Principal Civil Engineer

Milwaukee County•Milwaukee, WI

7d•$48 - $71

About The Position

The Principal Civil Engineer leads and manages the Civil Engineering & Site Development Unit within Milwaukee County’s Architecture, Engineering & Environmental Services (AE&ES) Division. This position provides strategic oversight and technical leadership for civil engineering, surveying, and site development projects across Milwaukee County’s public infrastructure. The role ensures high-quality project execution, regulatory compliance, sustainability integration, and collaboration with internal departments and external agencies.

Requirements

Must be a current resident of Wisconsin.
Valid WI Driver’s License during application and maintained throughout employment.
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering
At least Five (5) years of experience in Project management and Civil Engineering related work.
At least One (1) year or more supervisory experience in leading project team, or managing technical / professional staff
Intermediate knowledge of all related computer and software applications, such as word processing and spreadsheets.
Intermediate knowledge of Project Management Tools and Software
Basic knowledge of AutoCAD, Civil3D
Extensive knowledge of civil engineering theories, principles, and best practices, with an emphasis on site development, utility engineering, and construction engineering.
Proven ability to oversee and ensure quality assurance in the preparation of construction bid documents for a variety of public works projects.
Strong analytical skills to develop comprehensive engineering reports for complex public works projects.
Effective leadership and supervisory skills to guide and mentor staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performing team environment.
Ability to build and maintain productive relationships with internal staff, county departments, and external agencies to facilitate project success.
Applicants must successfully undergo a criminal history background check to establish security clearance for Milwaukee County facilities and maintain this clearance throughout employment.
Appointee must establish Wisconsin State residency within six (6) months of starting date.

Nice To Haves

Professional Engineer License in the State of Wisconsin preferred.
Relevant advance degree preferred and beneficial.

Responsibilities

Provide leadership, strategic direction, and oversight for the Civil Engineering & Site Development Unit.
Foster a collaborative, team-oriented work environment that promotes innovation, accountability, and superior customer service.
Serve as the primary representative for civil engineering services to County leadership, departments, and external stakeholders.
Direct the planning, design, bidding, and construction administration for capital and maintenance projects.
Ensure adherence to budget, schedule, quality standards, and sustainability objectives.
Oversee stormwater management, regulatory compliance, and permitting for site development projects.
Maintain strong relationships with County departments, community organizations, and external stakeholders.
Serve as a technical advisor on site development, infrastructure planning, and public works initiatives.
Provide guidance on engineering design standards, specifications, and best practices.
Ensure quality control across all project phases, from concept through construction closeout.
Promote the integration of sustainable infrastructure solutions in site development projects.
Manage and oversee surveying functions, including the development of Certified Survey Maps (CSM), plats, utility maps, and legal descriptions.
Ensure the accuracy and compliance of all property documentation and land development activities.
Coordinate with local, state, and federal agencies on permits, funding opportunities, and regulatory reviews.
Represent Milwaukee County in public meetings, technical reviews, and grant administration processes.
Ensure projects align with all applicable codes, ordinances, and environmental requirements.
Lead the hiring, training, and performance management of engineering and surveying staff.
Promote professional development and technical training.
Assist County departments with annual and five-year capital improvement planning.
Provide cost estimates, technical recommendations, and budget justifications for site development and infrastructure projects.