Managing Director, Navigation Channel Infrastructure and Dredging Development

Managing Director, Channel Infrastructure Job Summary

The Managing Director of Channel Infrastructure is a senior leadership role responsible for overseeing and coordinating the operations related to port navigation channels, marine regulatory compliance, and real property development. This position plays a critical part in ensuring the safe, efficient, and sustainable movement of maritime commerce through key port channels. The successful candidate will lead strategic initiatives, manage stakeholder relationships, and oversee complex projects to enhance port infrastructure and compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.

Managing Director, Channel Infrastructure Responsibilities

• Act as the primary liaison with federal agencies such as USACE, USCG, and other regulatory bodies, providing strategic counsel to executive management.
• Develop and execute federal agreements to facilitate safe navigation and commerce.
• Lead and manage marine permit applications, ensuring compliance with environmental and regulatory standards.
• Oversee planning and execution of port infrastructure projects, including dredging, maintenance, and construction.
• Manage and develop a team of professionals, including hiring, training, performance evaluations, and motivation.
• Establish and maintain cost accountability systems for channel infrastructure initiatives.
• Oversee the Disposal Area Management Program (DAMP), including dredged material placement operations, scheduling, and budgeting.
• Coordinate with regulatory agencies to obtain and maintain necessary permits for projects and operations.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations, including marine environmental permits from agencies such as EPA and TCEQ.
• Lead the development and review of marine permit applications and modifications.
• Manage dredging and disposal agreements with terminal operators.
• Work closely with stakeholders to monitor channel dredging activities and ensure operational requirements are met.
• Liaise with government officials and stakeholders to represent port interests.
• Oversee project design, planning, and construction of navigation and dredging projects.
• Review and verify project expenses and invoices.
• Perform other duties necessary to support port infrastructure and operational goals.

Managing Director, Channel Infrastructure Position Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business Administration, Environmental/Natural Sciences, Planning, or a related field; Master’s degree preferred.
• 15 years of experience in engineering, environmental management, regulatory affairs, or project management, with prior work on USACE projects.
• Proven supervisory and leadership experience managing diverse teams.
• Professional engineering license (P.E.), project management certification, or relevant board accreditation is preferred.
• Strong knowledge of port infrastructure development, dredging procedures, environmental permitting, and federal/state environmental laws.
• Excellent project and program management skills with the ability to lead complex initiatives.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to engage confidently with regulators, stakeholders, and executive leadership.
• Analytical thinking, technical writing, and public speaking abilities.
• Ability to manage budgets, scheduling, and regulatory compliance effectively.