Special Projects Coordinator / Engineering Co-op

Salary: $18.00 - $25.00 Hourly Location : Southfield, MI Job Type: Non-career Job Number: 20260011 Department: Water and Sewer Opening Date: 05/18/2026 Closing Date: 6/18/2026 5:00 PM Eastern Equal Opportunity Language: This announcement is only a summary of the position, its duties, job requirements and compensation. Further information is available from the Human Resources Department. The City of Southfield does not discriminate in its employment or any other programs or activities on the basis, of sex, race, color, age, height, weight, marital status, national origin, religion, arrest record, physical or mental disability, family status, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other protected category. We provide reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with a disability if requested. AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER M/F/V/H, DRUG FREE WORKPLACE ADA: Individuals with special needs who may require assistance with the application process should contact the Human Resources Department at (248) 796-4700 (voice) or via email at hrsupport@cityofsouthfield.com if auxiliary aids or services are needed. Reasonable advance notice is required. Description The Engineering Co-Op assists the Department of Public Works (DPW) with construction inspection, field data collection, and infrastructure compliance activities under the direct supervision of the Lead Engineering Technician and Compliance Manager. This position provides hands-on experience in municipal engineering projects, including water, sewer, and roadway systems, while supporting regulatory compliance and documentation efforts. What You'll DoGain hands-on experience in construction inspection and municipal infrastructure projectsLearn how to interpret engineering drawings and specifications in real-world applicationsAssist in materials observation, sampling, and testing (including concrete and asphalt)Participate in basic field and laboratory testing such as: Concrete slump, air content, and cylinder preparation Asphalt density, temperature checks, and compaction verificationDevelop skills in field reporting, measurements, and as-built documentationWork directly with experienced field staff and engineers on active projectsAssist in surveying, layout, and data collection using industry equipment Learning OutcomesDirect experience working in municipal field operationsExposure to construction inspection, materials testing, surveying, and infrastructure projectsUnderstanding of municipal standards, compliance requirements, and field practicesDevelopment of practical skills in surveying, measurements, testing, and engineering documentation Representative Job DutiesWork under the direction of a supervisor to support daily field operations and inspectionsPerform field observations and assist with inspections of: Roadway construction and maintenance Water main and sewer installations/repairs Concrete, asphalt, and utility-related workVerify contractors' work for compliance with plans, specifications, and City standardsAssist in documenting field conditions, quantities, and work progressPrepare daily inspection reports and field logsRecord measurements, quantities, and as-built information for project documentationAssist in identifying field issues and communicating them to supervisorsSupport coordination between contractors, inspectors, and DPW staffAssist with compliance-related inspections such as: Water service line material verification Cross-connection control inspections Lead and copper sampling supportCollect, input, and verify field and compliance dataAssist with ROW (Right-of-Way) Permits.Assist with FOG (Fats, Oil and Grease) ProgramAssist with maintaining records, reports, and documentation related to projects and compliance programsParticipate in site visits to verify existing conditions and assist in resolving field conflicts Survey & Layout SupportAssist with basic surveying tasks for municipal projectsOperate and support the use of survey equipment such as:GPS unitsTotal stationsLevels and rodsHelp establish reference points, elevations, and alignments in the fieldAssist in collecting and recording survey data for design verification and as-built purposesSupport layout and staking activities for construction projectsVerify field elevations, slopes, and locations against design plans Job Requirements - As Determined By the City Of SouthfieldCoursework in: Transportation engineering Surveying/Geomatics Construction management Environmental or water resources engineeringBasic understanding of construction plans, specifications, and materials testing proceduresFamiliarity with: AutoCAD, MicroStation, or GIS Survey equipment (GPS, total station, level) Microsoft Office Suite Knowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesAbility to follow direction and work under supervision in a field environmentStrong attention to detail for inspection, testing, and documentation tasksGood communication skills for interaction with contractors and team membersAbility to maintain accurate field records and reportsBasic problem-solving skills and willingness to learnAbility to work independently after receiving direction Supplemental Information Working ConditionsPrimarily a field-based position with some office support workExposure to construction sites, traffic, and weather conditionsRequires walking, standing, and occasional lifting The selection process will include a review of the applicant's experience for posted requirements, a criminal history check, and an oral board interview. Each step of the process must be passed before the applicant will be moved to the next step. Applicants will be invited to further participate in the selection process based on the nature and extent of their related experience. This position is not eligible for benefits.