Assistant Chief - (Engineering/Architecture Specialist III) - Planning, Design & Construction - DGS

About the role

The position involves managing and supervising capital projects within the Department of General Services, supporting the Chief of Planning, Design and Construction, and assisting with administrative, technical, and budgetary functions.

Responsibilities

• Assists in managing administrative functions of the Bureau, including capital budget preparation, expenditure tracking, and resource planning for staffing, materials, and equipment.
• Develops and supervises development of new programs and expansion of existing programs; supervises, coordinates and manages budgeted operations.
• Serves as project manager for major capital projects, overseeing planning, design, procurement, and construction phases to ensure projects are delivered on schedule, within budget, and in accordance with quality standards.
• Reviews engineering and architectural plans, drawings, and specifications for completeness, constructability, and compliance with codes, standards, and County requirements.
• Manages project documentation, reports, and database systems related to capital program management.
• Coordinates with County departments, external agencies, consultants, and contractors to facilitate project execution and resolve technical or administrative challenges.
• Provides customer service and information to the general public on construction complaints and construction schedules.
• Manages the administrative details of special programs such as Performance Appraisal Review Training, and Computer Hardware & Software selection, implementation, training, and publishing related manuals.
• Enforces documentation, filing, and retention standards.

Requirements

Minimum Required Education/Experience: Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Engineering or a closely related field and a minimum of four (4) years of progressively responsible experience. Required Certifications, Licenses, and Registrations: Registered Architect (State of Maryland)/Registered Professional Engineer (State of Maryland). Possession of a valid driver's license.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated knowledge of the principles, practices, and methods of planning, design, and construction for public infrastructure and building projects, including but not limited to site development, utilities (water, sewer, stormwater management), transportation systems, and vertical building construction.
• Strong knowledge of applicable codes, regulations, and standards, with the ability to interpret and enforce requirements in a consistent, professional, and impartial manner.
• Proven ability to manage complex capital projects, including budget development and control, consultant coordination, contract administration, and construction oversight.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with a strong emphasis on collaboration and customer service.

Skills

• Project Management Professional certification.
• Ability to respond effectively to inquiries or complaints from customers, regulatory agencies, or members of the business community.
• Ability to provide clear, concise, and professional review comments to consultants in the role of senior project manager.

Benefits

Howard County Government offers competitive compensation and great benefits including medical, retirement, and wellness programs.

Pay

$95,019 - $162,698

Schedule

Full-time, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Occasional evening and weekend work may be required.