Consulting Engineer (Planning & Project Development - MEP)

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About This Position Austin Energy's Corporate Support Services Division, within the Planning and Project Development Section, is seeking a full‑time Consulting Engineer to lead a diverse portfolio of vertical and horizontal construction projects, as well as space reconfiguration initiatives that support Austin Energy's mission‑critical operations. This role is responsible for managing projects from concept through close‑out, working closely with engineers, architects, and other partners to define project specifications and ensure alignment with organizational objectives. The Consulting Engineer will coordinate with the Capital Contracting Office and City of Austin Purchasing to negotiate and execute contracts, and will facilitate the acquisition of permits and licenses from all applicable regulatory authorities. The position requires determining resource needs-including staffing, equipment, and materials-while maintaining strict adherence to budgetary constraints. Responsibilities include planning all construction activities, sequencing work to meet key deadlines, acquiring and monitoring equipment and materials, and ensuring timely resolution of any supply or performance issues. The engineer will oversee consultants and contractors, ensuring compliance with contract terms and technical requirements, while evaluating construction progress, preparing detailed project reports, and maintaining adherence to all health and safety standards. In addition to construction oversight, the role includes space planning, interior renovations, and furniture procurement, as well as the development of preliminary project plans, contract documents, permitting packages, construction administration materials, and post‑construction deliverables. The engineer will prepare scoping documents, contract exhibits, and other materials needed to convey design intent for mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and related building systems. Operating under limited supervision, the successful candidate will apply extensive knowledge of the City of Austin Building Technical Codes, the International Building Code, and the Land Development Code to interpret, implement, and ensure compliance with design standards for Austin Energy projects. The position will also support inquiries from the Mayor and City Council, the City Manager's Office, and various agencies regarding Austin Energy facilities, and will represent the utility at public meetings involving neighborhood groups, community stakeholders, boards, commissions, and other regional or local entities. This role requires frequent travel to multiple sites for project assessments, stakeholder meetings, field condition evaluations, and contractor or vendor coordination. Physical activities such as walking, lifting, and bending with or without accommodations are necessary to successfully perform the duties of this position. Job Description: Consulting Engineer Purpose: Under nominal direction, this position is accountable for interpreting, organizing, executing, and coordinating assignments. This position plans and develops engineering projects concerned with unique or controversial problems which have an important effect on major City programs or projects. This position serves as technical expert in a related area. Duties, Functions and Responsibilities: Essential duties and functions, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following. Other related duties may be assigned. Develops or oversees development of technical specifications and standards by applying knowledge of the principles and practices of discipline engineering including the methods, materials, equipment, and techniques used. Reviews, analyzes, and interprets plans, specifications, contracts, and other related documents. Manages and coordinates programs or projects by reviewing and monitoring projects or programs, including the review of plans and development proposals for impacts related to project or program. Plans, research, designs, and implements engineering studies and projects or program areas by applying advanced technical knowledge of engineering discipline. Manages and negotiates contracts by reviewing monthly progress reports, verifying final quantities and costs, compiling requisite documentation, reviewing change orders, and auditing as-built records. Acts as a liaison among consultants, contractors, subcontractors, manufacturers, fabricators, or suppliers and the City. Negotiates problems of changes, errors, or deficiencies and ensures compliance with project specifications and requirements. Interacts with internal and external customers to ensure requirements and needs are satisfied. Reviews plans and provides recommendation changes, solutions, or implementation. Monitors projects for regulatory compliance by providing consultation and determinations in matters involving application and interpretation of regulations and policies. Manages or leads teams of technical personnel incl