Utilities Engineering

SENIOR UTILITIES ENGINEER (CE IV)

Overview

The Senior Right-of-Way Engineer provides high-level leadership and technical oversight for the City’s Utility Inspections team and supports the overall management of the Permits and Inspections Division within the Department of Transportation and Environmental Services (T&ES). This position directly oversees the Utility Inspection program, supervising a team of four Utility Inspectors (I/II) responsible for monitoring all private utility installations within the City’s right-of-way. In addition, the Senior Right-of-Way Engineer assists the Division Chief of the Permits and Inspections Division in overseeing all operations, including the Permit Center, development project reviews, and coordination across City departments to ensure efficient and consistent service delivery. The role ensures that all work complies with City codes, permit requirements, and engineering standards, while coordinating with utility companies, developers, and internal departments to minimize conflicts and maintain infrastructure integrity.

The Opportunity

Directly supervise, mentor, and evaluate the Utility Inspections team; provide technical guidance, work scheduling, and performance oversight.

Assist the Division Chief of the Permits and Inspections Division with the oversight of all division functions, including the Permit Center, development project coordination, and process improvements.

Review and provide engineering input on private utility permit applications, construction drawings, and field inspection reports.

Evaluate and provide recommendations on utility franchise and license agreements, ensuring compliance with City policies, standards, and right-of-way requirements.

Lead the development and implementation of policies, procedures, and technical standards related to utility construction and enforcement in the public right-of-way.

Support the Division Chief in developing and tracking division-wide performance metrics, workload management, and interdepartmental coordination.

Coordinate closely with the GIS division to maintain and enhance a comprehensive utility coordination map illustrating all active public and private projects citywide.

Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to support citywide capital projects, private development coordination, and permit processing efficiencies.

Provide subject matter expertise in erosion and sediment control implementation consistent with the Virginia Erosion and Sediment Control Handbook and DEQ legal requirements.

Ensure compliance with City codes, ordinances, and best management practices related to public infrastructure and right-of-way.

Represent the City at inter-agency and utility coordination meetings; respond to inquiries from residents, businesses, and elected officials.

Operate effectively in a dynamic, fast-paced environment balancing field and office duties while meeting established deadlines.

About the Department

T&ES is a community partner in shaping a livable, green, and prospering Alexandria. We plan, build, operate, and maintain transportation systems and infrastructure that improve mobility and provide people and businesses with core public services. The work we do keeps Alexandrians moving, growing sustainability, and thriving.

The Ideal Candidate

To qualify for this position all candidates must possess a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or other related field and eight (8) years of experience; or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. Must possess, or obtain within six months of employment, a license to practice as a Registered Professional Engineer in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Strong knowledge of utility design, construction, and inspection practices for both wet and dry utilities.

In-depth understanding of right-of-way management, permitting processes, and erosion and sediment control standards.

Demonstrated experience in supervisory or leadership roles within engineering, permitting, or inspection programs.

Exceptional communication skills (oral and written) for engaging with diverse stakeholders, including utility representatives, contractors, developers, and the public.

Proficiency with GIS and permitting systems (Cityworks experience preferred).

Ability to manage multiple priorities while ensuring compliance, safety, and quality standards are maintained.

Strong organizational, analytical, and collaborative problem-solving abilities to support division-wide initiatives.

This position requires the successful completion of pre-employment background check.

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