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 considered
• Proven 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.