Public Works Director / Chief Engineer

Job description

Amentum, a global leader in advanced engineering, technical, and professional services serving the US government, allies, and critical infrastructure sectors, is seeking a Public Works Director / Chief Engineer to support a unique US Navy program based on the island of Diego Garcia. This position is responsible for overseeing the operations, maintenance, and management of public works systems and infrastructure to ensure compliance with government and contractual requirements. Job Responsibilities: Direct and oversee the day-to-day operations and activities of the Public Works Department, ensuring the efficient functioning and maintenance of utility systems, facilities, roads, and public infrastructure. Develop and implement comprehensive policies, procedures, and schedules for infrastructure operation, maintenance, and repair to meet customer needs and ensure compliance with performance standards. Manage all aspects of engineering and maintenance operations, including environmental programs, systems upgrades, and lifecycle management. Ensure proper allocation of resources, including labor, materials, and equipment, to meet contract performance requirements and operational priorities. Monitor and manage budgets for public works projects and activities to ensure compliance with financial objectives. Coordinate engineering designs, technical solutions, and construction efforts for projects related to the improvement, repair, or expansion of infrastructure elements. Ensure adherence to health, safety, and environmental policies, including compliance with local laws, U.S. government regulations, and contractual obligations. Supervise and mentor Public Works Department staff to promote professional growth, ensuring high performance and team collaboration. Prepare and deliver detailed operational and project status reports to program leadership, government representatives, and the client. Act as the primary point of contact with the client and government representatives regarding technical and operational aspects of public works projects and initiatives. Facilitate emergency response and manage contingency plans for operational failures or crisis situations. Stay informed of new technologies, regulations, and industry standards to enhance and modernize public works operations. Minimum Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field (equivalent experience may be considered in lieu of education). 8-10 years of progressively responsible experience in public works operations, infrastructure management, facilities maintenance, or a related field. Demonstrated leadership experience managing large teams of technicians, engineers, and other personnel, ideally in public works or a government contracting environment. Comprehensive knowledge of public works systems, including utilities, roads, buildings, environmental systems, and general infrastructure. Strong project management skills, including managing schedules, budgets, and resources for large-scale maintenance and construction projects. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with fluency in English (written and verbal). Proficiency with engineering software, workflow management systems, and Microsoft Office Suite applications. Must be in possession of a valid passport and be able to travel internationally. Passport should be valid for a minimum of one (1) year or more at the time of hiring. Ability to successfully pass contract medical requirements and maintain requirements for the duration of deployment. Preferred Qualifications: Master’s degree in Civil or Mechanical Engineering or related field. Registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) or equivalent certification. Prior experience in an austere OCONUS (Outside the Continental United States) environment with a multi-national workforce is preferred. Demonstrated experience operating within U.S. government or military public works environments. Familiarity with NAVFAC (Naval Facilities Engineering Command) standards and procedures. Certifications in project or construction management (e.g., PMP or CCM). Familiarity with energy conservation programs or environmental compliance initiatives. Ability to manage complex technical systems with minimal supervision in a challenging, remote operational environment. OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES Safety: Amentum enforces a safety culture whereby all employees have the responsibility for continuously developing and maintaining a safe work environment. As appropriate, each employee is responsible for completing all training requirements and fulfilling all self-aid/buddy aid responsibilities, participating in emergency response tasks, and serving on safety committees and teams. Quality: Quality is the foundation for the management of our business and the keystone to our goal of customer satisfaction. It is our policy to consistently provide services that meet customer expectations. Accordingly, each employee must conform to the Amentum Quality Policy and carry out job activities in compliance with applicable Amentum Quality System documents and customer contracts. Each employee must read and understand their Quality Management and Customer Satisfaction responsibilities. Procedure Compliance: Each employee must read, understand, and implement the general and specific operational, safety, quality, and environmental requirements of all plans, procedures, and policies pertaining to the job.