The Columbus Consolidated Government is seeking a new Director of Engineering. Located in west-central Georgia on the banks of the Chattahoochee River, Columbus is a dynamic cosmopolitan community of 206,919 citizens within its 221 square miles. Columbus is Georgia’s first consolidated city/county government, the second largest city in Georgia, and is a recognized leader among its peer cities. It takes pride in its operational efficiency and the excellent quality of life it fosters. The city has become a model for effective public/private partnerships. Such partnerships have spurred significant economic development and cultural and recreational growth. Columbus is known for its historic downtown/uptown district near the breathtaking Riverwalk. In addition to its thriving economic development, Columbus offers excellent education, housing, entertainment, retail/shopping/dining opportunities, and experiences that are second to none. The cost of living is quite competitive, and the quality of life gives you a sense of belonging.
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The Department of Engineering with its five divisions and 44 employees with a total budget of approximately $4.5M, provides an enhanced quality of life for all citizens who live and work in the region by delivering an effective and safe transportation system to move people and goods throughout the community, and providing management that is environmentally sensitive to our natural resources through the oversight of stormwater and drainage infrastructure; and provide data, construction, and communication support to other city departments by the effective and efficient delivery of geographical information, construction management and radio communications. The department is responsible for the development and execution of capital projects during the planning, design, permitting, and construction phases including coordination with City Departments, consultants, and regulatory agencies. It provides a comprehensive site plan review for development within Muscogee County; and provides permits for Minor Land Disturbance, Encroachment/Driveway, Outdoor Café Encroachment, and Site Development. The Director of Engineering is responsible for directing the overall activities of the Engineering Department including GIS, stormwater, design and contract administration for roads and stormwater capital projects, permitting and inspection for site development, utilities, traffic signal design and operation, traffic control maintenance, radio communications, and assist with transportation planning. The successful candidate will be a strong and confident leader and manager with professional presence. The candidate must have effective interpersonal skills and be able to communicate and present complex information to elected officials, administration, employees, and the public.
Minimum Qualifications
• Bachelor's Degree required in Civil Engineering, Traffic Engineering, Public Administration or related field.
• Experience sufficient to thoroughly understand the diverse objectives and functions of the subunits in the department to direct and coordinate work within the department, usually interpreted to require three to five years of related experience.
• Certification as a Professional Engineer is preferred, but not required.
• Possession of or ability to readily obtain a valid driver's license issued by the State of Georgia for the type of vehicle or equipment operated.
Compensation and Benefits
Salary for this position will be established commensurate with the experience and qualifications of the selected candidate. Starting salary is expected to be in the range of $126,000 - $150,000. The city offers a comprehensive benefits package, including low-cost health, dental, vision and life insurance options. Flexible spending and wellness center benefits are available. The city provides paid time off including sick, vacation and holiday leave and a competitive retirement plan. Negotiable relocation expenses.

How to Apply
Interested candidates must submit by email a cover letter, resume, a list of at least five professional references with names, phone numbers and email address and salary history to Lisa Ward at lisaward912@gmail.com. This position is "open until filled" which means that there is no specific closing date but will remain open to receive applications until a suitable candidate is selected. Applications will be reviewed continuously by the city for possible interviews as they are received beginning July 1, 2024. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible to ensure that their qualifications are considered in a timely manner. Please direct any questions to Lisa Ward, Senior Associate, Mercer Group Associates at 706-983-9326.
Alan Reddish, Senior Associate, Mercer Group Associates, Cell: 706-614-4961