Director of Engineering
City of Newark, Newark, NJ, United States
The Director of Engineering serves as the City of Newark’s chief engineering executive, responsible for the planning, design, oversight, and delivery of municipal engineering programs and capital infrastructure projects. The Director provides leadership for professional and technical staff and ensures that City infrastructure projects are designed and constructed in compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and professional standards.
This position plays a critical role in advancing Newark’s capital improvement program, transportation and roadway projects, drainage and stormwater systems, public facilities, and coordination with state, county, and federal agencies.
Key Duties & Responsibilities
Executive & Strategic Leadership
- Plan, organize, and direct all activities of the Department of Engineering.
- Develop long-range infrastructure and capital improvement strategies consistent with City priorities.
- Serve as a senior technical advisor to the Mayor, City Council, Business Administrator, and other departments on engineering and infrastructure matters.
- Oversee the planning, design, permitting, and construction of municipal capital projects, including:
- Streets and roadways
- Bridges and transportation infrastructure
- Stormwater and drainage systems
- Public buildings and facilities
- Site development and public right-of-way improvements
- Review and approve engineering plans, specifications, cost estimates, and construction schedules.
- Ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and in accordance with professional engineering standards.
Regulatory & Technical Compliance
- Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, including NJDOT, NJDEP, FHWA, and other applicable agencies.
- Oversee stormwater management, environmental permitting, and infrastructure resilience requirements.
- Serve as the City Engineer where designated by ordinance or appointment.
Budget, Contracts & Grants
- Prepare and manage departmental and project budgets.
- Oversee procurement, consultant contracts, and construction contracts.
- Coordinate and administer engineering-related grants and funding programs, including state and federal infrastructure funding.
- Supervise, evaluate, and develop professional engineering, technical, and administrative staff.
- Support training, professional development, and succession planning within the department.
- Foster a culture of accountability, safety, and technical excellence.
Intergovernmental & Public Coordination
- Coordinate engineering activities with Public Works, Planning, Economic & Housing Development, Water & Sewer, and other departments.
- Represent the City in meetings with state, county, regional, and federal agencies.
- Present technical information at City Council meetings, public hearings, and community forums.
Emergency Response & Infrastructure Resilience
- Provide engineering support during emergencies involving infrastructure failure, flooding, or public safety concerns.
- Support emergency management planning and post-event infrastructure assessments.
Minimum Qualifications
Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or a closely related engineering field required
- Minimum 8–10 years of progressively responsible engineering experience, including management or supervisory responsibilities
- Significant experience with municipal infrastructure projects and capital programs
Licenses & Certifications
- Professional Engineer (PE) license in the State of New Jersey (or ability to obtain reciprocity within required timeframe)
- Valid driver’s license
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Extensive knowledge of municipal engineering principles, capital project delivery, and construction management
- Strong leadership, analytical, and project management skills
- Ability to communicate complex technical concepts to non-technical audiences
- Experience working in a public-sector or large urban environment preferred