Chief Project Engineer

New Hanover County; North Carolina; On-site; USD 83,000 - 142,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401k contributions

NC retirement plan

Flex time & telework availability

Paid sick leave

Paid holidays

Parental leave

Wellness center

Job summary

New Hanover County's Engineering Department seeks a licensed Professional Engineer to serve as Chief Project Engineer (Development Review). The role focuses on reviewing private development plans for compliance, providing drainage and stormwater guidance, and leading engineering teams.

You will supervise staff, manage projects from planning through construction, and collaborate with developers, regulatory agencies, and the public to deliver safe, sustainable infrastructure.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering required.
• Five years of progressive engineering experience including two years supervisory and project management experience in storm water, erosion control, public utilities, and site development.

Responsibilities

• Review private development plans for compliance with ordinances and standards.
• Provide drainage, stormwater management, and erosion control guidance.
• Coordinate with developers, engineers, contractors, property owners, and regulators to resolve issues.
• Supervise assigned staff, manage budgets, and oversee hiring and development needs.
• Manage projects from planning/design through permitting, bidding, construction, and closeout.

Education

Bachelor's Degree in a related Engineering field

Professional Engineer (PE) License

Job description

Chief Project Engineer (Development Review)

Are you a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) looking for an opportunity to make a meaningful impact in a thriving community? New Hanover County is seeking a Chief Project Engineer (Development Review) to join our Engineering Department and play an important role in providing safe, sustainable, and effective infrastructure and development services to the citizens of New Hanover County.

The Chief Project Engineer is a senior‑level engineering position that provides technical expertise, project management, regulatory oversight, and leadership within the Engineering Department. This position will work in a collaborative environment that values teamwork, innovation, professional development, and excellent customer service.

The Chief Project Engineer (Development Review) position focuses primarily on engineering review of private development for compliance with applicable regulations and design standards, supporting the County's responsibilities related to land development, stormwater, sedimentation and erosion control, and coastal infrastructure. The essential duties for this role include:

• Reviewing and approving private development construction plans and engineering documents for compliance with County ordinances, regulations, and technical standards.


• Providing engineering review and technical guidance related to drainage, stormwater management, and erosion and sedimentation control.


• Coordinating with developers, engineers, contractors, property owners, and regulatory agencies to resolve development‐related engineering issues.


• Providing engineering support related to sedimentation and erosion control, shore protection, and coastal infrastructure as needed.


• Interpreting and applying land development ordinances, engineering standards, and regulatory requirements to support consistent and effective development review.


• Providing professional engineering expertise and leadership for County engineering programs, projects, and initiatives.


• Supervising assigned staff by prioritizing and assigning work, conducting performance evaluations, ensuring appropriate training and development, and making hiring, termination, and disciplinary recommendations.


• Managing engineering projects from planning and design through permitting, bidding, construction, and completion, including defining project requirements, preparing bids, negotiating contracts, and developing budgets and schedules.


• Providing engineering services and technical support to County departments, consultants, contractors, regulatory agencies, and the public.


• Representing New Hanover County Engineering on the Technical Review Committee (TRC) and other committees as assigned.


• Responding to inquiries and concerns related to engineering, drainage, stormwater, development, and infrastructure matters.


• Performing field inspections and site visits to evaluate existing conditions, construction activities, drainage functionality, infrastructure condition, and compliance.


• Providing technical guidance and mentorship to engineers, inspectors, and other staff; coordinates and manages consultants and contractors.


• Assisting with departmental and program budgets, grant applications, and other funding opportunities related to County engineering programs and infrastructure.


• Providing engineering support during emergency and disaster situations.

Why Join New Hanover County?

New Hanover County's Engineering Department is committed to supporting intelligent growth and economic development while protecting the community and its natural resources. The department provides engineering services in areas including stormwater management and drainage, development plan review, sedimentation and erosion control, shore protection, and coastal infrastructure.

As a Chief Project Engineer, you will have the opportunity to work on projects and initiatives that directly affect the quality, safety, and long‑term sustainability of the community. You will collaborate with County departments, consultants, contractors, developers, regulatory agencies, and the public to develop practical engineering solutions and advance County priorities.

