thermal Generation facilities utilizing Simple Cycle, Combined Cycle, and Cogeneration technologies. It is the mission of Silicon Valley Power to be a progressive, service-oriented utility, offering reliable, competitively priced services for the benefit of Santa Clara and its customers. Being competitive in the marketplace with a continuous focus on customer service, SVP can provide economic value to the City of Santa Clara and its customers while maintaining low residential rates and offering competitive rates for all customers.

The Positions: 

Silicon Valley Power is recruiting to fill various Electric Program Manager positions in the following specialties: Capital Project, Contracts, Distributed Energy Resources and Storage, Environmental, Safety, and System Operations.  

Capital Project Management

The focus and priority of this position will be to perform complex professional project management work to support the successful completion of over $300 million in near-term capital improvement program projects to support electric utility load growth.  The position is assigned to the customer development and project management unit which manages, plans, and oversees the development and implementation of the capital improvement program. This position will report to the Principal Electric Utility Engineer overseeing the System Expansion Program and will work collaboratively on the management of these critical projects. The individual will perform and manage the work related to planning, design, construction, operations, and maintenance of utility projects, including receiving stations, substations, electric transmission and distribution facilities, and other electrical infrastructure.  The incumbent is expected to manage consultants and directly administer public works contracts. Experience in electric utility engineering, utility asset management, GIS and work order management system is desirable.

• Distinguishing Characteristics/Experience:
  1. Direct knowledge in managing, planning, and overseeing the development and implementation of Capital Improvement Program(s) (CIP).
  2. Ability to provide extensive, in-depth, and specialized administrative, budgetary, financial, and compliance research, analysis, and support.
  3. Experience in management, engineering, financial, high-level administrative planning and analysis, and/or project management experience.

Contracts Portfolio 

The focus and priority of this position will be to perform complex professional work to support the development and management of SVP’s contracts portfolio.  SVP’s operation requires hundreds of unique contracts including specialized services agreements, leases, agreements with customers for substation construction, funding and deposits, public works contracts, license agreements, power purchase and resource adequacy agreements, as well as other unique agreements.  The position is assigned to the Business Services Division.  The incumbent will both lead staff supporting contracts functions and have direct involvement in negotiating and reviewing contracts.   Experience in utility contracts is desirable.

• Distinguishing Characteristics/Experience:
  • Direct knowledge and experience in contracts review, negotiating, and management for a variety of contract types.
  • Ability to providing extensive, in-depth, and specialized administrative, budgetary, financial, and compliance research, analysis, and support
  • Experience in managing and assigning work to administrative and clerical staff.

 

Distributed Energy Resources, Renewable Energy and Power Purchase Contracts

This position develops and implements cutting edge programs entailing distributed and renewable generation, energy storage, demand response, and microgrids. Incumbents perform professional level, individual work in project development.  Duties may include supervising and participating in the conduct of studies and surveys, data interpretation, forecasting, commodity purchasing, contract negotiation, pricing/rate making, engineering studies, development of policies and procedures, evaluating regulatory and legislative initiatives, preparing, reviewing, and managing budgets and operations.  Commodity purchasing and contract negotiation may include evaluation and development of strategies for electricity generation, both distributed and utility scale. Incumbents may supervise management and non-management staff and act as project team leaders and manage programs and projects.  Project management responsibilities include preparing RFPs, evaluating proposals, and managing contractors and consultants. 

 

Environmental

This position will ensure the City’s compliance with applicable federal, state, and local regulatory agency requirements and guidelines pertaining to Air Quality, Water, Wastewater, Storm water, and Industrial waste.   This position will work with staff across multiple Divisions to develop, implement, and perform procedures and guidelines designed to ensure compliance and develop staff.  They will compose, compile, track, and analyze information related to regulatory, program, and compliance oversight. This position will act as SVP’s Subject Matter Expert and provide technical and functional advisement to Management and Staff concerning Environmental Compliance. This position requires in-depth knowledge of Federal, State, and Local laws/regulations. This position also requires the ability to forecast and identify compliance issues and to develop mitigation strategies to correct issues. The position will also assist in the development of budgets, service contracts and training programs.

Safety

This position establishes, implements, and enforces an effective department wide safety and compliance program that prevents injury and illness. They will work to ensure that employees, both management and non-management, comply with the rules and regulations of Federal, State and Local Regulatory Agencies, and that company safety and compliance policies and procedures are consistently followed.

