Assistant Engineer

Essential Requirements

An Assistant Engineer is currently the entry grade for the four tiers of engineering posts within Offaly County Council. These range from Assistant Engineer through to Executive, Senior Executive and Senior Engineer grades. Assistant Engineers work as part of a multi-disciplinary team within one of the previously outlined Local Authority Directorates to deliver key local authority services. These include social housing; transportation infrastructure; environmental protection; water, wastewater, & solid waste, recreation and amenity provision and community development.  Local Authorities also play a key role in supporting economic development and enterprise promotion at local level.

The Assistant Engineer will from time to time be required to deputise for Executive Engineers or more senior personnel and must be willing to take on this challenge. The ideal candidate will be a highly motivated person, with a strong sense of commitment to delivering quality public services and shall demonstrate a clear knowledge and understanding of:

• Local authority services, its key stakeholders and relationships
• Local government structures and its democratic role and mandate
• Current local government issues, future trends and strategic direction of the sector
• Key policies guiding the local government sector
• Fostering and maintaining wide ranging productive working relationship both internally and externally to the organisation
• Managing and implementing change
• Public Works Contracts

·       Public Service values

ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR THE POST

The ideal candidate should also have a good technical knowledge base and experience of engineering practices to include the following:

• Planning and costing of projects
• Contract administration
• Project management
• Managing Health, Safety and Welfare in the workplace
• Administration and report writing
• Operating ICT systems
• Prioritising of work effectively
• Acting on own initiative
• Dealing effectively with conflicting demands
• Working under pressure to tight deadlines

COMPETENCIES FOR THE POST

Key Competencies for the post include the following and candidates will be expected to demonstrate sufficient evidence within their application form of competence under each of these. Please take particular note of these when completing the application form as any short-listing or interview processes will be based on the information provided by candidates:

Engineering Practice / Relevant Knowledge

Experience of the practical application of:

·       Engineering Design and/or Construction Project Management

·       Contract and construction processes, procedures and practices

·       Health and Safety legislation

Delivering Results

·       Problem solving and decision making

·       Organising work programmes and implementing solutions

·       Managing Resources and achieving efficiencies

·       Delivering Quality Outcomes

Performance through People

·       Leads by example, Directing and Motivating

·       Managing Performance

·       Communicating Effectively

·       Effectively identifies and manages conflict

Personal Effectiveness

·       Resilience and Personal Well-Being

·       Integrity & Public Service Values

·       Personal Motivation and Initiative

·       Qualifications & Knowledge - keeps up with current and emerging developments, trends and best practise in this area.

·       Understanding the structures and environment within which the local authority sector operates

·       Political awareness

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Details of Key Duties and Responsibilities are outlined under “Particulars of Office”

QUALIFICATIONS

1.     Education, Training, Experience, etc.

Each candidate must, on the latest date for receipt of completed application forms:

(a)   (i) hold at least an ordinary bachelors degree (level 7 or higher on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) in Engineering*;

OR

(ii) hold an ordinary bachelors degree (level 7 or higher on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) and a post graduate masters degree (level 9 NFQ) in Engineering;

OR

(iii) hold a masters degree (level 9 on the National Framework of Qualifications) in Engineering attained after completing an integrated masters level programme of at least 4 years duration and which is accredited at CEng level by Engineers Ireland or an equivalent accreditation body internationally;

(b)  have at least two years satisfactory relevant engineering experience;

(c)   possess a high standard of technical training and experience;

(d)  have a satisfactory knowledge of public service organisation or the ability to acquire such knowledge.

*Please Note:

Criteria for evaluating the educational requirements outlined in (a) (i) are clarified by the LGMA and Department. The clarification has provided, i.e. Legacy awards of Diploma/National Diploma in Engineering at level 7 are the equivalent of an Ordinary Degree in Engineering level 7.  This is also the position of Engineers Ireland as confirmed on their website: https://www.engineersireland.ie/Professionals/Membership/Frequently-asked-questions/Accreditation#19781003-what-were-the-titles-of-qualifications-awarded-before-2005

A level 7 degree will be assessed on the basis that the period of study undertaken should be equivalent to at least 180 ECTS (European Credit Transfer Accumulation System) credits. Full transcripts for each year of study must be attached to your application displaying the number of ECT Credits undertaken for each year.

Candidates should be aware that fulfilling the eligibility requirements for this post should not be taken as indicating that your current qualification would be acceptable for more senior engineering posts (i.e. Senior Executive Engineer and above) which have different eligibility requirements.

N.B. Copies of qualifications must be attached to support this application. Failure to provide qualifications will deem this application invalid.

2.     Citizenship

Candidates for any of the above panels must, by the date of any job offer, be:

a)     A citizen of the European Economic Area (EEA). The EEA consists of the Member States of the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway; or

b)    A citizen of the United Kingdom (UK); or

c)     A citizen of Switzerland pursuant to the agreement between the EU and Switzerland on the free movement of persons; or

d)    A non-EEA citizen who is a spouse or child of an EEA or UK or Swiss citizen and has a stamp 4 visa; or

e)     A person awarded international protection under the International Protection Act 2015 or any family member entitled to remain in the State as a result of family reunification and has a stamp 4 visa; or

f)      A non-EEA citizen who is a parent of a dependent child who is a citizen of, and resident in, an EEA member state or the UK or Switzerland and has a stamp 4 visa.