A Career with Impact

New Hanover County is committed to hiring talented professionals who are passionate about public service and making a difference in the community. Our employees work in an innovative, collaborative, and employee‑focused environment where professional expertise and new ideas are valued.

Our shared values of professionalism, innovation, integrity, stewardship, and accountability guide the way we serve our community and work with our customers.

If you're a licensed Professional Engineer ready to apply your expertise to projects and initiatives that have a direct impact on the community, we invite you to join the New Hanover County Engineering team.

New Hanover County's Engineering Department is a growing team of dedicated professionals who stay committed to the County's goal of intelligent growth and economic development by providing services in the areas of plan review, sedimentation and erosion control, shore protection and coastal infrastructure, stormwater management, drainage and infrastructure maintenance. Our approach focuses on compliance, rather than enforcement, in an effort to remain effective, efficient, consistent, responsive and easy to do business with as we strive to assist New Hanover County be viewed as the model of good governance.

New Hanover County is dedicated to the recruitment and recognition of a talented and diverse workforce that is committed to public service. Our shared values of professionalism, innovation, equity, integrity, stewardship and accountability guide the way we conduct ourselves and deliver services to our customers. New Hanover County celebrates diversity in our employees’ backgrounds, beliefs, identities, and abilities, while supporting growth opportunities for all. Our talented team has a passion for providing care and services that effect change on the everyday lives of the citizens they encounter. The differences that unite us are a reflection of the community we serve. If this sounds like an organization that models the values you uphold, we invite you to join our team at New Hanover County.

Living in New Hanover County, NC

New Hanover County offers an exceptional quality of life with its picturesque coastal location. Enjoy the stunning beaches, water activities, and a variety of recreational opportunities right at your doorstep. Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture, indulge in diverse dining experiences, and explore historical landmarks. The county is known for its strong sense of community, excellent schools, and a thriving arts scene. With a focus on good governance and a commitment to customer service, New Hanover County provides an ideal environment for both personal and professional growth.

Hours

8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday - Friday. Must be available to report for emergency work assignment during emergency situations.

Salary Information

Thetarget hiring rangefor this position is $83,256.00 - $112,394.50. The full salary range for an incumbent hired into this position is $83,256.00 to $141,533.00.Starting salary will be based on qualifications, relevant experience, internal equity, and budget. Candidates with exceptional qualifications and experience may be considered for a starting salary above the target hiring range, but not to exceed the maximum of the salary range.

New Hanover County offers:

• Employer paid 401k contributions;


• Retirement planthrough the NC Retirement system;


• Flex time and telework availability, depending on your position;


• Paid sick and personal leave + 13 paid holidays per year;


• Paid parental leave;


• Paid community services leave to give back to our community;


• Education leave to obtain a degree within your line of work;


• Medical, dental, and vision insurance + many other insurance options;


• Onsite, employer-paid health and wellness center;


• Professional development trainings & leadership initiatives;


• Opportunities to make a difference in your community;


• And so much more!

Education and Experience

Bachelor's Degree in a related Engineering field and five (5) years of progressively responsible engineering experience that includes two (2) years supervisory and project management experience in storm water, erosion control, public utilities, and site development.

• Valid Driver's License (if coming from out of state, NC license must be obtained within 30 days of employment)


• Professional Engineer (PE) License

Application Deadline

This position is open until filled; however, priority consideration will be given to applications received through Tuesday, September 15th, 2026.

EEO/DEI Statement

New Hanover County celebrates diversity in our employees’ backgrounds, beliefs, identities, and abilities, while supporting growth opportunities for all. Our talented team has a passion for providing care and services that effect change on the everyday lives of the citizens they encounter. The differences that unite us are a reflection of the community we serve. If this sounds like an organization that models the values you uphold, we invite you to join our team at New Hanover County.

New Hanover County is dedicated to the recruitment and recognition of a talented and diverse workforce that is committed to public service. Our shared values of professionalism, innovation, equity, integrity, stewardship, and accountability guide the way we conduct ourselves and deliver services to our customers. New Hanover County celebrates diversity in our employees’ backgrounds, beliefs, identities, and abilities.