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Job Description
CAREER DESCRIPTION
SENIOR ENGINEERING MANAGER
(Engineering Manager, Senior)
THIS RECRUITMENT IS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
This recruitment is open to the public and is being held to establish an open eligible list to fill current and future Engineering Manager, Senior vacancies. The eligible list established from this recruitment may also be used to fill positions in similar and/or lower classifications throughout the County of Orange.
DEADLINE TO APPLY
Qualified applicants are encouraged to apply immediately on both the ADK website and through the County of Orange's website.
The ADK Executive Search link will be provided below.
Please note - in order to be considered, all candidates must complete the County of Orange's application.
The deadline to apply for this position is Monday , December 29, 2025 at 11:59PM PST.
To view the full recruitment brochure with ADK Executive Search, please click here!
JOHN WAYNE AIRPORT
Ranked #1 in Customer Satisfaction among Large Airports in the J.D. Power 2024 and 2025 North America Airport Satisfaction Study, John Wayne Airport (JWA) has been a major cornerstone of Orange County for more than 100 years. Located in beautiful Southern California, we currently serve approximately 11.7 million annual passengers. We strive to provide a superior guest experience to ensure travel is convenient and stress-free. The County of Orange owns and operates the airport and the service area includes more than three million people within 34 cities and unincorporated areas of Orange County and beyond.
As a medium hub airport, we have commercial flights to more than 40 nonstop destinations in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada. Eleven commercial airlines and two air cargo airlines fly out of the Airport. It is home to nearly 500 general aviation (private, non-commercial) aircraft, representing 60% of total operations, and includes two full-service fixed base operators and one limited use general aviation facility.- Mission: Connecting People, Places and Opportunities.
- Vision: To be an airport of choice by creating exceptional experiences.
- Core Values: REACH
- R espect
- E nvironmental Stewardship
- A ccountability
- C ollaboration
- H onesty
To learn more about working at John Wayne Airport, click here. To learn more about the County of Orange, click here.
SERVICE AREA
The newly reformed Planning and Development Division oversees and delivers the airport's $700 million Capital Improvement Program (CIP), which includes airside, landside, and terminal renovations, as well as major utility projects and long-term infrastructure planning. The Division is also a key partner in the implementation of the General Aviation Improvement Program and the Terminal Tenant Concession Redevelopment Program. This team has 28 professionals in a variety of roles. This Division’s functional areas include engineering, A/E design standards, land use and airport planning, environmental compliance, capital project programming, project management, project controls, and construction Coordination and Logistics Management (CALM).
THE OPPORTUNITY
John Wayne Airport (JWA) is seeking an experienced Airport Engineering Manager ( Engineering Manager, Senior) to lead a team of engineering and architecture professionals. This leadership role is critical to the success of JWA’s Maintenance Programs, which directly support all operational units within the Service Area.
The Airport Engineering manager requires a seasoned administrator and innovative problem-solver. This position required a high level of discretion, accountability, and technical expertise in developing and implementing operation policies, procedures, and methodologies.
Key Responsibilities:- Lead and manage a team of engineers, architects, inspectors, and technical staff on complex projects and design studies
- Oversee the development and execution of a $20 million annual Maintenance Improvement Program (MIP), modeled after the Capital Improvement Program (CIP)
- Oversee the GIS asset-centric mapping and maintenance, annual maintenance workplan development, and monitoring/assessment of in-house average daily production (ADP) rates
- Conduct engineering evaluations of vertical and horizontal airport infrastructure and systems, technical training, and project peer reviews
- In collaboration with other stakeholders, ensure accountability in the development of sound Project Definition Documents
- Oversee budgeting, planning, and directing team operations to align with departmental goals
- Hire, mentor, and evaluate staff performance while fostering a culture of safety and innovation
- Promote open communication between staff and the Deputy Airport Director
- Collaborate with other JWA departments and units to ensure integration of engineering initiatives
DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS AND CORE COMPETENCIES
The ideal candidate will posses five (5) or more years of experience performing the duties of a professional civil engineer in California, which must include two (2) years of lead/supervisory experience.
In addition, the successful candidate will possess three (3) or more years of professional engineering experience working on airport projects.
