Engineering Department Director/ City Engineer

Richard A. Hopkins was appointed Director of Engineering / City Engineer in June of 2008.  Mr. Hopkins first joined the City of Chula Vista in 2006 as the Assistant Director of Public Works after 22 years with the State of California, Department of Transportation, Caltrans.  Mr. Hopkins held a number of varied engineering positions with Caltrans, District 11, encompassing San Diego and Imperial Counties, including Deputy District Director over the Design and Construction Divisions.  These divisions were responsible for designing and constructing over $1 billion of highway infrastructure during his tenure.  As a Caltrans executive, Mr. Hopkins was recognized for his leadership at both the local district and statewide levels towards "continuous improvement" with a focus on strong "customer service".

Mr. Hopkins is a Chi Epsilon graduate of San Diego State University College of Engineering where he received a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, with a minor in Geology.  He holds a California license as a Civil Engineer since 1986.  Mr. Hopkins is a PADI certified Scuba Diver since 1975.  Mr. Hopkins worked in a number of odd jobs while completing his engineering studies including:  construction laborer, cook, waiter, summer camp counselor, lumberjack, and lifeguard.  Mr. Hopkins resides in Chula Vista with his wife Janet and their children Christopher and Kayla.