Assistant Commissioner, Engineering Services

About the role

The NYC Department of Buildings ensures the safe and lawful use of buildings and properties by enforcing the NYC Construction Codes, Energy Code and Zoning Resolution. The department facilitates compliant development with integrity, efficiency and professionalism, aiming to enhance quality of life and safety for all New Yorkers. Under the direction of the Associate Commissioner, the Assistant Commissioner oversees a major division focused on engineering services, including the Cranes & Derricks, Construction Safety Engineering, Concrete Enforcement Engineering, and Sidewalk Shed Construction Progress Monitoring units.

Responsibilities

• Oversees activities of the engineering services division and performs related work.
• Develops, plans, and implements long‑term planning/strategic development for the four units.
• Analyzes engineering protocol and oversees training of highly technical staff.
• Works closely with unit managers on enforcement and code development, including developing code and rule revisions for construction safety and cranes & derricks.
• Oversees auditing of construction documents prepared by registered design professionals and special inspections agencies to ensure compliance with construction codes.
• Participates in formulation and implementation of agency policies, recommending changes as needed.
• Develops project plans identifying schedules, costs, resources, roles and responsibilities; implements division strategic plans consistent with the agency’s mission.
• Provides framework for effective management, utilizes organizational and planning skills to execute projects on time; directs work of managerial, professional, technical and support staff; sets short‑ and long‑term plans, goals, objectives and priorities; allocates resources; establishes organizational controls.
• Coordinates activities of organizational units within a bureau as necessary.
• Represents the Commissioner, Deputy Commissioner or Associate Commissioner at meetings and conferences on policy and operational issues.
• Liaises with Law Department, NYCEM, NYC Landmarks, MTA, NYCHA, NYC Parks, DOT, DDC, NYPD, FDNY, FD Marshals, and federal/state agencies regarding agency operations.
• Prepares or ensures preparation of legally mandated reports and their submission to government agencies.
• Coordinates special inspections projects with enforcement inspection units and borough offices.
• Responds to major incidents as the Department’s engineer in charge, works with DOB Command Teams, and may act as agency liaison with NYCEM on large emergencies.
• Provides recommendations to multiple agencies (NYCEM, Mayor’s Office, FDNY, NYPD) to ensure public safety during major incidents.
• Provides technical analysis and guidance for department staff, inter‑agency staff, and the public.
• Tracks and performs Q/A of incidents and accidents; assists with construction accident technical investigations.
• Provides reports and updates to senior management regarding construction safety.
• Represents the agency with the construction industry, conducts outreach presentations, and testifies before the City Council as a subject matter expert.
• Is required to be on call 24/7 and work nights/weekends/holidays as needed to respond to emergencies.
• Briefs senior management on situational status during incidents.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university and four years of satisfactory engineering experience in building design, building construction, or building equipment systems design, with at least 18 months in an administrative, managerial, executive, consultative or supervisory capacity; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• All candidates must have the 18 months of administrative, managerial, executive, consultative or supervisory experience described above.
• At least 4 years of operational experience managing teams in large, complex organizations (government, non‑profit, or corporate).
• Valid New York State License as a Professional Engineer, to be maintained for the duration of employment.
• New York City residency is generally required within 90 days of appointment; City employees with 2 continuous years of service may be eligible to reside in Nassau, Suffolk, Putnam, Westchester, Rockland, or Orange County (confirm with agency representative at interview).

Preferred Skills

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent analytical thinking, organizational, presentation, and facilitation skills.
• Ability to develop, design and implement long‑range plans, goals, and objectives.
• Time management and work prioritization skills – ability to handle multiple tasks under tight deadlines.