Construction Engineering Section Manager (Mgr 3)

ABOUT THE ROLE Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is seeking an experienced Construction Engineering Section Manager to lead the Construction Engineering Section within the Construction Management Division. This role involves managing public work programs, supervising engineering and construction staff, and acting as the construction management subject matter expert during the design phase. The manager will drive critical programs that impact infrastructure, employee safety, and community resources while ensuring consistent administration of project contracts during the construction phase. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Develop and administer comprehensive construction management standard operating procedures. - Implement organizational change using change management principles and Lean Process Improvements. - Assist subordinates with field inspection and contract administration to ensure compliance with plans, specifications, and laws. - Develop key performance indicators to monitor contract administration activities, process payments, and audit as-built records. - Create tools to determine Change Order entitlement and negotiate change orders, including independent estimates for orders over $250,000. - Ensure subordinates maintain required field documentation, construction diaries, and test reports. - Coordinate work with other SPU divisions, City Departments, external agencies, and community stakeholders. - Act as a liaison between consultants, contractors, and the City, and finalize responses to contractor correspondence. - Monitor program budget constraints and incorporate lessons learned into future design packages. - Lead and resource manage construction programs for Capital Improvement Projects, including Green Stormwater Infrastructure, pump stations, pipelines, and bridge projects. - Develop program scopes of work and manage consultant construction support contracts. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Education: Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in engineering, accounting, business administration, construction management, public policy, or a related field. - Experience: Five years of progressively responsible experience in construction management, operations, administration, project management, or public policy, including two years of experience supervising or managing staff. - Combinations of appropriate education, training, certification, and experience will be evaluated on an individual basis. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Desired qualifications include registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) in Washington State, Certified Construction Manager (CCM), Project Management Professional (PMP), and/or Certified Change Management Professional (CCMP). - Professional Civil Engineering experience emphasized in Construction Management, including stamping and sealing engineering documents. - Recent experience as a Resident Engineer for large, complex Public Works projects (water, sewer/drainage, solid waste, stream restoration). - Understanding of the CMAA or PMBOK body of knowledge. - Licensing: Current Washington State Driver's License or evidence of equivalent mobility. - Physical and Environmental: Most work is in the field with exposure to weather, traffic, and hazardous substances. Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds, work nights/weekends/holidays if required, and travel overnight. - Position Transparency: Requires physical presence to visit construction sites and support staff multiple times a week. SELECTION PROCESS Applications will be evaluated based on the minimum qualifications, submitted resume, cover letter, and responses to supplemental questions. Failure to attach the resume, cover letter, or answer the supplemental questions will result in the application not receiving further consideration. HOW TO APPLY - Fully complete the online application before the closing date of 8/18/2026 at 4:00 PM Pacific Time. - Attach a resume and a cover letter addressing your interest in the position and how your education and experience qualify you. - Respond to all required supplemental questions. - For more information, contact John Lee at john.lee3@seattle.gov. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: City of Seattle (Seattle Public Utilities) - Department: Project Delivery & Engineering Branch - Job Type: Classified Civil Service, Regular, Full-Time - Location: Seattle Municipal Tower, 700 5th Ave., Seattle, WA (Hybrid work schedule opportunities available) - Benefits: Comprehensive package including vacation, holiday, and sick leave; medical, dental, vision, life, and long-term disability insurance; Free Orca Pass; and a City pension plan with employer and employee contributions.