Director of Architecture, Engineering and Environmental Services

Milwaukee County oversees operations from our Airport, Behavioral Health, Child Support Enforcement, Combined Court Operations, Sheriffs Department, Community Reintegration Center, Human Services, Parks, Public Safety, Public Works, Fleet Operations, Transportation, and at the Zoo. Our departments are also dedicated to our Seniors in the Department on Aging, those with Disabilities, and Veterans Affairs. Our employees also remain committed to serve the cultural, human, recreational and social needs of the entire community.

Milwaukee County offers a wide variety of interesting jobs for people who want to make a difference in our community. Milwaukee County provides a competitive benefit package and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. If disability related accommodations are needed, please contact 414-278-3936.

We are searching for Changemakers to come and join our team and discover our diverse and versatile community of independent spirits and unique talents, we are redefining the way you think about Milwaukee County!

Closing Date: March 18th, 2025 or upon receipt of the first 50 application submissions

Director of Architecture, Engineering and Environmental Services

Department of Facilities Management

Annually Salary Range: $132,600.00 - $198,889.60

Job Summary: The Director of Architecture, Engineering, and Environmental Services (AE&ES) is responsible for leading a team of professionals who plan, design, and manage the construction of Milwaukee County's public facilities and infrastructure. This role provides strategic direction, technical expertise, and operational oversight to ensure the successful execution of capital projects, major maintenance efforts, and environmental initiatives.

The Director is responsible for aligning the work of the Project Management, Airport Engineering, Architecture, Site Civil, Environmental, and Administrative Units with the County's strategic priorities, including sustainability, equity, fiscal responsibility, and customer service excellence. As the key authority on public works, professional services, and construction contracting, the Director ensures compliance with Federal, State, and County regulations while fostering a collaborative, accountable, and results-driven team culture. Additionally, the Director serves as the primary liaison to the County Board and key stakeholders, advocating for AE&ES priorities and representing the department in public forums.

AE&ES's mission is to deliver projects and technical solutions that exceed client expectations and improve our community. Our vision is to develop a culture that encourages teamwork, personal growth, and fosters client relationships while building sustainable infrastructure for tomorrow's Milwaukee County.

Essential Responsibilities:

• Provide visionary leadership and strategic direction for AE&ES, fostering a culture of teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Set clear goals for staff that align with County-wide objectives, including sustainability, inclusion, and operational efficiency.
• Maintain a safe, collaborative, and innovative work environment for a diverse team of 40+ professionals.
• Report directly to the Director of Facilities Management and serve as a key member of the Facilities Management leadership team.
• Oversee day-to-day operations of AE&ES, ensuring efficiency in project execution, resource allocation, and compliance.
• Develop and manage the annual operational budget, optimizing resources while maintaining high service levels.
• Establish and enforce standards, policies, and procedures for all units within AE&ES.
• Serve as the primary representative for AE&ES with elected officials, County departments, professional associations, and the public.
• Present to the County Board and various committees, effectively communicating technical concepts and project priorities.
• Foster strong customer relationships with County departments and external partners, ensuring AE&ES projects meet client needs.
• Direct all phases of the County's AE&ES led Capital Improvement Program (CIP), overseeing a $300M+ active project portfolio.
• Ensure timely delivery of projects by implementing industry best practices in project management, budgeting, and scheduling.
• Drive innovation in construction quality assurance, inspection processes, and project closeout efficiencies.
• Administer and enforce Federal, State, and County procurement policies for the selection and management of professional services consultants and public works construction contractors.
• Oversee the formal public bidding process for major County construction projects, ensuring compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and County policies.
• Lead contract negotiations, performance monitoring, and accountability measures to ensure projects are delivered efficiently, equitably, and within budget.
• Promote equity, fiscal responsibility, and contractor accountability, ensuring fair and transparent procurement practices.
• Align AE&ES units (Project Management, Engineering, Architecture, Civil, Environmental) to deliver efficient, customer-focused solutions.
• Lead interdepartmental efforts to optimize project workflows and improve stakeholder collaboration.
• Promote professional growth by championing training, mentorship, and career development.
• Foster a diverse and inclusive workplace, ensuring all employees participate in County-supported professional development programs.
• Implement best practices in public sector design, construction, and project management.
• Lead digital transformation efforts and standardization of operating procedures to improve efficiency and transparency.
• Identify and drive necessary organizational changes to enhance performance, customer service, and strategic alignment.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Architectural or another related Technical Degree
• Valid Wisconsin Driver's License at the time of application and must be maintained throughout employment
• At least eight (8) years of experience in Project Management, Design, & Construction Management. Leading teams in the delivery of projects.
• At least one (1) year of Supervisory or Team Management in Planning, Design or Construction Management
• Intermediate knowledge of all related computer and software applications, such as word processing and spreadsheets.
• Basic knowledge of Project management tools such as ERP systems, contract compliance systems

Preferred Qualifications:

• Professional Engineer or Architect license preferred. Relevant advanced degree beneficial.

Key Leadership Competencies:

• Comprehensive knowledge of the modern principles and practices of project management, planning, design and construction management as applied to the construction and maintenance of facility and public works infrastructure.
• Familiarity with theories, principles and practices of civil, structural, environmental, mechanical and electrical engineering and architecture.
• Ability to supervise and perform quality assurance and control on preparation of construction bid and contract documents, in compliance with State Administrative Code and County Ordinances and policies, for a variety of public works projects.
• Exemplary ability to lead, direct and supervise others through change and in the completion of their work.

NOTE: This position is unclassified and not subject to Civil Service Rules and Regulations. This original application is open to qualified candidates authorized to work in the United States. Appointee must establish Wisconsin State residency within six (6) months of appointment and maintain such residency during incumbency. During the application process please upload your updated resume and cover letter outlining experience.

Milwaukee County is committed to fostering an equitable working environment, free from discrimination and harassment, on the basis of any characteristic protected by law. We prohibit any form of discrimination, harassment based on race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, pregnancy related condition, national origin, age, disability, FMLA status, sexual orientation, military status, marital status, or any other category or status that is now or in the future protected by federal, state, and local law. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing, background checks and pre-employment physicals subject to job requirements. If special accommodations are needed, please contact 414-278-3936.

• Milwaukee, WI, USA