The position will also facilitate the development and completion of the department’s compliance and controls register, controls testing and auditing, standards development and review, horizon scanning for new and changing regulatory requirements, and serving as an OSHA subject matter for the department. The position will also assist in the development of budgets, service contracts and training programs. 

System Operations

This position will administer programs for work management, maintenance monitoring and asset management focused in all areas of Utility Operations (Metering, Substations, Transmission and Distribution). This position will also be responsible for the performance, review, and implementation of improvements to these programs.  The position will develop, maintain, and improve SVP’s Outage Management System. This position will work to ensure compliance with all applicable NERC standards and seek constant improvement in SVP Work and Safety standards affecting System Operations. The position will also assist in the development of budgets, service contracts and training programs. 

As a member of the City's Unclassified Service, this is an "at-will" position and the incumbent serves at the discretion of the City Manager.  An incumbent in this classification:  demonstrates strong ethical, professional, and service-oriented leadership and interpersonal skills; sets a good example; and correctly applies the tenets of the City's Code of Ethics and values. 

 

 THIS RECRUITMENT MAY BE USED TO FILL MULTIPLE POSITIONS IN THIS, OR OTHER DIVISIONS OR DEPARTMENTS BESIDES THE POSITIONS LISTED BELOW.  IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN EMPLOYMENT IN THIS CLASSIFICATION, YOU SHOULD APPLY TO ENSURE YOU ARE CONSIDERED FOR ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITIES THAT MAY UTILIZE THE APPLICANTS FROM THIS RECRUITMENT. MEETING THE MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS DOES NOT GUARANTEE ADMITTANCE INTO THE EXAMINATION PROCESS.  ONLY THE MOST QUALIFIED CANDIDATES WHO DEMONSTRATE THE BEST COMBINATION OF QUALIFICATIONS IN RELATION TO THE REQUIREMENTS AND DUTIES OF THE POSITION WILL BE INVITED TO TEST OR INTERVIEW. 

This description may not include all the duties listed below, nor do the examples cover all duties that may be performed.

Under general direction, the incumbent will:
•    Plan, develop, implement, evaluate, and manage an assigned program or core department service area; Supervise subordinate supervisory, professional, technical, and/or clerical staff; participate in the selection, hiring, training, and coaching of staff; conduct performance evaluations; and implement disciplinary actions as required; 
•    Research and analyze program operations to ensure effective utilization of resources and increase productivity of work, provide regular reporting measures, conduct presentations, and make recommendations to management; 
•    Plan and implement work plans and projects for assigned area; 
•    Oversee daily operations of assigned program area and safety ensuring that all applicable regulatory requirements are followed; 
•    Develop and monitor resource models and/or programs in alignment with State, Federal and local regulations and policies; 
•    Deliver and manage communications to internal and external customers; 
•    Administer program budget, including budget preparation, forecasting, and monitoring expenses and revenue; 
•    Plan, implement, and monitor program or service area goals and objectives in alignment with Department goals to ensure effective programming and operations; 
•    Monitor and report on assigned area activities, including managing resources, tracking short and long-term work activities and provide recommendations to management staff to improve efficiency in assigned area; 
•    Serve as the subject matter expert in assigned specialty and provides consultation to subordinates, vendors, and management on assigned area of expertise; 
•    Set the standard for safety and adhere to all applicable safety and environmental standards and regulations, including City safety standards and policies; 
•    May act as a representative of the Department in assigned program or service area; 
•    Implement programs which may include such functions as scheduling, coordinating, and assigning staff to projects;
•    Oversee request for proposal processes, participate in the preparation of vendor contracts, negotiate contracts, and act as lead contract administrator for planned program objectives;
•    Prepare a variety of narrative and periodic reports to keep management informed of program/project status;
•    Implement program audit systems to ensure appropriate use of public funds;
•    Develop qualitative and quantitative measures to evaluate program/project financial status, customer satisfaction, contractor performance, and public relations;
•    Maintain current knowledge of external program trends and legislation to ensure necessary compliance;
•    May represent the Department and participate in regional and state efforts to meet compliance, legislative and societal goals;
•    Develop, implement and evaluate marketing and educational materials to present to internal and external customers;
•    Use City computer applications (including but not limited to Microsoft Suite) and databases to track program status and funds and use; 
•    Prepare reports, memos, and supporting documentation; 
•    May act as Division Manager on a temporary basis, as assigned; and
•    Perform other related duties as assigned.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
•    Education and experience equivalent to graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Economics, Public or Business Administration, Environmental Sciences, Finance or a closely-related field; AND
•    Three (3) years' experience leading, supervising, managing, and coordinating work including but not limited to, customer related programs, project management, building facilities management, or writing, developing or administering safety or environmental compliance standards; OR
•    Generation/Substation/Transmission and Distribution/System Operations Specialties:  Three (3) years of experience in a lead, supervisory, or senior role performing work, including but not limited to a Supervisor, Engineer, Manager, Lead Technician, or Foreperson,  

