Chief Engineer

Job No: SSC1556
Location: Sutherland Shire

  • 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. 

Join Sutherland Shire Council

At Sutherland Shire Council, we are more than just a workplace; we are a community committed to excellence and innovation. Our team is passionate about delivering exceptional services and projects that enhance the quality of life for our residents. We believe in fostering a supportive environment where creativity and collaboration thrive, and we are excited to welcome new talent who share our vision.

As a leading council, we are dedicated to continuous improvement and sustainability. We are on the lookout for individuals who are ready to make an impact and take on challenges that contribute to a brighter future for our community.

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. 

If you are passionate about engineering, community service, and leadership, we want to hear from you! Join us in our mission to improve the lives of those who reside in the Sutherland Shire.

Join our Team and Grow with Us!

If you are ready to take on a challenging and rewarding role that makes a real difference in the community, apply now to join our team at Sutherland Shire Council!

  • Apply by responding to our online application questions and submitting your resume and cover letter outlining why we are a great fit!
  • Get your application in by 11.59pm: Friday 7th November 2025
  • Interview date: Interviews will be facilitated on Tuesday 18 November 2025
  • Package: Competitive salary will be negotiated with the successful candidate.
  • Hours of work: Permanent Full Time
  • To benefit your wellbeing you will have access to fitness passport, employee assistance program, annual flu shots, health and wellbeing programme and novated lease options.

Suitable candidates are subject to pre-employment screening which includes Reference Checks, Work Rights Verification, Identity and Functional/Medical History Checks (including Covid-19 Vaccination), and will also include a Criminal History, Qualification and Working with Children Check. Employment is subject to clearance of all these checks.

Reach out to Michelle Whitehurst - Director Infrastructure via mwhitehurst@ssc.nsw.gov.au for any job specific enquiries.
Breanna Rivers, Talent Acquisition Business Partner brivers@ssc.nsw.gov.au can assist with any recruitment related enquiries.

Click on the links to check out the Candidate Information Pack and  Position Description

Council is a Child Safe Organisation and is committed to ensuring the NSW Government’s Child Safe Standards are incorporated in our procedures, practices, programs, and events.

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.