County Engineer

Job Description

County Engineer

Pacific County, Washington

Salary: $107,808 – $149,220

Named after the Pacific Ocean, Pacific County is located in the southwestern corner of Washington state and is bordered by the Pacific Ocean on the west, and the mouth of the great Columbia River on the south. Home to approximately 24,357 residents, the County’s four incorporated cities, Raymond, South Bend, Long Beach, and Ilwaco, and the County’s five unincorporated communities, each have a unique place in the County’s rich history dating back to the mid 1800’s. The county seat, South Bend, is known as the gateway to unincorporated Willapa Bay, and is a community of docks, fishing boats, and oyster-processing plants. The City is also home to a nationally recognized county courthouse with a picturesque dome and regal grounds. Willapa Bay, just west of South Bend, is one of the most pristine estuaries in the nation, where residents and visitors can kayak or canoe and see bald eagles, hawks, egrets, and Roosevelt elk.

Pacific County’s Public Works Department provides services necessary to efficiently construct, operate and maintain the County-owned transportation, facilities, telecommunication, and computer system infrastructure, and functions with a total of 54.25 FTEs on a FY2026 budget of $12.3 million.

Reporting to the Public Works Director, the County Engineer is responsible for the planning, administration, and coordination of engineering and related activities involving Pacific County roads. The position exercises considerable independent judgment in interpreting and applying laws, regulations, and County policies governing road design, construction, and maintenance. The County Engineer oversees the design and maintenance of County roads, bridges, drainage systems, and related infrastructure, including project scoping, program development, construction management, and inspection. Additional responsibilities include reviewing and approving engineering plans and specifications associated with development; establishing County engineering and construction standards; preparing project cost estimates; and examining and certifying project expenses. Working closely with the Public Works Director and Board of County Commissioners, the County Engineer helps develop the County’s annual and six-year road programs and provides technical guidance on County and departmental matters. The position also serves as a liaison to local, state, and federal agencies; County officials; contractors and consultants; and the public. As a supervisor, the County Engineer directs and evaluates staff, supports employee development, addresses workplace concerns, and promotes teamwork, effective communication, and continuous improvement.

Education & Experience: A bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or a related engineering field is required, along with a current Washington State Professional Engineer license in Civil Engineering or the ability to obtain one within six months of hire. The County may consider any satisfactory combination of experience and training that, in the opinion of the Board of County Commissioners, demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to successfully perform the position’s responsibilities.

Benefits include: Medical insurance for employee and dependents. Dental and vision insurance. VEBA. Life insurance. Washington PERS. 12 paid holidays plus one floating holiday. Flexible allowed time off as needed. Longevity incentive beginning after five years of service. Post-secondary education incentive.

For a complete position profile, full job description, and to apply online, visit the Prothman Company at https://www.prothman.com/ and click on “Open Recruitments”. For questions, call 206-368-0050. Pacific County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Apply by November 8, 2026 (open until filled). Applications will be reviewed as submitted.