Chief Civil Engineer

This role offers an experienced professional the opportunity to lead complex civil engineering functions within a government department based in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. As Chief Civil Engineer, the incumbent operates at a senior technical level, responsible for supporting and shaping functional planning processes that align engineering priorities and requirements for a defined area. The position demands a broad command of engineering principles, from conceptual design through to construction, operations, and maintenance, with a strong emphasis on delivering service excellence and ensuring that public infrastructure projects meet rigorous standards.

The successful candidate will manage the development and presentation of technical designs for intricate engineering works, ensuring that structural design concepts are professionally sound and clearly disseminated to relevant stakeholders. This includes preparing detailed reports that outline interventions and outcomes, and providing authoritative advice on the principles, procedures, and applications involved in complex engineering projects and programmes. A key part of the role is overseeing contract-related processes, including the preparation and collation of contract documentation and the evaluation of tender applications for substantial engineering works. The Chief Civil Engineer also defines appropriate standards and maintains control over the implementation and outcomes of complex engineering contracts, ensuring compliance and quality throughout.

To be considered, applicants must be registered as Professional Engineers (Pr Eng) with the Engineering Council of South Africa and hold at least five years of relevant experience gained after registration. A valid motor vehicle driver’s licence (Code B or EB) is essential, and the position requires successful completion of an internal assessment as part of the selection process. While no preferred qualifications are specified, the role calls for strong competencies in planning, attention to detail, design, project management, construction, operations and maintenance, communication, interpersonal relationships, service delivery orientation, cognitive ability, direction setting, and coaching and mentoring. The ability to guide less experienced colleagues and foster a collaborative, service-driven culture is therefore integral to the position.

This vacancy is an exciting opportunity for a seasoned civil engineer seeking to apply their technical expertise within the public sector. The work is varied and challenging, involving both strategic planning and hands-on oversight of engineering contracts and designs. The role is based in Durban and is structured according to an occupational-specific dispensation (OSD) grading. Candidates should note that the appointment is subject to the standard government employment conditions, including verification of qualifications and registration. The closing date is displayed separately, and interested applicants are encouraged to review the full application instructions before submitting their candidacy.