Published date: January 5, 2026
Job Title: Public Works Supervisor III – GEOTECH
Organization: Snohomish County – Public Works, Engineering Services – GEOTECH
Address: 3000 Rockefeller Ave M/S 503, Everett, WA
Job Website Link: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/snohomish
Short Description:
Snohomish County Public Works is offering an exciting career opportunity as a Public Works Supervisor III position in our Engineering Services Geotechnical Group.
As a Public Works Supervisor III, you will oversee a team of geologists, engineers, technicians, and consultants to support road maintenance and transportation design work. You will also oversee our materials testing lab and drilling operations.
We are looking for a geotechnical engineer who has experience with geotechnical design, project management, communications skills and team leadership. Typical activities include geotechnical design of complex projects such as bridge foundations including shafts and piles, culverts, retaining walls, embankments, cut/fill slopes, landslide remediation, and pavements.
The candidate will have the ability to mentor and develop staff, stay organized and manage many projects, be a clear and friendly communicator and be part of the management team. The successful candidate will also work cooperatively with other divisions, departments, consultant and stakeholders.
A Professional Engineer (PE) or an Engineering Geologist (LEG) license is required for this position with experience in geotechnical work to stamp the typical work activities listed above.
Job Category: Supervisory
Job Type: Full time
Job Ref. Code: 2025-PWK8762R-DEC
Salary and Benefits Information: $110,288.40 – $134,109.96 Annually, with Retirement and Medical Benefit options
Full Description:
BASIC FUNCTION
To supervise a section or work group of professional employees performing complex engineering, scientific, right of way, surveying or planning assignments requiring the application of a broad range of engineering or planning principles and methods.
Distinctions in levels are determined based upon the size of staff, the number of areas and the level of knowledge and experience necessary to perform effectively, scope of program responsibility and the overall impact of the function on the department and community.
Any position within the series may perform duties associated with any of the other positions in the series. Reclassifications within the series should only be made when a particular position meets on a routine basis a preponderance of characteristics that distinguish one position in the class from another.
STATEMENT OF BASIC DUTIES OF CLASS
Plans and directs all office and field activities related to a specific section or work group function.
Acts as a technical resource for staff resolving problems; oversees the preparation of plans, designs, reports and documents necessary to carry out functions and operations of the work group while remaining consistent with county and department standards, principles, methods and priorities; signs off on appropriate documents as required.
Assigns, supervises and evaluates the work of subordinate employees as required; advises, assists and trains subordinates as necessary; participates in the selection of new employees, and makes recommendations regarding the hiring, discipline, and termination of subordinate employees.
Develops and implements policies, procedures and budgets related to specific section or work group functions and ensures that area of operations complies with applicable federal and state laws, regulations and guidelines, and with county ordinances, policies and procedures.
Coordinates operations and promotes partnership with other county departments and programs, outside agencies, citizen groups and the general public as necessary; provides technical assistance to other public agencies or sections as required.
Supervises or participates in the conduct and review of studies, needs assessments and other activities used to plan or evaluate services provided by the section or work group; drafts recommended modifications to applicable ordinances, regulations, policies, procedures and standards.
Prepares reports and recommendations to the County Council, various community groups and outside agencies as necessary; may conduct or participate in public hearings to explain program plans and solicit public input.
Responds to inquiries from the public regarding specific problems or issues in area of assignment.
Prepares grant applications and other documents to obtain alternative or supplemental funding sources for programs; negotiates and administers participation contracts with groups, agencies and individuals; maintains liaison with representatives of funding agencies as necessary.
Recommends modifications to county codes and associated regulations, procedures and engineering standards.
Prepares short term and long range work program and service plans which identify and prioritize proposed projects and programs.
Assists the division manager in developing and implementing systems, programs, and long range plans to provide for effective DPW operations.
Advises a director or manager on the need for public information and involvement efforts; directs design and implementation of such efforts.
Performs other related duties as assigned.
Distinguishing Characteristic of Class:
May regularly interact with outside agencies.
Position involves either the highest level of technical proficiency in one field or is responsible for two or more professional fields.
Position may play a lead role in managing controversial issues.
Position regularly represents the division in decision oriented meetings.
Position develops or controls work group budget.
Minimum Qualifications
A Bachelor of Science or Arts degree in a professional field related to the group function and five (5) years of professional level experience with at least two (2) years of supervisory/lead experience within the area of specialization; OR, any equivalent combination of education and experience which provides the required knowledge, skill and ability to perform the work. Must pass job related tests.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
Professional Engineer License for engineering position or appropriate professional certification or recognition in non-engineering fields.
A valid Washington State Driver’s License is required.
Job offers are contingent on successful completion of reference and background checks. Snohomish County will not sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa for this opportunity. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States.
Additional Information
KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES
Knowledge of:
principles, practices and techniques in area of assignment
federal, state and local laws, rules and regulations related to area of assignment
the principles and practices of planning, organization and supervision;
the principles, practices and procedures associated with budget preparation and administration
the methods and techniques used in conducting engineering or scientific studies and needs assessments
if applicable to the position, the principles and practices of grant writing, contract negotiation and administration
the literature, trends and developments in the area of specialty
Ability to:
develop inter-local agreements and funding strategies to provide effective service levels to the community
manage consultant contracts for the planning, design and/or construction of major public works projects
plan, coordinate and administer a functional area of DPW
supervise and evaluate the work of subordinate employees
develop work plans, schedules and budgets
allocate and make effective use of available resources
assess the relative advantages and disadvantages of alternative courses of action
gather, analyze, synthesize and evaluate a variety of data including statistical data
read, interpret and apply federal, state and local laws, rules and regulations governing area of assignment
analyze and evaluate operations and take effective action to correct deficiencies and resolve problems
establish and maintain effective working relationships with elected officials, department heads, associates, subordinates, representatives of other agencies and with the general public
lead programs with public groups
communicate effectively, both orally and in writing
prepare a variety of correspondence, reports, and other written materials and documents
SUPERVISION
The employee reports to and receives direction from a manager or director. The employee supervises at least five full time staff and may supervise temporary employees. The work requires considerable independent judgment and discretion in developing and achieving work unit goals and objectives. The work is reviewed through meetings and periodic status reports, and by evaluation of results obtained.
Distinguishing Characteristic of Class:
Supervises a group of employees in technical or professional classifications.
Reports to a Manager or Director.
Supervises five or more positions.
WORKING CONDITIONS
The work is performed in an office environment and may require frequent field trips to locations throughout the county to make site visits, attend meetings, or coordinate work activities. Meetings or project requirements may involve working evenings, weekends or holidays as necessary.