Assistant Deputy Director, E&ES & Utilities

Durham County; Durham (NC); Hybrid; USD 113,000 - 164,000; Full time

Job summary

Durham County is seeking an Assistant Deputy Director of Engineering & Environmental Services to oversee POTW operations, water distribution, and reclaimed water infrastructure. You will lead executive-level technical guidance, ensure regulatory compliance, and support economic development through strategic utility planning.

The role includes supervising staff, managing budgets, approving contracts, and coordinating with County leadership to advance infrastructure projects and long-range plans.

Qualifications

• Requires a bachelor’s degree in civil or environmental engineering and PE licensure in NC.
• Seven (7) years of progressively responsible utility engineering, public works, or utility management experience.
• At least three (3) to five (5) years of supervisory or management experience.

Responsibilities

• Provide executive leadership for planning, operation, maintenance, regulatory compliance, and financial sustainability of utility systems.
• Oversee CIP planning, budgeting, and capital project execution.
• Ensure safety standards and regulatory compliance across all utility operations.
• Manage contracts, procurement, and consultant engagements; review invoices and progress.
• Develop workforce development, succession planning, and performance metrics.
• Collaborate with Board, County leadership, and stakeholders on strategic utility initiatives.

Skills

Supervisory leadership

Budget & financial planning

Regulatory compliance

Strategic planning

Strong communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in civil/environmental engineering

Professional Engineer (P.E.) in NC

Tools

Project management software

Excel / spreadsheets

Data dashboards

Job description

Durham County is seeking an Assistant Deputy Director of Engineering & Environmental Services to oversee POTW operations, water distribution, and reclaimed water infrastructure. You will lead executive-level technical guidance, ensure regulatory compliance, and support economic development through strategic utility planning.

The role includes supervising staff, managing budgets, approving contracts, and coordinating with County leadership to advance infrastructure projects and long-range plans.