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The Principal Engineer I has responsibility for the integrity of approximately 240 miles of County roadway to assure the safety of the traveling public. Responsible for the improvement and/or reconstruction of existing roads and construction of new roads to assure conformance to Federal and State design guidelines and standards. This position supervises and directs the Highway Section and administers and reviews work of consultants in the essential tasks of in the development of roadway designs, construction plans and specifications, bidding, award of contracts, contract administration, construction oversight, and final acceptance of County roadway projects.

Essential Functions

• Supervises, trains, and develops personnel to assure efficient operation of the Highway Section in accordance with Division and County policy.

• Directs and manages the design work of consulting engineers and technical professionals.

• Prepares and approves reports, cost estimates, specifications, and plans for road design and construction projects.

• Assures that all projects are built in compliance to design plans and specifications.

• Assures that roadway designs comply with State and Federal safety standards and guidelines.

• Advises the County Engineer on roadway functionality to ensure a road network that efficiently and safely serves the public who transit Somerset County by all modes of transportation.

• Plans and budgets for roadway projects. Manages and makes decisions related to construction and professional service contract costs.

• Evaluates roadway conditions.

• Prepares annual budgets for road improvement/rehabilitation projects.

• Administers infrastructure grants from State and Federal funding sources.

• Performs project management tasks including conceptualizing, budgets, schedules, outreach, coordination, communications, evaluations, prioritizing, and problem resolution from project concept through completion of construction.

• Communicates with the public regarding projects and roadway concerns and, prepares for and attends public hearing and information meetings to explain status of projects and solicit comments.

• Communicates overall section functioning and needs to the Assistant County Engineer on a regular basis in order to maintain optimal performance of the bridge section.

• Communicates with outside agencies in facilitating the advancement of the project including NJDOT, NJTPA, FHWA, NJDEP, Utility Companies, other County officials, municipal officials, local planning and historic groups, Environmental groups, local businesses, and property owners.

• Schedules and coordinates projects with other sections of the Engineering Division, contractors, and employees.

• Responds to and resolves issues related to traffic maintenance, materials, engineering, and site issues during construction.

• Prepares and supervises preparation of specifications and contract documents to ensure compliance with the Local Public Contracts Law.

• Acts as County Engineer's liaison to Millstone and Somerville Borough for share services work.

• Perform other duties as assigned by the Director of Public Works.

Essential Qualifications

The position requires a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering (BSCE) degree from an accredited college with supplementary courses in highway engineering and a Professional Engineer’s License issued by the New Jersey State Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors.

Ten years of supervisory engineering experience in the design, inspection and construction of roads.

Must possess a comprehensive knowledge of current highway engineering practices, the AASHTO Policy of Geometric Designs of Highways and Streets and the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices. Knowledge of State DOT and FHWA roadway guidelines and specifications.

A working knowledge of the following software is necessary: Microsoft Office, AutoCAD Civil 3D.

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills and the ability to make sound and accurate judgments, while maintaining an effective working relationship with the public, various government agencies, and municipal officials.

In order to effectively interact with the concerns of local citizens, municipal officials, various State and Federal agencies, the media, and conduct public hearings on proposed roadway projects, the incumbent must possess excellent oral and written communications skills, with special emphasis on conveying complex technical issues to a non-technical audience.