Going After A Job That Doesn't Exist

[redbridge]

I work for a small private firm in a small town. I am worried about the work load and future at this company. The town I live in has mentioned in the past that they would eventually need to hire a city engineer. Should I go to the Mayor and let her know that I am interested if a position ever comes up? Should I market myself by telling her how much money could be saved in engineering design projects and proper planning of their infrastructure? Should I just sit back and wait to see if anything comes up?

 

[sms]

You'll never get it if you don't ask for it. Heck yes, go talk to the mayor....

-The future's so bright I gotta wear shades!
Please see FAQ731-376 for tips on how to make the best use of the Eng-Tips Forums.

 

[atlas06]

Before you do that in a small town, make sure your boss did not contribute to the mayor's political campaign. chances are, your boss will know it the next day.

 

[JAE]

Many small towns do hire "city engineers" but these aren't always employees of the city. Many hire their "city engineer" as a firm.

Perhaps this is an angle you could explore in addition to leaving the firm and working directly for the city.

 

[swivel63]

go for it.

 

[josephv]

Yes, you may want to meet with the Mayor and "listen" to their problems and needs and see what you can offer.

 

[IRstuff]

The only caveat is that such a job will require a substantial amount of political skills and understanding compared to a normal engineering job, particularly in a smaller environment.

TTFN

FAQ731-376

 

[MikeHalloran]

Any conversation with The Mayor becomes public record.
Your boss _will_ find out.

Maybe if you run into the person who happens to be mayor at the coffee shop...




Mike Halloran
Pembroke Pines, FL, USA

 

[macmet]

Could you maybe offer to take on some work on the side? Start with small projects, work up a reputation?

Is the town you live in the town you work in?

 

[JStephen]

So do they have the money available and in their budget?

 

[kontiki99]

I would investigate the towns process for approving public funds to pay the salary for city jobs.

There is a budget somewhere. Thereis probably a town council that gets involved too.

 

[TheTick]

If your futility muscle needs a little exercise, here's your chance.

 

[MintJulep]

As JAE notes, for many small towns the "city engineer" is an engineering firm on retainer, or guaranteed any city work at a fixed rate, not an actual employee of the city.

The downside is that you (or the firm) would be unable to bid on any jobs in the city, as that would be a conflict when the plans come under review by the "city engineer".

 

[redbridge]

macmet, The company I work for currently does some work with the city so I wouldn't want to try to get any side work. Yes, I live in the same town that I work in.

JStephen, I don't know if they have the money to pay for an engineer on staff.

The city has talked about hiring an engineer in the past. There is a new Mayor and I am going to talk to her to see if they were still considering it.

Thanks for all your advice. I appreciate you all taking time to help me out.