Chief Engineer - EOI

Job No: SSC1555
Location: Sutherland Shire

We have an opportunity for a strong leader to act in the position of Chief Engineer for a period of up to 3 months whilst permanent recruitment is undertaken. 

  • Lead and inspire a significant group of dedicated and experienced professionals to strategically plan for and design, deliver and maintain Council's Asset portfolio. 
  • Drive innovative infrastructure projects that make a real difference in the community.
  • Leverage your expertise to create a customer-centric organisational culture.
  • Be responsible for managing budgets, resources, and driving business unit outcomes through effective leadership and decision-making. 

Position Overview

We are seeking a Chief Engineer to take the helm of our Asset Strategy & Delivery Division. In this senior strategic leadership role, you will guide the design, delivery, and maintenance of our diverse assets portfolio, encompassing design, delivery, and maintenance. You will be at the forefront of delivering major infrastructure projects, ensuring that they are executed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards. Your leadership will be pivotal in creating a strong organisational culture that is both customer-centric and focused on community outcomes.

As Chief Engineer, you will collaborate with various stakeholders, navigate the political landscape, and oversee the budget and resources for your business unit. Your strategic thinking and problem-solving skills will be essential in driving operational excellence and fostering a culture of safety and accountability.

Your Role as a Leader

We are looking for an enthusiastic and experienced leader who can:

  • Build, mentor, and motivate a diverse team of professionals to achieve organisational goals.
  • Drive customer-focused service delivery practises and cultivate a positive workplace culture.
  • Ensure compliance with safety regulations while promoting an environment of well-being.
  • Lead the development of contemporary strategies that align with our Community Strategic Plan.

Your expertise in asset management, infrastructure planning, and project delivery will be crucial as you take on this challenging and rewarding role. You will have the chance to make meaningful contributions for Council and our community.

What We’re Looking For

The ideal candidate will possess a unique blend of technical expertise, leadership acumen, and strategic vision. You will have a strong background in engineering and infrastructure management, coupled with the ability to inspire and motivate teams to reach their full potential.

  • Degree qualifications in engineering or a related discipline.
  • Professional standing within the engineering industry, with extensive project management experience.
  • Proven leadership skills in multi-disciplinary team environments.
  • Excellent strategic, analytical, and lateral thinking capabilities.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and experience in stakeholder engagement.
  • Ability to interpret legislation and manage budgets effectively.

If you are driven by challenges and possess a forward-thinking mindset, you will thrive in our collaborative environment where your contributions are valued and recognised. 

The expression of interest will be open from now and will close on 24 October 2025.

Please submit your expression of interest outlining your qualifications, skills, and experience relevant to the role and highlight why you’re interested in this opportunity.

Click on the link to check out the Position Description

Reach out to Michelle Whitehurst for any job specific enquiries.

Before submitting your application, please consult your People Leader to confirm that any secondment or acting opportunity can be accommodated within your team.

Apply Now

Privacy Acknowledgment

Sutherland Shire Council (Council) adheres to The Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act 1998 NSW when collecting, using and storing your personal information, and is committed to ensuring the privacy of your personal information. Council is collecting your personal information as part of the recruitment and selection process and advises your application will be hosted by an external service provider under contract by Council. By proceeding with your application, you acknowledge your personal information will be hosted by Councils’ external service provider until such time as you notify otherwise.


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About Sutherland Shire Council

Sutherland Shire is a unique area in greater Sydney. Boasting iconic beaches, stunning coastline, vibrant town centers, and incredible national parks. All just 26 km from the CBD. As one of the largest Councils in NSW, we're home to a growing and connected community of more than 230,000 people.

Watch the video to hear from our people about the wide range of projects we're delivering for our community.

It's a great time to join our team and do work that matters.