Senior Assistant Director

Houston Public Works; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Houston Public Works in Houston is seeking a Senior Assistant Director to lead the Traffic Operations branch, directing traffic signal systems, ITS, and related infrastructure to ensure a safe and efficient transportation network.

You will set performance targets, guide modernization efforts, and coordinate with TxDOT, METRO, Harris County, and regional partners while providing executive leadership during emergencies and major events.

Qualifications

• More than ten years of experience in traffic operations or related field.
• Bachelor's degree or higher in a related field.
• Active PE license and PTOE certification.
• Ability to manage traffic operations in high-growth, high-congestion urban environments.
• Strong communication with executive leadership and the public.

Responsibilities

• Directs the operation and maintenance of traffic signals, ITS, and street lighting.
• Establishes performance metrics and service level targets for traffic systems.
• Leads modernization and smart mobility initiatives.
• Oversees signal timing, re-timing programs, and corridor optimization.
• Collaborates with TxDOT, METRO, Harris County, and partner agencies.
• Provides executive leadership during emergency weather events and other crises.

Skills

Leadership

Public speaking

Strategic planning

Traffic operations knowledge

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree or higher in related field

Professional Engineer (PE) license

PTOE certification

Job description

DIVISION: TRANSPORTATION & DRAINAGE OPERATIONS

REPORTING LOCATION: 2200 PATTERSON*

WORKDAYS & HOURS: MONDAY - FRIDAY 8AM - 5PM*

*Subject to change

ABOUT HOUSTON PUBLIC WORKS

Houston Public Works (HPW) plays a vital role in ensuring a thriving and sustainable future for our city. We oversee the planning, operation, maintenance, construction management, and technical engineering of the City's public infrastructure, including our roadways, bridges, drainage systems, and parks. With a dedicated workforce of approximately 3,900 employees, we are constantly striving for excellence in delivering essential services to our community.

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES/ ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Under the direction of the Deputy Director of Transportation & Drainage Operations, the Senior Assistant Director will direct the efficient management of the Traffic Operations branch. This position provides executive leadership, strategic direction, and operational oversight for the City of Houston’s traffic management, maintenance and operations systems. This role is responsible for planning, designing, operating, and maintaining a safe, efficient, and resilient transportation network that supports mobility, safety, economic vitality, and quality of life for residents, businesses, and visitors. The Senior Assistant Director leads multidisciplinary teams responsible for traffic signal operations, intelligent transportation systems (ITS), traffic engineering, street lighting, pavement markings, signage, and special event management.

Example of duties:

• Directs the operation and maintenance of approximately 2,500 traffic signals and 1,400 school zone flashers, prioritizing public safety and efficient traffic flow
• Establishes performance metrics, operational standards, and service level targets for traffic systems
• Lead long-term planning for modernization of traffic control infrastructure, ITS expansion, and smart mobility initiatives
• Champions the adoption and integration of innovative transportation solutions, making strategic recommendations for their implementation to enhance Houston’s traffic systems
• Oversees traffic signal timing, re-timing programs, adaptive signal systems, and corridor optimization
• Develops and implements long-term transportation strategies to reduce congestion and improve infrastructure
• Develops and implements citywide traffic operations strategies aligned with Houston’s transportation, safety, and mobility goals
• Implements proactive congestion management, event traffic planning, and special operations for emergencies and major events
• Collaborates with TxDOT, METRO, Harris County, emergency responders, regional planning organizations, and partner agencies
• Supports public outreach, responds to community concerns, and communicates traffic impacts and improvements
• Champions the adoption of emerging technologies such as connected vehicles, AI-based analytics, adaptive control, and smart infrastructure
• Promotes workforce development, succession planning, and continuous professional training
• Provides executive leadership during emergency weather events

WORKING CONDITIONS

The position is physically comfortable, the individual has discretion about walking, standing, etc. There are no major sources of discomfort, i.e., essentially normal office environment with acceptable lighting, temperature and air conditions.

This is a Department of Houston Public Works Emergency Management position at the Tier I Level.

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

Requires a thorough understanding of both theoretical and practical aspects of an analytical, technical or professional discipline; or the basic knowledge of more than one professional discipline. Knowledge of the discipline would normally be obtained through a formal 4-year degree from a college or university and a professional certification/licensing is required.

Directly related professional experience may be substituted for the education requirement on a year-for-year basis.

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

More than ten years of experience is required.

Directly related professional experience may be substituted for the education requirement on a year-for-year basis.

LICENSE REQUIREMENTS

Valid driver's license and compliance with the City of Houston driving policy (A.P. 2-2).

PREFERENCES

• A Bachelor's degree or higher in a related field of study.
• An active Professional Engineer (PE) license and Professional Traffic Operations Engineer (PTOE) certification.
• Demonstrates ability to manage traffic operations in high-growth, high-congestion urban environments with diverse multi modal needs.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to clearly convey technical information to executive leadership, elected officials, and the public.

Preference shall be given to eligible veteran applicants provided such persons possess the qualifications necessary for competent discharge of the duties involved in the position applied for, such persons are among the most qualified candidates for the position, and all other factors in accordance with Executive Order 1-6.

GENERAL INFORMATION

SELECTION / SKILLS TESTS REQUIRED

SAFETY IMPACT POSITION

Yes

If yes, this position is subject to random drug testing and if a promotional position, candidate must pass an assignment drug test.

SALARY INFORMATION

Factors used in determining the salary offered include the candidate's qualifications as well as the pay rates of other employees in this classification.

PAY GRADE 34

EOE Equal Opportunity Employer

The City of Houston is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.