The City of Bend is accepting applications for one (1) regular, full-time Principal Engineer in the Private Development Engineering Division of the Community Development Department. This is a non-represented, FLSA exempt (overtime ineligible) position. The City may use this job posting to create an eligibility list for future hiring purposes. Please review the entire job posting, including the application requirements at the end.
Reporting to the Private Development City Engineer, the Principal Engineer in Private Development Engineering serves as a key leader within the division. This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys complex challenges and is passionate about supporting staff. In this role you'll work on impactful construction projects throughout the project lifecycle, support inspection staff, and mentor junior engineers. The Principal Engineer will help shape some of Bend's largest developments including large subdivisions and mixed-use buildings while tackling complex infrastructure issues related to urban density and storm water regulation.
Classification Framework: Principal Engineer
What You'll Do
The following duties are a sample of major duties performed in this role and not intended to be an exhaustive list.
- Work in the field supporting the Inspection Team and interacting with the development community. Use communication skills to resolve conflict and facilitate productive, solution-focused conversation based on Standards and Specifications.
- Provide supervision and support for Engineering Inspectors by understanding challenges, offering guidance, and developing strategies to improve processes.
- Supervise and mentor Private Development Engineering staff. Provide leadership and guidance with a focus on employee development and growth.
- Partner and collaborate with other Division Leaders in Community Development as member of the Community Development Department Management Team.
- Evaluate multiple sources of information and use analytical and evaluative judgement to problem-solve challenges related to specifications and, with approval from the Private Development City Engineer, implement creative solutions.
- Review complex Private Development plans
Ideal Candidate
We’re looking for someone who is detail-oriented, analytical, and likes to find solutions to challenging situations. The ideal candidate will be a strong communicator who is comfortable with difficult conversations and thrives in a collaborative environment. They will bring a customer service mindset to their work ensuring customers feel heard when navigating complex situations. Highly qualified candidates will have construction management experience, and experience preparing plans and managing construction as an engineer of record. The ideal candidate will have engineering experience in Bend due to its unique geology and construction environment.
Candidates who meet the listed minimum qualifications, including an equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered for an interview. Please ensure your application includes information about your education, relevant paid and unpaid work experience, and applicable licenses and certifications. Avoid referencing your resume in the job duties section of the application.
Minimum Qualifications:
The following are the minimum qualifications for this position.
- Bachelor’s degree (B.A./B.S.) from a four-year college or university in Civil Engineering or an equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities as outlined in this job description.
- 6 to 8 years' experience with 2 to 3 years of people management experience in a similar position and/or performing similar tasks.
Required Licenses & Certifications:
- Certification as a Professional Engineer in the State of Oregon required or ability to acquire within six months of appointment.
- Current and valid Driver's license per City policies outlined in the Employee Handbook
Desired (but not required) Attributes:
What to Know Before Applying
Application Deadline: Applications received by Tuesday, January 20, 2026, 12:00 PM (noon) Pacific Time will be included in the second round of review, but the position will remain open until filled. Initial review Tuesday, December 9, 2025, 12:00 PM (noon) Pacific Time.
Application Requirements: To be considered for an interview, applicants must complete an online application including the following attachments (failure to include required attachments may result in disqualification):
• Cover Letter
• Resume
• Valid Credentials, Certifications and Licensing
Veterans’ Preference: Applicants seeking Veterans’ Preference as a qualified veteran or disabled veteran must attach appropriate documentation to their application. For more information click here.
Equity Statement: The City of Bend remains committed to building a workforce that advances diversity and inclusion within our community and all we do. We recognize that not everyone starts from the same place, and that gender, race, ability, sexual orientation, and other identities face different barriers. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and are dedicated to creating an inclusive, safe, and respectful workplace where employees can thrive without these barriers. A more extended version of the City of Bend’s Organizational Equity Statement is available upon request.
Benefits: The City of Bend offers an excellent competitive benefits package for Employees and Dependents for health and dental coverage, retirement benefits, and a robust paid leave program. Details are available on the benefits tab of the job posting.
Starting Compensation: Starting compensation is determined based on a pay equity analysis considering the candidate’s education, applicable work experience, and internal equity. Please include all relevant information on your application.
