Senior Public Works Engineer
Senior Public Works Engineer - Houston, TX
Position Overview
We are seeking a Senior Public Works Engineer to lead and support municipal transportation and infrastructure projects across the Greater Houston region. This role is ideal for an experienced engineer who excels in both technical delivery and business development.
Approximately 50% of the position focuses on hands‑on engineering and project management for transportation, roadway, traffic, and drainage projects. The remaining 50% centers on building and expanding relationships with local public works agencies, driving strategic growth, and supporting proposal efforts.
Key Responsibilities
Technical (50%)
- Lead planning, design, and delivery of municipal transportation, roadway, traffic, and drainage projects.
- Perform and oversee engineering analyses, calculations, modeling, and design tasks in accordance with Houston‑area standards (City of Houston, Harris County, TxDOT, etc.).
- Manage project schedules, budgets, scopes, and QA/QC processes.
- Develop construction documents including plans, specifications, and estimates (PS&E).
- Provide technical guidance, mentoring, and oversight to junior engineers and designers.
- Coordinate with internal multidiscipline teams to ensure successful project execution.
- Support field reviews, utility coordination, and stakeholder communication throughout the project lifecycle.
Business Development (50%)
- Build, maintain, and expand relationships with key municipal public works clients in the Greater Houston area, including cities, counties, drainage districts, and related agencies.
- Identify upcoming opportunities, strategic pursuits, and client needs.
- Lead or support proposal development, scope writing, fee estimates, and interview presentations.
- Represent the firm in local industry organizations, networking events, and client meetings.
- Collaborate with leadership to develop annual BD plans, revenue goals, and growth strategies.
- Serve as a client manager on targeted accounts and support long-term relationship management.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or related field.
- Professional Engineer (PE) - Texas required (or ability to obtain via reciprocity quickly).
- 8-15+ years of experience in municipal public works engineering.
- Demonstrated expertise in transportation, roadway, traffic, or drainage design for municipal clients.
- Proven ability to manage complex projects from concept through construction.
- Strong communication and presentation skills, with experience engaging municipal clients.
- Track record of participating in or leading business development efforts.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with City of Houston, Harris County, HCFCD, Fort Bend County, or surrounding Houston‑area municipal clients.
- Proficiency with software such as Civil 3D, HCS, Synchro, SWMM, HEC‑HMS/HEC‑RAS, etc.
- Existing client relationships and a history of winning work in the Houston public works market.
- Prior involvement in industry associations (APWA, TSPE, ASCE, TAMU/ITE, etc.).
Key Competencies
- Technical depth in public infrastructure design
- Business development and client relationship leadership
- Project management excellence
- Strong interpersonal and mentoring abilities
- Strategic and entrepreneurial mindset
FAQs
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