Civil Department Head (PE)

Job Description

Job Description

About Stratus

Stratus® is an integrated, multi-disciplinary engineering, architecture, interior design, and consulting firm. Consistently ranking among the Top 500 Design Firms in Engineering News-Record, the firm offers a deep bench of industry experts through a highly collaborative approach, delivering innovative solutions across the full project lifecycle. Operating coast to coast, Stratus® serves clients nationwide while maintaining a strategic commitment to supporting high-growth economies and building vibrant communities that foster the professional growth of its team. Serving public- and private-sector clients, the firm is dedicated to delivering the highest-quality service wherever projects take shape. Across the Civic, Commercial, Industrial, Transportation, Education, Water Resources, and Government sectors, we bring precision, insight, and purpose to every project, from targeted renovations to large-scale infrastructure. Stratus® designs spaces, systems, and solutions that perform, endure, and make an impact, delivering on our promise of Better Plans. Better Places.

The Role

The Department Head, Civil (PE), is responsible for overseeing the operations of the Transportation Market's civil engineering department, ensuring the successful delivery of engineering projects while managing department resources, budgets, and staff. This role involves providing technical leadership, mentoring staff, and contributing to business development efforts to grow the department and its service offerings. The role requires strong technical expertise in civil/site engineering, land development, project management, regulatory compliance, and interdisciplinary coordination.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the daily operations of the Transportation Market’s Civil Engineering department by providing direction and oversight for technical tasks, administrative tasks, and training
• Manage department budgets, staffing, and resources, ensuring that the department operates efficiently and meets its financial goals
• Lead complex engineering projects, providing technical oversight and ensuring that designs meet regulatory standards and client expectations
• Mentor and develop engineers, fostering a culture of professional growth and continuous improvement
• Conduct quality control reviews to ensure that all project deliverables meet internal and client standards for accuracy and technical precision
• Collaborate with senior leadership on business development efforts, participating in proposal development, client meetings, and presentations to secure new projects
• Ensure compliance with codes, zoning regulations, and safety standards, oversee the permitting process, and manage interactions with regulatory authorities
• Provide input on department strategic planning, contributing insights on market trends, service offerings, and opportunities for growth
• Develop and improve department procedures and processes needed to drive efficient delivery of quality projects
• Evaluation of employee performance to provide recommendations for career development
• Represent the firm at industry events, conferences, and client meetings to increase visibility and build relationships with potential clients and partners
• Stay current with industry advancements and emerging technologies, incorporating innovative solutions into department projects when applicable
• Work collaboratively and effectively with clients and colleagues, including cross-functional teams, peers, direct reports, and leadership, fostering a positive and inclusive work environment
• Adapting to changing business needs and priorities, demonstrating flexibility in taking on new responsibilities, and adjusting to evolving challenges

Qualifications

Required

• Licensed Professional Engineer (PE)
• Bachelor's degree in civil engineering from an ABET-accredited university
• 10 + years of experience in engineering design and project management
• 4+ years of leading, training, and developing engineers
• Experience in a variety of land development project types, including:
  • Commercial
  • Industrial
  • Transportation and Infrastructure (roadway, aviation, etc.)
• Excellent communication and presentation skills for client and internal interactions
• Financial management skills for overseeing budgets and ensuring department profitability
• Strategic planning and problem-solving skills for managing department growth and challenges
• Advanced technical skills in drafting, design, and project management
• Proficiency with design and modeling software:
  • Civil 3D, AutoCAD, Hydraflow, Storm CAD, etc.

Preferred

• Experience in department leadership roles or large-scale project management
• Aviation Experience

Why you’ll love Stratus

• A team-oriented environment that values transparency, creativity, and shared success
• Meaningful career paths, leadership opportunities, and space to specialize
• Learning & Development – Education and Professional Licensing
• We believe flexible, hybrid work supports the balance and well-being our team deserves
• Excellent Health Care Programs – Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Company-paid Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, and Long-Term Disability
• Voluntary Life Insurance options for employees, spouses, and dependents
• 401k Retirement Plan with employer match
• Paid Holidays & Competitive PTO plans

Equal Opportunity Statement

Stratus is an Equal Opportunity Employer that does not discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived race, color, creed, religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, pregnancy-related conditions, and lactation), gender identity or expression (including transgender status), sexual orientation, marital status, military service and veteran status, physical or mental disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws and ordinances. Stratus Team’s management Team is dedicated to this policy with respect to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities, access to facilities and programs, and general treatment during employment.

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