City of Seattle, WA

Position Description

Can you lead one of the largest, most complex public infrastructure portfolios in the Pacific Northwest?

Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is hiring a Chief Project Delivery Officer/Project Delivery and Engineering Deputy Director to lead one of the largest and most complex capital programs in the Pacific Northwest. With more than 100 active capital projects, a $1.9 billion portfolio, and $210 million in annual investments, this executive role demands more than technical expertise—it requires a proven leader who can inspire teams, drive performance, and foster a culture of inclusion, accountability, and service excellence.

You’ll lead a workforce of 350 engineers, project managers, and technical professionals responsible for delivering infrastructure that protects public health, supports environmental goals, and reflects community values. From reducing sewer overflows and upgrading pump stations to constructing solid waste facilities and managing the landmark Ship Canal Water Quality Project, your leadership will shape the future of Seattle’s utility infrastructure.

We’re looking for someone who leads with purpose—someone who can develop people, manage complexity, and align capital investments with SPU’s commitment to equity, sustainability, and long-term resilience.

About Seattle Public Utilities: Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is a community-centered utility that delivers vital services to Seattle residents and businesses including drinking water, drainage and wastewater, and garbage/recycling/compost. SPU also provides drinking water for 1.5 million customers in the region. SPU’s work includes system maintenance and improvements and keeping Seattle clean. Over 1,400 SPU employees work with our community to provide affordable and equitable stewardship of our water and waste resources for future generations.

For more information about Seattle Public Utilities (SPU), checkout the:

• SPU Website
• Strategic Business Plan

SPU commits to Our City Values and Race and Social Justice as core principles that guide our work. We actively take steps to dismantle systemic racism and increase service equity. We value diverse life experiences and strive to create a workplace that is welcoming to all. We take steps to be inclusive and equitable in our recruiting, hiring and promotional opportunities.

We know work isn't only about what you do it’s also about who you work for and with! SPU provides a fun and family-friendly work environment that supports a work life balance, including:

• Family-friendly and multicultural work environment
• Generous benefits package
• Free Orca Pass
• City pension plan with employer/employee contributions
• Growth potential and advancement opportunities

Job Responsibilities

In this role, you can expect to:

• Lead SPU’s Project Delivery and Engineering Branch, guiding five divisions across project management, technical services, construction, and the Ship Canal Water Quality Program
• Oversee a $1.9B portfolio of over 100 active CIPs, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within scope and budget, and aligned with SPU’s Strategic Business Plan
• Manage high-impact projects, including:
  1. CSO/SSO mitigation in Lake Washington, Puget Sound, and Seattle waterways
  2. Pump station upgrades and drainage infrastructure improvements
  3. Solid waste transfer station modernization
  4. The $710M Ship Canal Water Quality Project
• Serve as SPU’s chief engineering advisor, supporting executive leadership and partnering across city departments and King County
• Champion a high-performing, inclusive organizational culture grounded in safety, engagement, innovation, and service equity
• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations related to engineering design, construction, and permitting
• Oversee continuity of operations planning (COOP) to maintain service delivery in all conditions, including natural disasters and emergencies
• Track and report on financial performance of the capital program; ensure optimal use of resources for the best return on investment for ratepayers
• Actively engage with elected officials, stakeholders, community groups, and the public to build trust and transparency in capital project delivery
• Lead strategic planning and long-term capital infrastructure decisions as part of SPU’s Executive Team
• Please note this job advertisement is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s degree in architecture, Business or Public Administration, Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Project Management, or a related field.

AND

Experience: Six (6) years of broad executive level engineering experience

Desired Experience:

• Experience leading capital projects within a municipal or public agency, including coordination across departments and jurisdictions
• Demonstrated success managing large-scale civil infrastructure programs, including full responsibility for projects exceeding $100M from planning through construction
• At least five years of supervisory experience, with a track record of building and managing high-performing, multidisciplinary teams
• Strong leadership skills in change management, team development, and service delivery excellence
• Proven commitment to environmental stewardship, public health, equity, and regulatory compliance in utility services
• Known for collaborative leadership, effective communication, and the ability to build consensus among diverse stakeholders
• Strong customer service orientation and advanced critical thinking and problem-solving capabilities
• A combination of relevant education, training, certifications, and experience will be considered when evaluating qualifications

License, Certification and Other Requirements:

• Certification as a Professional Engineer by the State of Washington or current eligibility to be licensed in the State of Washington by comity is required
• Current Washington State driver's license or evidence of equivalent mobility

Additional Information

This position allows for the flexibility of a hybrid work schedule. Effective January 2025, City employees will have the option to work remotely two days a week. Individual schedules will be agreed upon by the employee and their supervisor.

Who may apply: The City of Seattle encourages people of all backgrounds to apply, including people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ, people with disabilities, veterans, and those with diverse life experience. This position is open to all qualified candidates that meet the minimum qualifications. The City of Seattle values diverse perspectives and life experiences. Applicants will be considered regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, marital status, disability, religious or political affiliation, age, sexual orientation, or gender identity.

The full salary range for this position is: $187,752.96 - $309,775.68 ( $89.92 - $148.36 per hour)

Application Process: To be considered, submit a resume and cover letter through the City’s application portal. We encourage you to use your cover letter to discuss why you want to lead the Department of Constructions and Inspections and your vision for the department. Your resume should be comprehensive and summarize the talent, experience, knowledge, and skills you bring to this critical leadership role. Applications received by Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at 4:00PM PST will receive first consideration. The position will remain open to application until the position is filled.

For more information regarding this recruitment, please contact: Ernest Stephens at Ernest.Stephens@Seattle.gov.

The City of Seattle offers a comprehensive benefits package including vacation, holiday, and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance for employees and their dependents.

More information about employee benefits is available on the City's website at: https://www.seattle.gov/human-resources/benefits/employees-and-covered-family-members/most-employees-plans

The City of Seattle offers a comprehensive benefits package including vacation, holiday and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance for employees and their dependents.

More information about employee benefits is available on the City's website at:

"Most" Employees Plans - Human Resources | seattle.gov