Chief Project Engineer

New Hanover County•New Hanover County, NC

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

New Hanover County is seeking a Chief Project Engineer (Development Review) to join their Engineering Department. This senior-level position provides technical expertise, project management, regulatory oversight, and leadership. The role focuses on reviewing private development for compliance with regulations and design standards, supporting land development, stormwater, sedimentation and erosion control, and coastal infrastructure. The position involves reviewing and approving construction plans, providing technical guidance on drainage and stormwater management, coordinating with stakeholders, and interpreting land development ordinances. It also includes supervising staff, managing engineering projects, providing technical support to various entities, representing the County on committees, responding to inquiries, performing field inspections, mentoring staff, assisting with budgets, and providing support during emergencies.

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree in a related Engineering field
Five (5) years of progressively responsible engineering experience
Two (2) years supervisory and project management experience in storm water, erosion control, public utilities, and site development.
Valid Driver's License (if coming from out of state, NC license must be obtained within 30 days of employment)
Professional Engineer (PE) License

Nice To Haves

Strong work ethic
Ability to successfully manage performance of subordinate employees
Ability to prioritize schedules based on changing needs
Willingness to contribute where needed
Desire to serve the citizens of our county

Responsibilities

Reviewing and approving private development construction plans and engineering documents for compliance with County ordinances, regulations, and technical standards.
Providing engineering review and technical guidance related to drainage, stormwater management, and erosion and sedimentation control.
Coordinating with developers, engineers, contractors, property owners, and regulatory agencies to resolve development-related engineering issues.
Providing engineering support related to sedimentation and erosion control, shore protection, and coastal infrastructure as needed.
Interpreting and applying land development ordinances, engineering standards, and regulatory requirements to support consistent and effective development review.
Providing professional engineering expertise and leadership for County engineering programs, projects, and initiatives.
Supervising assigned staff by prioritizing and assigning work, conducting performance evaluations, ensuring appropriate training and development, and making hiring, termination, and disciplinary recommendations.
Managing engineering projects from planning and design through permitting, bidding, construction, and completion, including defining project requirements, preparing bids, negotiating contracts, and developing budgets and schedules.
Providing engineering services and technical support to County departments, consultants, contractors, regulatory agencies, and the public.
Representing New Hanover County Engineering on the Technical Review Committee (TRC) and other committees as assigned.
Responding to inquiries and concerns related to engineering, drainage, stormwater, development, and infrastructure matters.
Performing field inspections and site visits to evaluate existing conditions, construction activities, drainage functionality, infrastructure condition, and compliance.
Providing technical guidance and mentorship to engineers, inspectors, and other staff; coordinates and manages consultants and contractors.
Assisting with departmental and program budgets, grant applications, and other funding opportunities related to County engineering programs and infrastructure.
Providing engineering support during emergency and disaster situations.