3.     Driving Licence

The Holder of the Post of shall hold a full driving licence for Class B vehicles free from endorsement/disqualification. When required to do so, holders of office shall drive a vehicle in the course of their duties and for this purpose provide and maintain a car to the satisfaction of the local authority.

4.     Character

Candidates shall be of good character.

5.     Health

Each candidate must be in a state of health such as would indicate a reasonable prospect of ability to render regular and efficient service.

* Non-Irish Qualifications must be accompanied by a determination from Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) to establish their comparability against the Irish National Framework of Qualifications, overseas qualifications must also be accompanied by a translation document.

PARTICULARS OF OFFICE

1.     The Post:

The post is permanent, whole-time and pensionable. A panel will be formed for an initial period of one year and this may be extended for a period of time at the discretion of the Chief Executive. The panel will be used to fill appropriate positions that may arise for its duration. Positions will be offered in order of merit as per the panel.

2.     Salary:

The salary shall be fully inclusive and shall be as determined from time to time.  Holders of the post will be paid at the appropriate point on the salary scale in accordance with the relevant Department Circular.   Starting pay for new entrants will be at the minimum of the scale.  Where the appointee has been serving elsewhere in the public service in an analogous grade and pay-scale, and will be moving without break to another part of the public sector at an analogous grade, the appointment may be made at the appointee’s current point of scale.  The rate of remuneration may be adjusted from time to time in line with Government pay.

The current salary scale applicable to the post is €48,248 - €74,809 LSI 2

3.     Duties:

The duties of the post are to give to the local authority, and

a)     such other local authorities or bodies for which the Chief Executive, for the purposes of the Local Government Acts 2001 and 2014, is Chief Executive, and

b)    to any other local authority or body with which an agreement has been made by the local authority, or by any of the authorities or bodies mentioned in subparagraph (a) of this paragraph under the general direction and supervision of the Chief executive or such other employee as the Chief Executive may from time to time determine, such appropriate services of an executive, administrative or management nature as may be required by any local authority or body herein before mentioned in the exercise and performance of any of its powers, functions and duties to exercise such powers, functions and duties as may be delegated to him/her by the Chief Executive from time to time, including the duty of servicing all committees that may be established by any such local authority or body. The post holder will, if required, act for an employee of a higher level. The post holder may be required to work outside his/her normal job description from time to time.

The duties to be assigned include the following although this list is not exhaustive and may be reviewed from time to time as organisational needs require:

·     Carrying out of engineering and ancillary duties as assigned and provide support to senior personnel within the relevant divisions of the local authority.

·     Designing and preparing contract documentation and making recommendations on appointment of successful contractors.

·     Preparing and managing framework panels ensuring adherence to procurement requirements

·     Preparing ‘Part 8’ planning documentation and consultation processes to include liaison with elected members, government departments, state agencies, and other relevant stakeholders.

·     Contract administration of construction, operations, and maintenance works.

·     Supervise employee and contractors as required.

·     Preparing and effectively managing budgets where responsibility for project delivery has been specifically assigned.

·     Identifying opportunities for improvements or efficiencies in service delivery .

·     To propose improvements in the effectiveness and efficiency of existing practices or systems.

·     Maintaining and proactively developing a culture of Health and Safety in the workplace.

·     Ensuring compliance with Health and Safety legislation and regulations, and Offaly County Council’s Safety Management Systems.

·     Ensuring works are implemented in compliance with all relevant legislation and regulations including planning and procurement.

·     Dealing efficiently, effectively and professionally at all times with stakeholders including local authority staff, elected members, community groups, businesses and residents.

·     Liaising with and responding to other local authorities, government departments and statutory agencies where required.

·     Compiling, preparing and presenting reports as necessary to a variety of stakeholders.

·     Carrying out duties in a politically neutral and impartial manner that enhances public trust and confidence in the local authority decision making process.

·     To act or deputise for senior personnel in their absence when required.

·     Undertaking any other duties of a similar level and responsibility, as may be required, or assigned, from time to time.

4. Work Base:

Offaly County Council reserves the right to assign you to any department or premises in use by the Council, now or in the future. Changes in location of employment will not result in payment of disturbance money or other compensation. The person appointed will be required to provide him/herself at his/her own expense with the necessary mode of travel to and from work.

5. Working Hours:

The working hours at present provide for a five day, thirty-five hours working week, hours may vary from time to time.

The working hours may be reviewed at any time by the Council. The post may require flexibility in working outside of normal hours, including at weekends, as necessary. No additional remunertation will be paid in respect of such activities.

The provisions of Offaly County Council’s Time and Attendance Policy is applicable to this grade at the current time. A flexible working hours system is in operation subject to the terms and conditions of the Time and Attendance Policy.

