Senior Engineering Manager at John Wayne Airport

The County of Orange is seeking a Senior Engineering Manager to lead a multidisciplinary team that supports the John Wayne Airport’s current and long-range infrastructure vision and needs. This role operates within the Planning and Development Division, which oversees SNA’s $700 million Capital Improvement Program and key initiatives involving airside, landside, terminal, and major utility projects. The Senior Engineering Manager plays an essential part in advancing the Capital Improvement Program, shaping engineering standards, and ensuring safe, reliable, and efficient airport operations.

Key responsibilities include:

• Lead and mentor a team of Airport engineers, architects, and technical staff on complex projects
• Direct engineering studies of the current condition and future development of airport systems, facilities and infrastructure, and ensure appropriate input into the development of the Capital Improvement Program
• Oversee the development of Project Definition Documents and Architectural/Engineering Standards across all airport projects and facilities
• Manage utilization/contracting of A/E consultants and to ensure timely delivery and quality
• Oversee budgeting, scheduling, and operational planning for the engineering team
• Collaborate with internal partners to support airport-wide initiatives
• Oversee the management of engineering-specific capital projects to ensure on-time, on-budget delivery
• Foster open communication with leadership and project stakeholders, Airport Commission, understand stakeholder needs
• Promote safe practices and support innovation

Position Qualifications

• Five (5) or more years as a professional civil engineer, including at least two (2) years of supervisory experience
• Three (3) or more years working on airport-related engineering projects
• Expertise in engineering principles, airport maintenance operations, and applicable codes and regulations
• Skill in preparing technical evaluations, reports, and project documentation
• Ability to navigate multi-agency coordination, stakeholder engagement, and public settings
• State of California Professional Engineer license and ability to meet all airport access requirements is required

Salary & Benefits

The annual salary range for the incoming Senior Engineering Manager is $140,670 - $194,833; placement within this range is dependent upon qualifications and internal parity.