DEPUTY PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR / CITY ENGINEER en City of Huntington Beach, CA
City of Huntington Beach, CA · Huntington Beach, Estados Unidos De América · Onsite
- Senior
- Oficina en Huntington Beach
About the Department

An inspiring and hardworking leader who has mastered the art of helping others see what's possible, the ideal candidate will be of the highest integrity and considered a role model in the profession. This person will have the ability to approach day-to-day operations with an optimistic can-do attitude and a constant eye toward results and continuous improvement. Familiarity with technology and tools that support contemporary business practices and maximum efficiency, coupled with a track record that reflects data-driven decision making and the delivery of exceptional outcomes, will be expected. Proven success with modernizing systems and processes and other significant change efforts will also be considered favorably.
The individual selected will be a unifying mentor and team builder who prioritizes people and the needs of the team above personal ambitions. Known for being enthusiastic about people and their work, this person will also be an outstanding people manager capable of fostering an inclusive culture that is also characterized by high standards, accountability, and trust. The ideal candidate will be a highly engaged and motivating manager who is generous with recognition and feedback, and supportive of innovation and problem solving at the lowest level. This person will know how to foster healthy internal debates to arrive at the best outcomes as one cohesive team.
Driven by an obsession for the delivery of exceptional outcomes, the ideal candidate will convey a sophisticated understanding of external as well as internal customer needs and concerns. This individual will exhibit tremendous initiative and have a history that demonstrates the ability to address challenges with courage and confidence. Department leaders in Huntington Beach are expected to be resilient problem solvers and have an admirable ability to adapt while maintaining forward momentum.
Position Duties
PRIORITIES FOR THE NEW DEPUTY PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR/CITY ENGINEER:
- Manage the daily operations of the Engineering and Transportation divisions within the Public Works Department. These divisions consist of Construction Management, Design, Development, Storm Water Quality, and Traffic.
- Oversee delivery of the Capital Improvement Program as the new Deputy Public Works Director/City Engineer.
- Assist the department with hiring, training, and mentoring staff.
- Manage the department in the absence of the Director of Public Works.
- Represent the department before the City Council, boards and commissions, joint powers agencies, and local and regional groups, as necessary.
- Oversee the infusion of technology into infrastructure management, daily operations, and capital project delivery.
Minimum Qualifications
Any combination of education, training, and experience that would likely provide the knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform in the position is qualifying. A typical combination includes:
Competitive candidates will possess:
A minimum of seven (7) years of progressively responsible professional experience in municipal civil engineering programs, including at least two (2) years in a supervisory or management capacity over professional engineering staff—preferably within a California municipality or other public sector organization.
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in civil engineering. A master’s degree in a related field is desirable.
Current licensure as a Registered Professional Engineer in Civil Engineering issued by the California State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers.
Following the closing date, applications and supplemental documents will be reviewed and those candidates deemed best qualified will be invited to participate in a virtual oral board interview, tentatively scheduled for mid October 2025. After the initial interview, top candidates will be invited to an in-person interview with the department. The Public Works Director anticipates making an appointment shortly thereafter, following the completion of thorough background and reference checks. Please note that references will not be contacted until the end of the process and will be done so in close coordination with the affected candidate.