6. Annual Leave:

The current annual leave entitlement is 30 days. Granting of annual leave, payment for annual leave and arrangement for public holidays will be governed by the provisions of the Organisation of Working Time Act, 1997 (as amended)

7. Sick Leave:

The terms of the Public Service Sick Pay Scheme will prevail.

8.Probation:

Appointees will be on probation for the first year of employment. The terms of the Offaly County Council Probation Policy will apply.

9. Superannuation:

Public Service Pensions (Single Scheme and Other Provisions) Act 2012: New members joining the Public Sector on or after 1st January, 2013 will be required to join the Single Public Service Pension Scheme. The Single Scheme applies to all pensionable first-time entrants to the Public Service as well as to former public servants returning to the public service after a break of more than 26 weeks. A rate of PRSI contribution will be required in respect of their superannuation to contribute to the local authority at the rate of 3% of their pensionable remuneration plus 3.5%, of net pensionable remuneration (i.e. pensionable remuneration less twice the annual rate of social insurance old age contributory pension payable at the maximum rate to a person with no adult dependant or qualified children). This includes a contribution to a Spouse’s and Children’s Scheme. Pension and retirement lump sum based on career-average pay, pensions will be co-ordinated with the State Pension Contributory (SPC).

For persons who commenced public sector employment prior to 1st January 2013: Persons who become pensionable employees of a local authority who are liable to pay the Class A rate of PRSI contribution will be required in respect of their superannuation to contribute to the local authority at the rate of 1.5% of their pensionable remuneration plus 3.5% of net pensionable remuneration (ie. pensionable remuneration less twice the annual rate of social insurance old age contributory pension payable at the maximum rate to a person with no adult dependent or qualified children).

Persons who become pensionable employees of a local authority who are liable to pay the Class D rate of PRSI contribution will be required in respect of their superannuation to contribute to the local authority at the rate of 5% of their pensionable remuneration.

All persons who become pensionable employees of a local authority will be required in respect of the Local Government (Spouses and Childrens Contributory Pension) Scheme to contribute to the local authority at the rate of 1.5% of their pensionable remuneration in accordance with the terms of the scheme.

10. Retirement:

Public Service Pensions (Single Scheme and Other Provisions) Act 2012: The compulsory retirement age for new entrants as defined by the Public Service Pensions (Single Scheme and Other Provisions) Act 2012 is 70 years. Minimum pension age of 66 years, rising to 67 years and 68 years in line with State Pension age changes, is applicable.

Public Service Superannuation (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 2004:

There is no mandatory retirement age for ‘New Entrants’ from 1st April, 2004 to the public service as defined in the Public Service Superannuation (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2004. 65 years is the minimum age at which a person may be paid. As a new entrant to the public service, under the terms of this legislation, new entrants will not be required to retire on grounds of age.

Anyone who is not a ‘New Entrant’ to the public service, defined in the Public Service Superannuation (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2004 is subject to compulsory retirement age of 65 years.

11. Travel:

Holders of the post shall hold a full driving licence for class B vehicles and shall drive a motor car in the course of their duties and for this purpose, provide and maintain a car to the satisfaction of the local authority. Travelling expenses and subsistence expenses necessarily incurred in the course of official duties will be refunded in accordance with appropriate rates in line with the relevant Department circulars and Local Authority Travel and Subsistence Policy.

Offaly County Council, as employer, must be indemnified on your insurance policy. If during your employment, your licence is revoked, even temporarily, or if you receive endorsements on your licence, which may affect your duties, you are obliged to notify the Council immediately.

12. Recruitment & Selection Processes:

Shortlisting:

Normally the number of applications received for a position exceeds that required to fill existing and future vacancies to the position.  While a candidate may meet the eligibility requirements of the competition, if the numbers applying for the position are such that it would not be practical to interview everyone, Offaly County Council may decide that a number only will be invited to same.  In this respect, Offaly County Council provide for the employment of a short listing process to select a group for interview who, based on an examination of the application forms, appear to be the most suitable for the position based on the specific competencies identified in the job description.  An expert board will examine the application forms against a pre-determined criteria based on the requirements of the position.  This is not to suggest that other candidates are necessarily unsuitable or incapable of undertaking the job, rather that there are some candidates, who based on their application, appear to be better qualified and/or have more relevant experience.  It is therefore in your own interest to provide a detailed and accurate account of your relevant qualifications/ experience on the application form.   On occasions a short listing interview may take place.

Competitive Interview:

Selection will be by means of a competition based on an interview conducted by or on behalf of the local authority.  The number of persons to be invited shall be determined by the Local Authority having regard to the likely number of vacancies to be filled.  Candidates will be required to pay any expenses incurred by them in attending the interview.

A panel may be formed on the basis of such interview.  Candidates whose names are on a panel and who satisfy the local authority that they possess the qualifications declared for the post and that they are otherwise suitable for appointment may within the life of the panel be appointed as appropriate vacancies arise.

Right to Review:

Offaly County Council’s Recruitment & Selection Policy document is available from the Human Resources Department on the HR page of iPortal or on our website at www.offaly.ie/careers . This document includes details of the review procedure available to applicants for each stage of the recruitment process.