ACCEPTABLE SUBSTITUTION
•    For Generation/Substation/Transmission and Distribution/System Operations Specialties: additional years of experience in a role equivalent to, but not limited to a Control Room Operator, Electric Utility Technician, Engineer, Lineworker, or working in a lead, supervisory, or senior role performing work, including but not limited to a Supervisor, Manager, Lead Technician, or Foreperson may substitute for the degree requirement on a year for year basis up to four (4) years.
•    For Generation/Substation/Transmission and Distribution/System Operations Specialties: Two (2) years of experience working in a role equivalent to, but not limited to a Control Room Operator, Electric Utility Technician, Engineer, or Lineworker may be substituted for one (1) year of experience as a lead, supervisor, or senior role up to six (6) years.
•    Two (2) years of experience in customer related programs, project management, building facilities management, or writing, developing or administering safety or environmental compliance standards may be substituted one (1) year of experience as a lead, supervisor, manager, and coordinator experience up to six (6) years. 

LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS
Possession of a valid Class C California driver's license is required at the time of appointment and for the duration of employment.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS
•    An advanced degree in Engineering, Public or Business Administration, Environmental Sciences or related field is desirable.
•    When assigned to Systems and Project Management, a: Project Management Professional (PMP) certification from Project Management Institute (PMI) or an equivalent certification from accredited program is desirable.
•    When assigned to Generation/Substation/Transmission and Distribution/System Operations  Specialties, experience working in a power plant, substation,  transmission &  distribution, or Electric System Control Center environment is desirable.
•    When assigned to Safety Compliance, an in depth knowledge of OSHA and CalOSHA standards is desirable. 
•    When assigned to Environmental Compliance, an in-depth knowledge of Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasures (SPCC), Air Permits, and Water Permits is desirable. 

OTHER REQUIREMENTS
•    Must be able to perform all of the essential functions of the job assignment.
•    Incumbents may be subject to initial and periodic comprehensive background checks. 
•    May be required to work unusual hours and weekends in performance of their duties and be available on an "on call" basis.
 

Other Requirements:  

• Must be able to perform all of the essential functions of the job assignment.
• Incumbents may be subject to initial and periodic comprehensive background checks. 
• May be required to work unusual hours and weekends in performance of their duties and be available on an "on call" basis.

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 City Manager Directive 100.  

Meeting the minimum qualifications does not guarantee admittance into the examination process.  Only the most qualified candidates who demonstrate the best combination of qualifications in relation to the requirements and duties of the position will be invited to interview. 

 

Federal law requires all employees to provide verification of their eligibility to work in this country. Please be informed that the City of Santa Clara will not sponsor, represent, or sign documents related to visa applications/transfers for H1B or any other type of visa which requires an employer application. 

Knowledge of:
•    Local, State and Federal Laws related to environmental, safety, health, electrical system construction, maintenance, inspection, and NERC regulations pertaining Electric Utilities;
•    Best practice utility maintenance and project planning strategies and methods;
•    Cost-benefit and return on investment analysis for proposed programs
•    Basic understanding of Electric Utility economics, methodologies and principles; 
•    Best practice utility compliance, maintenance and operations methods; 
•    Electric department contract methodologies;
•    Project management tools and methodologies, including workload planning and budgeting;
•    Project and workload planning;
•    Preparation, negotiation, and administration of contracts and fiscal planning;
•    Negotiation techniques and strategies;
•    Principles and practices of customer service;
•    Research methods and statistical analysis;
•    Principles and practices of management, employee supervision, training, and performance evaluation;
•    Pertinent State, Federal, and Local laws and regulations for assigned specialty area; 
•    Problem solving and conflict resolution practices and techniques; and
•    Office safety practices, procedures and standards.

