Remote Principal Civil Engineer - Project Director

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 2,500,000 - 5,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive package

Global health insurance

Retirement plan

Remote work flexibility

Leadership training

Executive coaching

Global projects exposure

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Civil Engineer to act as Project Director in a fully remote capacity. The role oversees global, multi‑million dollar civil infrastructure projects, emphasizing strategic planning, client relations, and safe, compliant delivery from a remote setting.

Ideal candidates bring 15+ years in civil engineering with 10+ years in senior PM or director roles, plus a P.Eng. or equivalent registration. International travel is anticipated to oversee diverse geographies.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Civil Engineering or related field.
• 15+ years progressive civil engineering experience with 10+ years in senior PM/director roles.
• P.Eng. or equivalent international registration.
• Proven track record managing projects valued > $50 million.

Responsibilities

• Lead execution of major civil infrastructure projects from remote locations.
• Develop strategic project plans aligned with client objectives and company goals.
• Manage budgets, timelines, and resources to meet milestones and profitability.
• Foster strong client, government, contractor, and stakeholder relationships.
• Provide senior technical guidance to multidisciplinary teams and ensure quality standards.

Skills

Project management

Leadership

Communication

Stakeholder management

Education

Master's degree in Civil Engineering

Tools

Primavera P6

MS Project

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished international engineering and construction firm, is seeking an exceptional Principal Civil Engineer to serve as a Project Director in a fully remote capacity. This senior leadership role is pivotal in overseeing the successful execution of large-scale, complex civil infrastructure projects globally. You will be responsible for strategic planning, client relationship management, team leadership, financial oversight, and ensuring the highest standards of technical delivery and safety. The ideal candidate possesses extensive experience in managing multi-million dollar projects, a deep understanding of various civil engineering disciplines, and proven leadership capabilities. This is a demanding but highly rewarding position for an experienced professional seeking to make a significant impact from a remote location, collaborating with international stakeholders and driving project success across diverse geographies. The role requires a strategic mindset, exceptional communication skills, and a proactive approach to problem-solving.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the overall execution of major civil infrastructure projects, including highways, airports, ports, and utilities, from remote locations.
• Develop and implement strategic project plans, ensuring alignment with client objectives and company goals.
• Manage project budgets, timelines, and resources effectively to achieve project milestones and profitability targets.
• Foster and maintain strong relationships with clients, government agencies, contractors, and other stakeholders.
• Provide senior technical guidance and leadership to multidisciplinary project teams, ensuring adherence to engineering best practices and quality standards.
• Oversee risk management processes, identifying potential issues and developing mitigation strategies.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant local and international regulations, safety standards, and environmental policies.
• Lead tender preparation, proposal development, and contract negotiations.
• Mentor and develop project management staff and engineering teams, promoting a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
• Conduct regular project reviews and provide performance reports to senior management and clients.
• Drive innovation in project delivery methods and technologies.
• Champion health, safety, and environmental (HSE) excellence throughout all project phases.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Civil Engineering or a related field.
• A strong background in project management is essential.
• Professional Engineer (P.Eng., PE) designation or equivalent international professional registration.
• A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in civil engineering, with at least 10 years in senior project management or director roles on large-scale infrastructure projects.
• Proven track record of successfully managing projects valued in excess of $50 million.
• Extensive experience across various civil engineering sectors such as transportation, water, or energy infrastructure.
• Demonstrated leadership and team-building skills, with the ability to manage diverse, geographically dispersed teams.
• Exceptional financial acumen and contract management experience.
• Outstanding communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Proficiency in project management software and methodologies.
• Ability to work independently, manage priorities effectively, and make strategic decisions in a remote setting.
• Willingness to travel internationally as required for project oversight and client engagement.

Benefits

• This role offers a highly attractive executive-level compensation package, including a significant base salary, performance-based bonuses, and potential equity options.
• Our client provides comprehensive global health insurance, a retirement savings plan, and generous paid time off.
• As a remote position, you benefit from unparalleled flexibility and autonomy.
• You will have the opportunity to lead world-class projects, significantly influencing global infrastructure development.
• Our client is committed to fostering professional growth through leadership training, executive coaching, and opportunities to shape company strategy.
• Join a dynamic, international team dedicated to excellence and innovation in engineering and construction.