Hiring Range: $88,961.60 -$117,258.96/Year. It is anticipated that the hiring rate offered will be +/- the midpoint range depending on qualifications.
The Port of Corpus Christi Authority (PCCA) is currently seeking a highly motivated Associate Project Engineer to join the Channel Infrastructure team! This is an exciting opportunity for an early-career engineering professional to contribute to transformative waterway infrastructure projects at the nation’s third-largest port.
The Channel Infrastructure team manages the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of PCCA’s navigable waterways, dock slips, dredge material placement areas (DMPAs), and beneficial use sites. Our work ensures safe, efficient navigation while supporting sustainable development and environmental stewardship.
Reporting directly to the Manager of Channel Infrastructure, the Associate Project Engineer will assist in the design, permitting, and construction administration of both capital improvement and maintenance projects. This position offers exposure to complex engineering challenges, cross-functional collaboration, and valuable engagement with federal and industry partners.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Assists in the planning, design, and construction of channel and waterway infrastructure projects
Supports oversight of federally sponsored dredging contracts
Manages indirectly the PCCA’s dredge material placement areas and third-party dredge license processes
Tracks dredging schedules, verifies quantities, and coordinates billing with the Accounting Department
Contributes to the design and preparation of plans, specifications, estimates, and bid documents
Assists with the administration and execution of PCCA’s Dredging Services Program, supporting internal maintenance dredging efforts and third-party coordination
Performs annual facility inspections and assist with budget planning
Supports the PCCA sounding program and coordinate hydrographic survey activities
Collaborates with external consultants on infrastructure design and construction
Assists in executing department goals tied to the PCCA Strategic Plan
Prepares presentations, technical reports, and visual exhibits for Commission and stakeholder meetings
Maintains accurate records and supports website updates related to department projects
Coordinates with other PCCA staff and departments, as required
Attends meetings and work in secure areas requiring Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) credentials
Follows PCCA safety, security, and environmental protocols on all assigned projects
Adheres to PCCA policy and maintain good employee relations; works with other PCCA staff to achieve work goals and initiatives
Drives PCCA vehicles to complete assigned tasks courteously and safely and follow applicable procedures for vehicle use
Works required hours to fulfill position objectives
Performs related duties as assigned
Tier 2 employee designation
CPR certified or ability to become CPR certified within the first year of employment
CANDIDATE PROFILE
The ideal candidate for this position is a motivated and detail-oriented early-career professional with a strong academic foundation and an interest in infrastructure, waterway development, or marine engineering. This individual should possess a collaborative mindset, strong communication skills, and a willingness to learn and grow in a dynamic team environment. Requirements for the position include:
EDUCATION & CREDENTIALS
Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, coastal/marine engineering, or a related field from an ABET-accredited college or university
Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification preferred, or ability to obtain within 12 months preferred
Demonstrated interest in pursuing Professional Engineer licensure preferred
Ability to obtain and maintain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) during course of employment
Valid driver's license
EXPERIENCE & JOB KNOWLEDGE
2-5 years of relevant project experience preferred; however, entry-level engineers may also be considered
Effective business communication skills, both written and verbal
TECHNICAL SKILLS
Skilled in the practical application of engineering concepts and principles
Experience or exposure to design projects related to ports, waterfront infrastructure, or navigational waterways preferred
Proficiency with Microsoft Office; experience with AutoCAD, GIS, or other design tools preferred
Strong organizational, analytical, and written/verbal communication skills
Ability to write and create reports/presentations and give formal presentations
PROFESSIONAL SKILLS
Ability to define issues, perform research, evaluate alternatives, and develop sound, independent conclusions and recommendations
Demonstrated ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment with competing deadlines, multiple projects, and shifting priorities
Strong organizational and planning skills; ability to set priorities, take initiative, and exercise sound independent judgment
Ability to understand, interpret, explain, and apply PCCA policies as well as relevant state and federal regulations related to port operations and infrastructure
ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL JOB FUNCTIONS
Ability to perform essential job functions, including but not limited to frequent standing, walking, sitting, speaking or hearing, typing and occasional reaching, stooping, kneeling, lifting and/or moving up to 20 pounds with or without reasonable accommodation
Ability to work in a general office environment, with some exposure to the elements when visiting worksites
Ability to operate light-weight highway vehicles and standard office equipment and to work the requisite hours to fulfill position objectives, including evenings and/or weekends, as needed
APPLICATION PROCESS
Interested and qualified candidates must apply online at www.portofcc.com on or before Monday, April 21st, 11:59 PM CST.