Ability to:
•    Develop, implement, and monitor programs and projects;
•    Effectively problem solve with various teams and management to improve and streamline processes;
•    Supervise staff in compliance with applicable Memorandum of Understandings
•    Analyze situations, identify problems, and exercise sound independent judgment within established guidelines;
•    Identify, research and gather relevant information from a variety of sources;
•    Collect and analyze data and prepare a variety of statistical and narrative reports;
•    Operate standard office equipment and learn City databases and software programs; 
•    Develop and maintain electronic databases;
•    Effectively develop, negotiate, and monitor contracts;
•    Interpret and apply laws and regulations, policies and procedures;
•    Communicate clearly and effectively both orally and in writing and carry out oral and written instructions;
•    Prepare and present clear, concise and complex written and oral reports and presentations;
•    Develop and conduct effective public relations programs on assigned specialty; 
•    Speak effectively before large groups of people;
•    Establish and maintain tactful, courteous and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work including the general public;
•    Work independently with minimal supervision;
•    Work effectively as a member of the department to achieve common goals and be able to deliver excellent customer service to both internal and external City clients;
•    Work effectively in time-sensitive situations and meet deadlines;
•    Coordinate multiple projects and complex tasks simultaneously;
•    Develop creative and practical solutions to complex and difficult problems; and
•    Bend, stoop, reach, carry, climb, and lift as necessary to perform assigned duties.
 

Additional Information: 

You must answer all job-specific questions in order to be considered for this vacancy or your application will be deemed incomplete and withheld from further consideration. Applications must be filled out completely (i.e. do not write “see resume or personnel file.”)  To receive consideration for the screening process, candidates must submit a 1) Cover Letter and, 2) Resume. Incomplete applications will not be accepted. Application packets may be submitted online through the “Apply Now” feature on the job announcement at www.santaclaraca.gov.  Applications will be reviewed on a weekly basis for consideration to the position.  If you are interested in applying you are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, before the position is closed. A first review of applications will be on September 18, 2023. 

 

The City of Santa Clara is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants for all job openings will be considered without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status or any other consideration made unlawful under any federal, state or local laws. The City of Santa Clara is committed to offering reasonable accommodations to job applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at (408) 615-2080 or HumanResources@santaclaraca.gov. 

The Department: 

SVP currently provides over 600 Megawatts of power to residential and business customers within Santa Clara, of which 40 percent of comes from carbon-free renewable resources. In addition to using green energy from large-scale wind, solar, geothermal and hydroelectric projects outside of the area, SVP employs innovative ways to locally produce electricity by operating Thermal Generation facilities utilizing Simple Cycle, Combined Cycle, and Cogeneration technologies. It is the mission of Silicon Valley Power to be a progressive, service-oriented utility, offering reliable, competitively priced services for the benefit of Santa Clara and its customers. Being competitive in the marketplace with a continuous focus on customer service, SVP can provide economic value to the City of Santa Clara and its customers while maintaining low residential rates and offering competitive rates for all customers.

The Position: 

This is a professional, management position in the unclassified service responsible for scheduling, purchasing, and managing Silicon Valley Power (SVP) electric and hydro energy requirements in the hour ahead and real-time markets by optimizing those resources and by dispatching the generation plants, scheduling water flows and making sales of surplus resources in order to serve our customers consistent with SVP"s risk parameters. This position requires working 12 hour day and night shifts along with holiday and weekend shifts. SVP operates a 24/7 real time desk which is the primary responsibility of this position.

This recruitment may be used to fill multiple positions in this, or other divisions or departments. If you are interested in employment in this classification, you should apply to ensure you are considered for additional opportunities that may utilize the applicants from this recruitment.   