The most successful candidates will also possess the following core competencies:
Technical Knowledge and Experience- Thorough knowledge of the principles of engineering, architecture, and building construction practices and uniform building codes, Cal-OSHA building construction regulations, ADA, California Environmental Quality Act
- Thorough knowledge of FAA Airport Design standards, regulations, and advisory circulars and grant assurance requirements
- Applies knowledge of airport guidelines, safety regulations, established standards, and safe work practices
- Technical knowledge to manage architectural and engineering staff and consultants, define appropriate A/E design study scopes of work and apply the input of the A/E studies to the development of Project Definition Documents and provide input in the development of the Capital Improvement Plan
- Exercises sound judgment in selecting and utilizing personnel , materials, and equipment in alignment with airport standards and public expectations
- Builds and maintains strong working relationships with subordinates, peers, management, and external agencies to support effective collaboration and public engagement
Results Oriented- Set challenging, measurable project goals aligned with airport business objectives
- Plan, organize, and implement projects to meet established time frames and cost containments
- As opportunities arise, re-engineer business processes and improve organizational effectiveness by proposing and implementing initiatives to improve efficiency, streamline operations and meet current and future business needs
- Set appropriate priorities and modify as needed
- Accountable and personal performance and goal achievement and maintains sufficient content and knowledge to perform all aspects of the job effectively
- Collaborate with colleagues to align engineering and architectural projects with corporate strategies and objectives
- Use management skills to ensure the roll-out of organizational initiatives are delivered on time, on spec, with quality, and within budget
- Conduct organizational and team assessments to develop and implement successful, proactive workforce and strategic plans
- Ability to identify, research, evaluate, estimate, interpret, and apply technical data and policy information
- Recognizes potential problems, gathers relevant information, establishes facts, and draws valid conclusions
- Collects and analyzes cost and other data to prepare and present findings and recommendations
- Prioritizes workload effectively to meet deadlines and organizational goals
- Organizes and maintains complex records with accuracy and attention to detail
Communication Skills
- Effectively presents proposals, progress reports, and recommendations to the highest levels in the organization including the Airport Commission, County executive management, private sector executives, contractors, and external stakeholders, clearly, concisely, logically, and persuasively, both orally and in writing
- Effectively listens and develops practical strategies to achieve both short- and long-term objectives
- Ability to communicate using both technical and non-technical language
- Ability to develop collaborative relationships with employees, management peers, executive staff, the Board of Supervisors, outside agencies, and the community
Leadership- Effectively leads a high-performance, results-oriented team to implement organizational goals while balancing competing needs and objectives
- Coordinates collaboratively with other manages and executive staff to ensure alignment across departments
- Directs, persuades, motivates, trains, and evaluates subordinate staff to support performance and development
- Develops strategic plans for project completion and delegates assignments appropriately to meet deadlines
- Makes well-informed, objective decisions that align with organizational goals and considers their impact on development
- Evaluates political and organizational issues while working collaboratively with government officials, partners, and public stakeholders to address emerging challenges
- Resolves conflict constructively and works collaboratively to achieve time-sensitive results
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Click here for information on the minimum qualifications, physical, mental, environmental and working conditions for the for Engineering Manager, Sr.
LICENSE REQUIRED- Possess and maintain a valid California Driver's license, Class C or higher as well as the ability to obtain and maintain a TSA Security and Clearance is required by date of appointment
- State of California Professional Engineer (PE)
AIRPORT ACCESS REQUIREMENTS
Employees must clear a background check, which includes a Criminal History Records Check (CHRC), Transportation Security Administration (TSA) check, and Security Threat Assessment (STA) check. Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid Airport Access Badge with an Airport Driving Endorsement within ten (10) days of employment. Airport Access Badge must be maintained and renewed every two (2) years.
RECRUITMENT PROCESS
Human Resource Services (HRS) will screen applications and supplemental responses for qualifications that meet minimum qualifications, are highly desirable, and are most needed to successfully perform the duties of this job. Only those applicants that meet the qualifications as listed in the job bulletin will be referred to the assessment step.
Application Screening | (Refer/Non-Refer)
Applications and supplemental responses will be screened for qualifications that are highly desirable and most needed to successfully perform the duties of this job. Only those candidates that meet the qualifications as listed in the job bulletin will be referred to the next step.
Application Appraisal Panel (AAP) | (Weighted 100%)
An Appraisal Panel (AAP) of job knowledge experts will thoroughly screen and evaluate the application, supplemental questionnaire, and resumes for job knowledge, competencies, and related experience described above.
Structured Oral Interview (SOI) | EXAM (Weighted 100%)
Applications and supplemental responses will be screened for qualifications that are highly desirable and most needed to successfully perform the duties of this job. Only those candidates that meet the qualifications as listed in the job bulletin will be referred to the next step.
Eligible List | Score Groups
Once all assessments have been completed, HRS will establish an eligible list of candidates. Candidates placed on the eligible list may be referred to a selection interview to be considered for present and future vacancies.
Please note: The information you provide on your application and/or response to the supplemental questions may be used as a scoring device, so please be thorough and complete in your response. "See Resume" is not a qualifying response and will not be scored in lieu of the required information.
