Managing Engineer

City of Houston•Houston, TX

7d•Onsite

About The Position

Houston Public Works is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Managing Engineer to lead multidisciplinary teams responsible for geotechnical engineering, environmental compliance, construction materials testing (CMT), and utility coordination in support of citywide capital improvement and infrastructure programs. The role provides technical direction, quality assurance oversight, and coordination across Public Works service lines and external partners to support safe, reliable, and sustainable infrastructure. The Managing Engineer provides strategic leadership for geotechnical, environmental, and materials-testing programs; serves as a technical authority on complex projects; and mentors professional staff. The position oversees construction quality-control operations and engineering testing service contracts, reviews critical engineering and environmental documentation, and ensures compliance with applicable standards, regulations, and safety requirements. It also coordinates utility-conflict resolution, addresses complex engineering issues, responds to technical inquiries, and supports cross-departmental collaboration and other departmental objectives. The position is based at 611 Walker Street, 23rd Floor. Workdays and hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., subject to change. The role is physically comfortable, with discretion over walking and standing, though it may involve walking on rough surfaces for site inspections and investigations. Occasional minor discomforts may arise from temperature or air conditions, office chemicals, or extensive video display terminal use. This is a Houston Public Works Emergency Management position at the Tier II level and is designated as a safety-impact position, subject to random drug testing. New hires and rehires must pass a pre-employment drug test and are subject to a physical examination and verification of provided information.

Requirements

Graduation from an engineering curriculum approved by the State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers, with satisfactory standing; or graduation from an engineering or related science curriculum at a recognized institution of higher education and passage of the Board-prescribed eight-hour Fundamentals of Engineering examination.
Eight years of active engineering practice after graduation from an approved engineering curriculum, including four years as a licensed Professional Engineer.
Registration as a Professional Engineer in the State of Texas.
An out-of-state engineer must be hired in a position directly under the supervision of a Texas-licensed Professional Engineer and obtain a Texas Professional Engineer license within six months of hire to remain employed.
A specific branch of engineering may be required.
A valid Texas driver’s license and compliance with the City of Houston’s driving policy may be required.

Nice To Haves

A Master’s degree in Engineering may substitute for up to two years of the experience requirement.
Experience in municipal or public works engineering management.
Familiarity with TCEQ, TXDOT, and EPA regulations.
Demonstrated expertise in geotechnical investigation methods, environmental compliance, and construction materials testing using ASTM/AASHTO standards.
Eligible veteran applicants may receive preference if they have the qualifications for competent performance, are among the most qualified candidates, and meet the other factors in Executive Order 1-6.

Responsibilities

Provide strategic leadership and technical direction for geotechnical, environmental, and materials-testing programs, coordinating with Public Works service lines, consultants, and regulatory agencies.
Serve as the primary technical authority and subject-matter expert for complex geotechnical and environmental engineering projects, providing guidance on design, investigation methods, and regulatory compliance.
Guide and mentor professional staff and promote technical excellence, accountability, and career growth in geotechnical, environmental, and CMT disciplines.
Oversee construction quality-control operations, including engineering testing service contracts, field and laboratory performance verification, and review of contractor and consultant invoices for compliance and accuracy.
Ensure compliance with industry standards, safety regulations, and applicable local, state, and federal environmental and engineering codes.
Review and approve Geotechnical Reports, Phase I and II Environmental Site Assessments, and National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) reports for technical accuracy and completeness.
Review specialized geological studies, including Phase I, II, and III Fault Assessments, and evaluate lead and asbestos investigation proposals and reports for regulatory conformance.
Coordinate with public and private utilities to mitigate conflicts during design and construction, document conflicts, and support timely resolution.
Resolve high-risk or complex engineering issues arising during project planning, design, or construction.
Respond to technical inquiries, complaints, and requests for information from internal stakeholders, consultants, and the public on geotechnical, environmental, and CMT matters.
Foster cross-departmental collaboration to advance Houston Public Works’ infrastructure mission.
Perform other related duties as assigned to support departmental objectives and project delivery goals.