THIS RECRUITMENT MAY BE USED TO FILL MULTIPLE POSITIONS IN THIS, OR OTHER DIVISIONS OR DEPARTMENTS BESDIES THE POSITIONS LISTED BELOW.  IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN EMPLOYMENT IN THIS CLASSIFICATION, YOU SHOULD APPLY TO ENSURE YOU ARE CONSIDERED FOR ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITIES THAT MAY UTILIZE THE APPLICANTS FROM THIS RECRUITMENT. MEETING THE MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS DOES NOT GUARANTEE ADMITTANCE INTO THE EXAMINATION PROCESS.  ONLY THE MOST QUALIFIED CANDIDATES WHO DEMONSTRATE THE BEST COMBINATION OF QUALIFICATIONS IN RELATION TO THE REQUIREMENTS AND DUTIES OF THE POSITION WILL BE INVITED TO TEST OR INTERVIEW.

As a member of the City's Unclassified Service, this is an "at-will" position and the incumbent serves at the discretion of the City Manager.  An incumbent in this classification:  demonstrates strong ethical, professional, and service-oriented leadership and interpersonal skills; sets a good example; and correctly applies the tenets of the City's Code of Ethics and values.

This description may not include all the duties listed below, nor do the examples cover all duties that may be performed.
Under general direction:
• Develop and submit schedules based on contract requirements and prudent economics to cover City load and to ensure the timely flow of Silicon Valley Power, South West (SW) electric and hydro resources;
• Coordinate energy, capacity, transmission, and ancillary service transactions with the appropriate broker, marketer, utility, generator, scheduling coordinator, and/or control area working within counter-party credit limits;
• Create and/or assess all electronic tags pursuant to Western Electric Coordinating Council (WECC)/ National Energy Regulatory Commission (NERC) Policies, South West (SW) business practices, and Independent System Operator (ISO) requirements;
• Adjust schedules real-time during emergency transmission derates or curtailments;
• Manage resources to meet NERC/SVP reliability criteria during all operating conditions;
• Determine resource costs and availability considering existing market conditions, generating plant limitations, maintenance, outages, transmission ratings and curtailments, and existing contract provisions;
• Conduct economic analysis of current resource options and market opportunities;
• Continually evaluate market conditions (including ISO ex-post prices, imbalance energy prices, ancillary service costs and transmission and congestion price differences), generating plant limitations, maintenance, outages, transmission ratings and curtailments, and existing contract provisions;
• Negotiate purchases and sales of energy, capacity, ancillary services and the purchase of transmission to meet load and SW trading objectives;
• Conduct economic analysis of current resource options and market opportunities;
• Determine optimal short-term use of existing power purchase contracts based on market information;
• Develop an hourly trading strategy for energy, capacity, transmission, and/or ancillary services by dispatching resources in a correct way;
• Evaluate and optimize the resources in real-time, to generation dispatch, capacity needs, energy, transmission and ancillary services purchases and sales;
• Utilize various market applications, including but not limited to California Independent System Operator (CISO) applications to submit capacity, energy, transmission, and ancillary service bids in power scheduling and power trading;
• Implement South West (SW) Trading Guidelines and management directives;
• Ensure that NERC/SVP reliability criteria are met;
• Prepare real-time documentation and reports for after-the-fact analysis;
• Develop pricing strategies for energy limited resources;
• Negotiate with assigned SW stakeholders
• Manage resources to meet WECC/NERC reliability criteria during all operating conditions;
• Work with trading staff to develop pricing strategy for energy-limited resources;
• Perform contingency analysis to develop optimized strategy for the dispatch of generation resources, and to optimize purchases and sales of capacity, energy, transmission, and ancillary service;
• Manage hydro reservoir levels and in-flows to ensure economic dispatch of SW’s projects;
• Prepare and submit all reports required as a scheduling coordinator including inter-tie, California Central System Operator (CISO), and South West (SW);
• Adjust/optimize/balance schedules to account for system outages;
• Provide training of co-workers;
• Forecast weather conditions by using like seasons, days and temperatures;
• Forecast customer energy requirements considering historical demands and applicable load shapes;
• Develop and maintain harmonious operations with interconnected utilities, wholesale entities, electric and hydro trading partners and other stakeholders through the use of effective communications practices; and
• Perform other related work as required.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Education and experience equivalent to:
•  Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, or a closely related field; and
• Three (3) years experience in public or private sector power scheduling or trading and/or Independent System Operator (ISO) scheduling.

