Director of Engineering, Smart Utility Infrastructure

Our client, a leading U.S. infrastructure services company, is seeking a dynamic and experienced Director of Engineering, Smart Infrastructure to join their team in Atlanta, GA. This high-impact leadership role will oversee a large, multidisciplinary engineering group focused on the development and deployment of advanced SCADA systems, PLC/HMI programming, and remote monitoring technologies for water and wastewater facilities. With full P&L responsibility and direct oversight of 50–80 team members, this individual will play a critical role in scaling the company’s digital infrastructure capabilities and driving operational excellence. The ideal candidate brings deep technical expertise, strong business acumen, and a passion for innovation in the utility sector. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of smart water systems and lead strategic engineering initiatives that make a tangible difference in communities across North America.Responsibilities include:Lead and manage a team of 50–80 professionals, including Project Managers and Design Engineers, with a focus on PLC programming, customized HMI design, and remote monitoring and control of water and wastewater utility processes.Provide strategic oversight of engineering programs related to SCADA systems and remote monitoring technologies.Ensure effective project execution across multiple workstreams, maintaining alignment with technical standards and company objectives.Own and manage departmental P&L, ensuring financial accountability, forecasting accuracy, and budget adherence.Drive team performance through clear goal-setting, coaching, and development of engineering and technical staff.Partner with executive leadership to align engineering initiatives with business strategy and customer needs.Develop and refine engineering processes and systems to ensure high-quality, scalable, and compliant infrastructure solutions.Support the recruitment, onboarding, and retention of top engineering talent.Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and implement innovative digital infrastructure solutions.Collaborate cross-functionally with operations, finance, and client services to ensure seamless project delivery.Serve as a senior technical advisor and escalation point for complex engineering challenges and client needs.Ensure all engineering activities comply with regulatory standards, safety protocols, and industry best practices.Qualifications include:BS or MS in Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, or a related technical discipline. MBA or advanced degree in business or engineering is a plus.10–15 years of industry experience in engineering, utilities, or infrastructure services, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.Strong background in SCADA systems, remote monitoring technologies, and industrial control systems; hands-on experience with PLC and HMI programming, integration, and system architecture.Experience in the water/wastewater industry is preferred, but utility experience in other sectors will be consideredProven ability to lead and scale large technical teams, ideally managing 50+ engineers, managers, and support staff.Strong business acumen, with direct experience managing budgets, forecasting, and full P&L ownership.Familiarity with long-term service contracts and operations in regulated utility environments.Working knowledge of cybersecurity principles as they apply to critical infrastructure and remote access systems.Effective communicator and strategic thinker with the ability to bridge technical and business functions.Ability to drive performance, cultivate a high-accountability culture, and lead through change and growth.Our client is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Created: 2025-07-05