Public Works Director / Chief Engineer

Job Responsibilities:

• Direct and oversee the day-to-day operations and activities of the Public Works Department, ensuring the efficient functioning and maintenance of utility systems, facilities, roads, and public infrastructure.
• Develop and implement comprehensive policies, procedures, and schedules for infrastructure operation, maintenance, and repair to meet customer needs and ensure compliance with performance standards.
• Manage all aspects of engineering and maintenance operations, including environmental programs, systems upgrades, and lifecycle management.
• Ensure proper allocation of resources, including labor, materials, and equipment, to meet contract performance requirements and operational priorities.
• Monitor and manage budgets for public works projects and activities to ensure compliance with financial objectives.
• Coordinate engineering designs, technical solutions, and construction efforts for projects related to the improvement, repair, or expansion of infrastructure elements.
• Ensure adherence to health, safety, and environmental policies, including compliance with local laws, U.S. government regulations, and contractual obligations.
• Supervise and mentor Public Works Department staff to promote professional growth, ensuring high performance and team collaboration.
• Prepare and deliver detailed operational and project status reports to program leadership, government representatives, and the client.
• Act as the primary point of contact with the client and government representatives regarding technical and operational aspects of public works projects and initiatives.
• Facilitate emergency response and manage contingency plans for operational failures or crisis situations.
• Stay informed of new technologies, regulations, and industry standards to enhance and modernize public works operations.

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field (equivalent experience may be considered in lieu of education).
• 8-10 years of progressively responsible experience in public works operations, infrastructure management, facilities maintenance, or a related field.
• Demonstrated leadership experience managing large teams of technicians, engineers, and other personnel, ideally in public works or a government contracting environment.
• Comprehensive knowledge of public works systems, including utilities, roads, buildings, environmental systems, and general infrastructure.
• Strong project management skills, including managing schedules, budgets, and resources for large-scale maintenance and construction projects.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with fluency in English (written and verbal).
• Proficiency with engineering software, workflow management systems, and Microsoft Office Suite applications.
• Must be in possession of a valid passport and be able to travel internationally.
• Passport should be valid for a minimum of one (1) year or more at the time of hiring.
• Ability to successfully pass contract medical requirements and maintain requirements for the duration of deployment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Civil or Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• Registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) or equivalent certification.
• Prior experience in an austere OCONUS (Outside the Continental United States) environment with a multi-national workforce is preferred.
• Demonstrated experience operating within U.S. government or military public works environments.
• Familiarity with NAVFAC (Naval Facilities Engineering Command) standards and procedures.
• Certifications in project or construction management (e.g., PMP or CCM).
• Familiarity with energy conservation programs or environmental compliance initiatives.
• Ability to manage complex technical systems with minimal supervision in a challenging, remote operational environment.