LICENSE
Possession of a valid Class C California driver’s license is required at the time of appointment and for the duration of employment.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS
• Incumbents must have the ability to work, as assigned, to schedules that may include Saturdays, Sundays, holidays, and non-traditional work hours; and a willingness to work overtime as required.
• Candidates hired into this position may have to pass an initial and periodic, comprehensive background checks, which include fingerprinting, to meet Federal, State and/or industry security requirements.  Incumbents will have to meet any Federal (FERC and NERC) and State (CPUC) mandated certifications.
• Must be able to perform all of the essential functions of the job assignment.

Meeting the minimum qualifications does not guarantee admittance into the examination process.  Only the most qualified candidates who demonstrate the best combination of qualifications in relation to the requirements and duties of the position will be invited to interview.

Federal law requires all employees to provide verification of their eligibility to work in this country. Please be informed that the City of Santa Clara will not sponsor, represent, or sign documents related to visa applications/transfers for H1B or any other type of visa which requires an employer application.

Knowledge of:
• Wholesale and retail electric utility business, Hydro reservoir monitoring for optimum SW dispatch, dispatch of generation resources, production costs of energy by fuel type, system load characteristics and load curves;
• Market applications, including but not limited to ICE and CISO;
• Real-time evaluation and optimization procedures for generation dispatch, capacity needs, energy, transmission and ancillary services, purchases and sales;
• WECC/NERC policies and SW Business Practices;
• Trading procedures, systems to track and analyze capacity, energy, transmission, and ancillary service transactions, market strategies for wholesale purchases and sales of electricity and relevant trading directives;
• Schedule transactions, scheduling procedures, management directives, and how to solve scheduling conflicts;
• Scheduling and tagging procedures based on SW, CISO, WECC contract requirements and reporting requirements;
• Integrated power system operations and SW, NERC, FERC, and CISO policies, procedures, protocols and business practices;
• Research, planning and technical analysis for complex scheduling projects and preparation of reports including recommendations;
• Research methods and statistical analysis, complex spreadsheets and database applications and project and workload planning;
•  Work-related computer applications, including e-mail, word processing, spreadsheets, databases and the internet;
• Applicable laws, regulations and permits affecting the electric utility industry;
• Customer energy requirements and real-time weather forecasting, and
• Business practices, contract principles, financial statements, and economic analysis techniques.
Ability to:
• Apply the principles of power generation and transmission systems, including interconnected utility operations;
• Implement the integration of purchases and sales to economically reduce overall costs of energy and energy management systems;
• Interpret, explain and apply complex contracts, policies, protocols and business practices, implement strategies associated with short-term trading, and negotiate transactions;
• Interpret and explain complex contracts, policies, protocols, and business practices;
• Evaluate capacity, energy, and transmission transactions, implement market strategies to complete wholesale purchases of electricity, and perform economic analysis to determine benefit/cost of wholesale power market purchases and sales;
• Draw conclusions and project consequences of decisions and recommendations;
• Establish and maintain positive and effective relationships with City employees, contractors and other governmental representatives;
• Work as team player and be willing to deliver excellent customer service to both internal and external City clients;
• Communicate effectively both orally and in writing to consistently represent facts and situations accurately, transmit information concisely and in an effective manner, and present a balanced picture of situations;
• Prepare and present highly technical and complex written and oral reports;
• Work effectively in time-sensitive situations and meet deadlines; coordinate multiple projects and complex tasks simultaneously;
• Review and analyze important detailed and highly complex technical Electric Utility records and reports;
• Train and supervise the work of others in a team environment; and
• Walk or stand for extended periods of time and bend, stoop, reach, carry, crawl, climb, and lift as necessary to perform assigned duties.

Additional Information: 

You must answer all job-specific questions in order to be considered for this vacancy or your application will be deemed incomplete and withheld from further consideration. Applications must be filled out completely (i.e. do not write “see resume or personnel file.”)  To receive consideration for the screening process, candidates must submit a 1) Cover Letter and, 2) Resume. Incomplete applications will not be accepted. Application packets may be submitted online through the “Apply Now” feature on the job announcement at www.santaclaraca.gov.   Applications must be submitted by the filing deadline of Friday, August 25, 2023 at 4:00 PM. 

The City of Santa Clara is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants for all job openings will be considered without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status or any other consideration made unlawful under any federal, state or local laws. The City of Santa Clara is committed to offering reasonable accommodations to job applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at (408) 615-2080 or HumanResources@santaclaraca.gov.