Executive Manager Transport & Engineering

Shape the future of infrastructure in one of NSW’s most stunning regions!
Lead large-scale road, bridge, drainage, and emergency services across 10,000+ km²

MidCoast Council is committed to enhancing the quality of life for its residents by providing a comprehensive range of essential services tailored to the community's needs. With a focus on maintaining over 3,600 kilometres of roads and 669 bridges, the Council ensures robust infrastructure that supports a thriving community.

By fostering economic development and supporting local businesses, MidCoast Council contributes to the region's growth and prosperity. Join a forward-thinking organisation that values innovation, community engagement, and environmental stewardship, and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the MidCoast region.

The Opportunity

MidCoast Council is seeking a full-time Executive Manager – Transport and Engineering, based in Taree, New South Wales.

Reporting to the Director Infrastructure & Engineering Services, this strategic leadership role oversees a diverse team of over 250 staff delivering critical services in roads, bridges, stormwater, coastal engineering, and emergency management.

You’ll lead the delivery of Council’s Capital Works and Maintenance Programs, implement AI-enabled asset technologies, and oversee emergency preparedness across a vast and diverse geography.

More specifically, your responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Leading the planning, development, and delivery of road, bridge, drainage, and emergency infrastructure.
• Driving innovation in asset lifecycle planning and defect detection through digital technology.
• Championing strategic capital works including the Bridge Renewal Program, road rehabilitation and stormwater upgrades.
• Leading Council’s emergency operations, including the Local Emergency Management Committee.
• Engaging with key stakeholders including Transport for NSW, emergency services, funding bodies, and local communities.
• Coaching and mentoring technical, operational, and engineering teams across multiple disciplines.
• Contributing to whole-of-Council strategic planning and long-term infrastructure resilience.

What you'll bring

You’re a seasoned engineering leader with extensive experience in infrastructure delivery and asset management within local government or a similar complex setting.

With a deep understanding of compliance, emergency frameworks, and capital project delivery, you balance strategic thinking with hands-on leadership. Your collaborative style, political acumen, and problem-solving skills will be essential in driving continuous improvement and securing funding success.

What You’ll Need:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering or related field (essential).
• Significant senior leadership experience in transport/infrastructure delivery.
• Strong asset planning, risk management, and budget oversight expertise.
• Exceptional stakeholder engagement and team leadership capabilities.
• Eligibility for CPEng or chartered engineering status (highly regarded).
• As our ideal candidate, you will bring the personal attributes and leadership style that align with our collaborative and future-focused culture. You’ll demonstrate:
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills that build trust and influence across diverse teams and stakeholders.
• High emotional intelligence and political sensitivity to navigate complex operational and governance environments.
• A proven ability to champion change, drive operational excellence, and embed a culture of continuous improvement.
• The resilience, adaptability and accountability needed to lead confidently in a dynamic and high-pressure service environment.

This is a high-impact leadership role that demands a strategic thinker and influential leader who can balance infrastructure growth, climate resilience, financial sustainability, and community needs. If you are passionate about delivering essential services, driving innovation, and building connected, resilient communities, we would love to hear from you!

Benefits

The successful candidate will be rewarded with an attractive base salary $162,300 - $194,766 plus super and other amazing benefits. 

Additional benefits include:

• $12,000 vehicle allowance and a leaseback vehicle for business and private use.
• 3.5% Civil Liability Allowance.
• Generous leave entitlements, including long service leave after five years.
• Flexible work options, including varied start/finish times and hybrid work arrangements when appropriate
• Above Award parental leave provisions.
• Study assistance and study leave for professional development.
• Ongoing personal and professional development programs.
• State-of-the-art office environment designed for collaboration and innovation.
• Journey to work cover for additional security and peace of mind.
• A stunning work-life balance in the beautiful MidCoast region of New South Wales, offering coastal and country living.

To read the full applicant pack and position description please click here!

If you share our values and have the skills necessary to bring success to this role, then we invite you to apply today!