If you are selected for a position with PCCA, your employment will be contingent upon submission to and successful completion of a drug test and alcohol screening as well as a verification of information and qualifications provided during the selection process.
As part of our dedication to the diversity of our workforce, PCCA is committed to Equal Employment Opportunity. Applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard for race, color, gender, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, military status, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any other protected group status.
Benefits:
PCCA employees are offered a comprehensive benefits package:
Competitive salary paid bi-weekly
Texas County & District Retirement System (TCDRS)
457(b) Deferred Compensation Plan and Roth
Low-cost, high quality benefit package including health, dental & vision insurance
Health Savings and Flexible Spending Accounts
Voluntary life and AD&D, disability, supplemental, and pet insurance
Virtual care telemedicine 24/7 with $0 copay (medical, mental health, dermatology, nutrition, neck & back care)
Tuition reimbursement
529 Education Savings Plan
Passes to local venues, such as the Texas State Aquarium and the USS Lexington Museum
Paid leave (vacation, sick, bereavement)
Thirteen paid holidays
Employee assistance program, volunteer time off, and wellbeing benefits
Salary commensurate with experience
Questions:01Are you 18 years or older?
Yes
No
02The successful candidate will hold a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, coastal/marine engineering, from an ABET accredited college or university. Do you meet this requirement?
Yes
No
03If you answered "yes" to the previous question, please specify the degree that you received.
04The successful candidate will currently hold an Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification or have the ability to obtain one within 12 months (preferred) and the desire to pursue Professional Engineering registration. Do you meet this requirement?
Yes
No
05This position prefers 2 - 5 years of relevant project experience in planning, engineering design, or construction. Do you meet this preferred experience?
Yes
No
06The successful candidate must be skilled in the application of engineering concepts and principles through coursework, internships, or early professional experience. Do you meet this requirement?
Yes
No
07Experience or exposure to design projects related to ports, waterfront infrastructure, or navigational waterways preferred. Do you have this experience or exposure?
Yes
No
08This position requires proficiency in MS Office, experience with AutoCAD, GIS, or other design tools preferred. Do you have this experience or exposure?
Yes
No
09The successful candidate must possess strong organizational, analytical, and written/verbal communication skills. Do you meet this requirement?
Yes
No
10This position requires the candidate to have the ability to write and create reports and deliver formal presentations effectively. Do you meet this requirement?
Yes
No
11A successful candidate must have the ability to define issues, perform research, evaluate alternatives and develop sound, independent conclusions and recommendations in a timely manner. Do you meet this requirement?
Yes
No
12The successful candidate must demonstrate the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment with competing deadlines, multiple projects, and shifting priorities. Do you have the ability to meet this requirement?
Yes
No
13The successful candidate must have proven organizational and planning skills; ability to set priorities, take initiative, and exercise sound independent judgement. Do you meet this requirement?
Yes
No
14The successful candidate must have the ability to understand, interpret and apply PCCA policies, SEAPORT values, and relevant state/federal laws. Do you meet this requirement?
Yes
No
15This position requires the ability to perform essential job functions, including but not limited to frequent standing, walking, sitting, speaking or hearing, typing and occasional reaching, stooping, kneeling, lifting, and/or moving up to 20 pounds with or without reasonable accommodation. Do you meet this requirement?
Yes
No
16This position requires the ability to work in a general office environment, with some exposure to adverse weather conditions. Do you meet this requirement?
Yes
No
17This position requires the ability to operate light-weight highway vehicles and standard office equipment and to work the requisite hours to fulfill position objectives, including evenings and/or weekends, as needed. Do you meet this requirement?