Civil engineers design and build public works facilities. At A&S, we focus on serving water districts, municipalities, and single-family residential developers. Our team designs the essential infrastructure needed for clean drinking water, wastewater treatment, and reducing flood risks in neighborhoods. Continue reading to learn more about the responsibilities of a civil engineer and why the work we do matters to your community and beyond.
Core Duties of Civil Engineers in Water Infrastructure
Throughout a District’s development, civil engineers ensure that facilities comply with city, county, state (TCEQ), Subsidence District (if needed), and federal (EPA) regulations. They handle permit applications and check that all environmental, safety, and construction standards are met. From advising before land is bought to upgrading existing structures, civil engineers are key consultants for water districts, municipalities, and residential developers. Here are some ways you might work with an A&S civil engineer:
1. Pre-Purchase Planning and Analysis of Land Development
Developers hire civil engineers before buying land to see if it is suitable for development. Once the land is found suitable and purchased, engineers conduct boundary surveys, calculate acreage, and gather topography data to design water and wastewater facilities. This process also determines the boundary of the District (Growing by Metes and Bounds). This foundational analysis ensures the design is practical and safe.
2. Preliminary Engineering Reports and Feasibility Reports
Engineers advise land planners, who work to create the best development plan. They provide details for the Preliminary Engineering Report (Design and Construction of Public Water Systems, 2024), including area descriptions, proposed land use, facility plans, early designs for water, sewer, and drainage lines, estimated costs, and an approximate tax rate. For existing Districts, engineers prepare feasibility reports to determine whether a project within or near the District can be successfully completed. (Texas Commission on Environmental Quality)
3. Design and Development
Once a market study and master plan are finished, the first phase of development is set. Then, engineers complete designs for paving, water supply, sewer, drainage, and wastewater treatment facilities. They also secure permits and water rights as required by Subsidence District and State laws. (Surface Water Rights and Availability)
After all requirements are met, the project is advertised for contractor bids. The engineering firm reviews all bids and then issues a Notice to Proceed, allowing contractors to begin work.
4. Construction Management and Oversight
Civil engineers oversee construction projects to ensure they are built in accordance with designs, schedules, and safety standards. They also work with the attorney to coordinate the preparation of a rate order that includes information on procedures, materials, and inspections required to connect homes and businesses to District facilities.
5. Bond Application Document Procurement
Financial advisors guide the district to proceed with bond applications at some point during the development period, once sufficient construction has been completed (Texas Special District Local Laws Code Section 9051.252 – Issuance of Bonds, 2017). The engineering firm is responsible for providing the following documents:
- Notice to Bidders
- Bid Tabulation
- Notice of Award
- Contract Agreement
- Notice to Proceed
- Pay Estimates
- Final Pay Estimate
- Change Orders
- Certificate of Completion
- Copies of permits
6. Maintenance and Upgrades
After a structure or system is built, civil engineers help ensure that facilities continue to work properly. They do this by consulting with a District on upgrading facilities to meet new standards, expanding to handle growth, and planning repairs throughout the life of the infrastructure.
Why Civil Engineering Matters
Civil engineers plan, design, manage construction, and maintain the infrastructure that supports daily life. They handle complex projects that affect almost every part of a community, using technical skills, regulations, and practical experience. Ultimately, the work A&S provides helps protect public health by providing clean water and waste system infrastructure.