
Merced Irrigation District
Engineering Technician
Engineering technician – Water Resources – Position Overview
The Engineering Technician performs technical engineering support for the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of irrigation and drainage systems. Work includes surveying, drafting, data analysis, records management, construction inspection, and preparation of agreements. Assignments involve both office and field duties.
Key Responsibilities
o Prepare construction, crossing, joint-use, and related agreements.
o Assist in the design and sizing of pipelines, canals, and related facilities; perform flow estimation and equipment selection.
o Plan and conduct topographic and mapping surveys using GPS, total stations, theodolites, and other survey equipment.
o Create, edit, and maintain engineering data in CAD, GIS, and District databases.
o Perform data analysis and generate reports, maps, and charts from survey, CAD, and GIS records.
o Research and interpret deeds, easements, rights-of-way, and related legal documents.
o Draft, file, and reproduce engineering records, drawings, and agreements.
o Measure water flows, velocities, and levels in the field.
o Inspect construction projects for compliance with plans and standards.
o Prepare maps of irrigation facilities and update as-built and deed information.
o Record deeds with the County Clerk and maintain organized project files.
o Calculate grades, slopes, cuts, fills, areas, and volumes; perform staking and grade setting.
o Estimate quantities of construction materials and earthwork.
o Conduct dam monitoring surveys and prepare tabular and graphical results.
o Draft topographic surveys, construction drawings, profiles, maps, and graphics.
o Review consultant design drawings and verify field conditions of District facilities.
o Evaluate parcels for stormwater discharge impacts.
o Maintain and calibrate surveying and GPS equipment.
o Perform other related duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Education
· High school diploma required.
· AA degree in engineering technology, drafting, or related field preferred. College-level coursework in engineering, surveying, or drafting is desirable.
Experience
· One (1) to three (3) years of related technical experience.
Skills and Abilities
· Prepare and interpret maps, drawings, and site plans.
· Calculate distances, areas, volumes, and other survey data.
· Review and draft agreements and engineering documents.
· Communicate clearly in writing and verbally.
· Organize, prioritize, and complete assignments with accuracy and timeliness.
Knowledge of
· Surveying methods, CAD, GIS, and GPS applications.
· Construction agreements and right-of-way documentation.
· Public Lands Legal Description System (Section, Township, Range).
· Irrigation facility construction materials, methods, and tools.
· Algebra and trigonometry for engineering calculations.
· Microsoft Office Suite and AutoCAD. ArcGIS experience is desirable.
Special Requirements
· Complete two-hour Sexual Harassment training every two years per California AB 1825.
· Valid California Class C Driver’s License and maintain insurability under District’s vehicle insurance.
· Abide by all District policies, guidelines, and rules.
Work Environment
This position is a fully on-site role based at the District’s primary office location. Remote work or hybrid arrangements are not permitted. Regular attendance at the designated worksite is required as part of the essential functions of this position.
Physical Demands:
o Communicate effectively in person, by phone, and in writing.
o Operate computers, copiers, scanners, and other office equipment.
o Occasionally lift and carry up to 25 pounds.
o Ability to walk over uneven terrain and climb stairs.
o Sit for extended periods and operate a computer for up to 8 hours/day.
o Adequate vision and hearing for performing essential job functions.
Environmental Factors:
o Primarily office-based with occasional outdoor work (25% or less exposure to sun).
o Possible exposure to sun and uneven terrain during fieldwork.
o May require irregular or extended hours, including overtime.
Mental Demands:
o Exercise independent judgment.
o Remain self-directed, organized, and objective.
o Plan and manage daily/weekly work activities.
o Interpret and apply state, federal, and agency regulations.
o Prepare accurate and timely documentation.
o Adapt to changing priorities and interruptions.
Supervision
· Receives general supervision from a Manager of Engineering, Water Resources
Applications/Resumes will only be accepted via the Merced Irrigation District’s online application system.
New users must set up an account at https://Merced.accessgovernment.net/ApplicantTracking