Job Description
Public Works and Engineering Specialist
Job Type: Full-time Permanent
Job Posting #: 2026-36
Closing Date: November 24, 2026
Group: CUPE 1189-00
Department: Public Works and Engineering
Location: Owen Sound, ON
The City of Owen Sound is seeking a highly organized and customer-focused professional to join our team as Public Works and Engineering Specialist. Reporting to the Manager of Public Works and Engineering, this position provides administrative and technical support across Engineering Services, Environmental Services, and Public Works Operations, serving as a key point of contact for residents, contractors, consultants, developers, and utility providers.
This role offers an opportunity to contribute to the planning, coordination, and delivery of municipal infrastructure programs and services that support our growing community.
This posting is for an existing vacancy.
What You’ll Do
Engineering Services
- Coordinate and administer engineering-related permits and approvals, including Temporary Encroachment Permits, Municipal Consent Applications, Boulevard Parking Permits, utility corridor permits, and other right-of-way approvals.
- Review submissions for completeness and coordinate circulation with internal departments, consultants, utilities, and external stakeholders.
- Maintain permit tracking systems and ensure timely processing and communication with applicants.
- Serve as the primary point of contact for engineering-related inquiries received through phone, email, online requests, and in-person visits.
- Respond to questions regarding municipal infrastructure, construction activities, engineering standards, development servicing requirements, and related municipal services.
- Assist with capital project administration, agreement tracking, project documentation, reporting, and correspondence.
- Prepare notices, agreements, reports, forms, and other documentation supporting engineering projects and permit administration.
Environmental Services Support
- Support programs and initiatives related to Environmental Services.
- Assist with the administration and coordination of consultant and contractor activities related to landfill monitoring, leachate hauling and disposal, leaf and yard waste operations, environmental monitoring programs, and waste diversion initiatives.
- Track contractor deliverables and maintain project and contract records.
- Assist with regulatory reporting, compliance documentation, record management, and customer service requests.
- Provide ongoing administrative support to support operational continuity within Environmental Services.
Public Works Operational Support
- Support infrastructure management and condition assessment programs.
- Assist with traffic sign reflectivity assessments, sidewalk condition inspections, road scanning initiatives, asset inventory updates, road occupancy notifications, and seasonal maintenance programs.
- Coordinate service requests, work order tracking, contractor communications, and operational reporting.
- Maintain program information and performance data to support service delivery and long-term planning.
What We’re Looking For
Education & Experience
- Diploma in Civil Engineering Technology, Construction Engineering Technology, Environmental Engineering Technology, or a related field. Equivalent combinations of education and directly related municipal experience may be considered.
- Candidates with Municipal Administration, Business Administration, or GIS backgrounds are encouraged to apply if they possess relevant municipal infrastructure experience.
- Minimum one (1) year of experience in a municipal, engineering, infrastructure, construction, or related environment.
- Experience working with contractors, consultants, regulatory agencies, and the public.
- Experience supporting capital projects, permit administration, contract administration, project coordination, or infrastructure operations is considered an asset
Skills & Competencies
- Strong interpersonal, communication, customer service, organizational, and analytical skills.
- Knowledge of municipal engineering, public works, environmental services, and infrastructure operations.
- Ability to interpret engineering drawings, plans, permits, technical reports, and municipal standards.
- Strong project coordination and permit administration skills.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and municipal software systems.
- Ability to exercise sound judgment, diplomacy, and professionalism when interacting with the public, consultants, contractors, and City staff.
- Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a collaborative team environment.
Assets
- AMCTO Municipal Administration Program coursework.
- OACETT membership or eligibility for membership.
- Experience related to asset management, municipal permit administration, project administration, or contract administration.
- Ontario Traffic Manual (OTM) Book 7 Traffic Control certification.
- Knowledge of municipal infrastructure systems, including roads, water distribution, wastewater collection, stormwater management, and related public works assets.
Other Requirements
- Valid Ontario Class G driver’s licence in good standing.
- Ability to work both in an office environment and occasionally in the field.
- Demonstrated commitment to workplace health and safety and compliance with applicable legislation and City policies.
Compensation & Benefits
- Wage: $31.90 – $37.53 hourly, 35 hours per week.
- Benefits: Comprehensive employer-paid Extended Health & Dental plan, and OMERS defined benefit pension plan.
Why Join Us?
Join a dynamic municipal team that plays a vital role in maintaining and improving the infrastructure that supports our community every day. You’ll have the opportunity to work on a diverse range of engineering, environmental, and public works initiatives while developing your skills in a collaborative and supportive environment.
Why Owen Sound?
Owen Sound offers the perfect balance of professional opportunity and quality of life. Located on the shores of Georgian Bay, our community features a vibrant arts and culture scene, exceptional outdoor recreation, and a welcoming small-city atmosphere.
How to Apply:
Interested candidates should submit their applications via the City’s Careers Page. We are committed to inclusive, barrier-free recruitment and encourage applications from all qualified individuals. Accommodations are available upon request.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:
The City of Owen Sound values diversity and is committed to providing an inclusive workplace. We will accommodate the needs of applicants in accordance with the Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act throughout the hiring process.
The City of Owen Sound is committed to a fair, transparent, and people-centred recruitment process. While modern tools may assist in administrative tasks, all hiring decisions are made by people, and every application is reviewed by a member of our Human Resources team.
We do not use automated decision-making or artificial intelligence tools to screen out or eliminate applicants. Any technology used in the hiring process is designed solely to support efficiency—not to replace human judgment or evaluate applicant suitability.
Privacy Statement:
We thank all applicants for their interest; only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Personal information is collected under the authority of the Municipal Act for the purpose of candidate selection. It will be maintained in accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.
