Title
Human Resources Department recommending the Board:
1) Approve the consolidation of Assistant in Civil Engineering and Associate Civil Engineer classifications into a new, flexibly staffed classification of Assistant/Associate Civil Engineer; and
2) Adopt and authorize the Chair to sign Resolution 195-2024 to approve the title change of the two classifications above into a new consolidated Assistant/Associate Civil Engineer classification, retaining the existing job class numbers, bargaining units and salary ranges.
FUNDING: N/A
Body
DISCUSSION / BACKGROUND
The Human Resources Department, in collaboration with the Transportation Department, is recommending that the classifications of Assistant Civil Engineer and Associate Civil Engineer be combined into a single, flexibly staffed classification titled Assistant/Associate Civil Engineer. This change allows for a structured career progression. Employees in the Assistant Civil Engineer classification will be eligible for permissive promotion to Associate Civil Engineer upon meeting all required criteria, including passing the California Professional Engineering exam. However, promotion is not automatic and is contingent upon additional factors, such as departmental approval, performance evaluations, and other qualifications outlined in the County’s personnel rules. A competitive recruitment process is not required for promotion under this structure.
Currently, the classifications of Assistant Civil Engineer and Associate Civil Engineer are independent, each with separate minimum qualifications and recruitment processes. However, given the overlapping duties and career progression between the two roles, a flexible staffing model is both practical and advantageous. This model allows employees to be promoted to the higher classification once they meet all pre-established requirements, as defined in the County's personnel rules regarding flexibly staffed classifications.
This consolidation also addresses recruitment challenges by streamlining the process, helping the County remain competitive in attracting and retaining qualified civil engineers.
Attached are the original classifications of Assistant Civil Engineer and Associate Civil Engineer and the newly proposed Assistant/Associate Civil Engineer classification, reflecting the combined duties and responsibilities.
ALTERNATIVES
The Board could choose to maintain the separate classifications and require a competitive recruitment process for promotion from Assistant to Associate Civil Engineer.
PRIOR BOARD ACTION
N/A
OTHER DEPARTMENT / AGENCY INVOLVEMENT
Department of Transportation, El Dorado County Employees’ Association, Local 1
CAO RECOMMENDATION
Approve as recommended.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
There is no financial impact associated with this item.
CLERK OF THE BOARD FOLLOW UP ACTIONS
Upon Board adoption and approval, please provide a copy of the executed Resolution to Heather Andersen in Human Resources.
STRATEGIC PLAN COMPONENT
Workforce Excellence
Priority: Enhance Employee Retention
Action Item: Attract and retain the best employees by providing competitive compensation, training, and advancement opportunities, and creating a positive and thriving culture
CONTACT
Joseph Carruesco, Director of Human Resources