Based on the Department's needs, the selection procedures listed above may be modified. All candidates will be notified of any changes in the selection procedure.
Veterans Employment Preference
The County is committed to providing a mechanism to give preferential consideration in the employment process to veterans and their eligible spouses and will provide eligible participants the opportunity to receive interviews in the selection process for employment and paid internship openings. Please click here to review the policy.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
EMAIL NOTIFICATION
Email is the primary form of notification during the recruitment process. Please ensure your correct email address is included in our application and use only one email account.
Candidates will be notified regarding their status as the recruitment proceeds via email through the GovernmentJobs.com site. Please check your email folders, including spam/junk folders, and/or accept emails ending with "governmentjobs.com" and "ocgov.com." If your email address should change, please update your profile atwww.governmentjobs.com.
NOTE: User accounts are established for one person only and should not be shared with another person. Multiple applications with multiple users may jeopardize your status in the recruitment process for any positions for which you apply.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Click here for additional Frequently Asked Questions.
For specific information pertaining to this recruitment, contact Michelle Bocicor at mbocicor@ocair.com.
EEO INFORMATION
Orange County, as an equal employment opportunity employer, encourages
applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply.
Administrative Management *
In addition to the County's standard suite of benefits -- such as a variety of health plan options, sick and vacation time and paid holidays -- we also offer an excellent array of benefits such as:
- Retirement: Benefits are provided through the Orange County Employees' Retirement System (OCERS). Please go to the following link to find out more about Defined Benefit Pensions and OCERS Plan Types/Benefits.
http://www.ocers.org/active-member-information. - Paid Leave: Twelve holidays per year plus sick and vacation time
- Health & Dependent Care Reimbursement Accounts
- Dental Insurance: County pays 100% of employee and dependent premiums
- Paid Life Insurance: $100,000 life insurance policy
- Paid Accidental & Death and Dismemberment Insurance: $100,000 AD&D insurance policy
- Paid Short & Long Term Disability insurance programs
- 457 Defined Contribution Program
*Effective 07/01/20, management employees who are sworn Public Safety Managers receive health insurance benefits through the AOCDS Medical Benefit Plans.
Click here for information about benefits offered to County of Orange employees.
Closing Date/Time: 12/29/2025 11:59 PM Pacific -
ABOUT THE COMPANY
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County of Orange
Show moreDiscover a Fulfilling Career at the County of Orange
With a population of over 3 million residents and 34 cities, Orange County is a thriving community known for its beautiful beaches, diverse culture, and strong economy. As the third-largest employer in the county, the County of Orange offers over 18,000 employees the opportunity to make a difference in their community and build a fulfilling career in public service.
As a County of Orange employee, you will have the chance to work in a variety of departments, each providing vital services to our community. From law enforcement and healthcare to public works and environmental protection, there is a wide range of career paths to explore. And with opportunities for advancement and professional growth, you can build a long and rewarding career with us.
As a top employer in the region, the County of Orange is committed to providing our employees with excellent benefits, including a competitive salary, flexible work schedules, and outstanding healthcare coverage. We also offer opportunities for career development and training, ensuring that our employees have the skills and knowledge they need to succeed.
Whether you're just starting your career or looking for a new challenge, the County of Orange is a great place to work. With a supportive and collaborative work environment, a commitment to excellence, and opportunities for growth and advancement, we invite you to join our team and make a difference in your community.
Community Impact:
Working for the County of Orange means you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in your community. Whether you're providing critical services to residents, protecting the environment, or maintaining public safety, your work will make a difference in the lives of those around you.
Employee Wellness:
At the County of Orange, we prioritize our employees' well-being. We offer telecommuting options, generous health benefits, and wellness programs to promote work-life balance. We believe that by taking care of our employee’s health and well-being, we can help them excel in their careers while still enjoying their personal lives and taking care of their families.
Innovation:
The County of Orange is committed to embracing new technologies and innovative approaches to service delivery. We encourage our employees to think creatively and find ways to improve our processes and systems. If you're someone who loves to problem-solve and think outside the box, you'll find a supportive and dynamic environment here.
Collaboration:
Collaboration is key to our success at the County of Orange. We value teamwork, communication, and mutual support, and we work together across departments and functions to achieve our goals. If you're someone who enjoys collaborating with others and building strong relationships, you'll find a welcoming and inclusive community here.
Equality:
At the County of Orange, we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and respected. Our Equity Policy reflects this commitment and guides our efforts to promote equity, diversity, and inclusion in everything we do.
Career Advancement:
The County of Orange is dedicated to helping our employees grow and advance in their careers. We offer a variety of training and development opportunities to help our employees reach their full potential. If you're looking for a place to build a long and fulfilling career, the County of Orange is an excellent choice.
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