Utilities Project and Construction Manager en St. Lucie County Board of County Commissioners, FL

About the Department

POSITION OVERVIEW: The Utilities Project and Construction Manager performs advanced independent oversight and management of professional engineering work related to civil and environmental utility projects. Reporting directly to the Utilities Division Director – Field Operations, this position is responsible for the full lifecycle administration of Utility Capital Projects and Improvements — from conceptual planning and regulatory compliance to construction management and final delivery. The role requires extensive knowledge of water and wastewater systems, strong project coordination skills, and the ability to operate effectively with minimal supervision in a dynamic environment.

Position Duties

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Project and Construction Management:

• Direct and manage all phases of assigned utility capital projects and improvements.
• Coordinate construction efforts, including scheduling, inspections, and ensuring contractor compliance with specifications.
• Conduct and lead pre-bid and pre-construction meetings; issue addendums as necessary.
• Monitor construction progress, identify and resolve issues, and ensure timely project delivery.
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.

Planning, Design, and Contract Oversight:

• Develop detailed project specifications, bid documents, and contracts.
• Review and critique engineering proposals, designs, and construction plans for water and wastewater systems.
• Coordinate permitting and regulatory requirements with appropriate agencies.
• Conduct plant site and infrastructure evaluations for short- and long-term capacity planning.
• Develop and maintain performance studies for mechanical equipment related to utilities.

Stakeholder Engagement and Communication:

• Serve as a liaison with consultants, contractors, regulatory agencies, and department personnel.
• Attend Board of County Commission meetings as required.
• Prepare and deliver presentations and reports on project status, compliance, and recommendations.
• Coordinate activities with Utility Contract Operators and maintenance teams.
• Develop and conduct training programs related to water, wastewater, and lift station operations.

Emergency and Miscellaneous Duties:

• Respond to emergencies that may require work outside of standard hours.
• Perform additional duties and manage other projects as assigned by the Utilities Director.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: This position requires regular physical activity in both office and field settings. Duties involve standing, walking, bending, squatting, climbing ladders, and navigating uneven, sloped, or loose terrain. Moderate physical effort is required, including the ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds occasionally and 25 pounds frequently. The role may involve operating equipment or performing manual tasks, and it requires sufficient mobility and physical stamina to perform work outdoors in varying environmental conditions. Good vision and hearing, with or without correction, and the ability to communicate effectively are essential.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS AND WORK HAZARDS: This position involves work in both indoor, climate-controlled environments and outdoor settings where employees may be exposed to varying weather conditions and extreme temperatures. Duties may include working in unconditioned spaces and at heights using ladders, scaffolding, or other elevated surfaces. The role includes potential exposure to noise, dust, chemicals, construction equipment, and other mechanical hazards. Employees may also work in areas with natural risks such as insects or animals. Flexibility in work hours is necessary, as the position may involve evenings, weekends, or on-call duties in response to emergencies.

SAFETY EQUIPMENT & PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE): Employees are required to adhere to all safety protocols and utilize appropriate safety equipment and personal protective equipment (PPE) provided to ensure a safe working environment. Specific requirements include:

• Mandatory PPE: Employees must wear designated PPE, which may include safety goggles, gloves, hard hats, hearing protection, and respiratory masks, depending on the tasks performed.
• Safety Training: All employees will receive training on the proper use and maintenance of safety equipment and PPE to minimize risks and ensure compliance with safety regulations.
• Inspection and Maintenance: Employees are responsible for regularly inspecting their PPE for wear and tear, and reporting any damaged equipment to their supervisor for replacement.
• Emergency Equipment: Familiarity with the location and use of emergency equipment, such as fire extinguishers, first aid kits, and eyewash stations, is required.

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION:  

This job description is not intended to be and should not be construed as an all-inclusive list of all the responsibilities, skills or working conditions associated with the position.  While it is intended to accurately reflect the position activities and requirements, Management reserves the right to modify, add or remove duties and assign other duties as necessary that are a logical assignment to the position.

EMERGENCY RESPONSE/RECOVERY ACTIVITIES: 

County employees are considered essential personnel in providing and continuing services to our community during and following a disaster, such as a hurricane, or in other emergency situations. As a requirement of County employment, County employees are subject to being required to remain at work during an event, respond to a recall immediately following an event and/or immediately reporting to work when an all clear is declared by the County Administrator.  During these types of events, County employees may temporarily be assigned to work and perform duties outside the normal scope of their position, location, and work schedule to fit the needs of the County and its citizens. 

ADA STATEMENT:

A qualified employee or applicant with a disability may be afforded a reasonable accommodation to perform the essential job functions of a position in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

EEO STATEMENT:

St. Lucie County BOCC is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic. We encourage all qualified candidates to apply.

Minimum Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONS:

Candidates should possess a solid foundational background that demonstrates their ability to engage with the responsibilities of the role effectively.

• High school diploma or equivalent (GED) required.   College degree from an accredited institution in business administration, contract management, engineering, project management, or related field is preferred.  Relevant experience, training or technical certifications may substitute for preferred college degree.
• Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in utility project supervision, construction, and management with at least three (3) years of supervisory or management experience.
• Professional Engineering license preferred.
• Extensive knowledge of capital project practices, utility systems construction, and permitting requirements.
• Strong ability to read, interpret, and critique construction and engineering documents.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and make field decisions.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, public speaking, and conflict resolution skills.
• Strong time management and organizational abilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and database management.
• Must possess a valid Florida driver's license with a good driving record.

Other Qualifications

Pay Grade: G209

Driving Position – Operating County vehicles and/or equipment is a primary function of this position.  

PRE-EMPLOYMENT SCREENING: This position requires a physical, drug testing, driver's license verification and level 1 background screening.