Transportation Chief of Maintenance and Highway Operations; Bureau Chief of Highway Operations

Introduction

The State of Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is seeking an experienced transportation professional to lead the Bureau of Highway Operations as a Bureau Chief of Highway Operations (Transportation Chief of Maintenance and Highway Operations). This position is part of the Department’s executive management team and oversees daily operations and maintenance of all state roadway assets across four districts across the state.

The ideal candidate will be an accomplished transportation executive with a demonstrated record of achievement in highway operations, maintenance, and safety. The successful candidate will bring superior skills in organizational leadership and development, policy formulation, performance management, regulatory compliance, budget and program oversight, and the strategic deployment of equipment, technology, and innovation to improve transportation system outcomes.

Monday – Friday, Full Time, 40 hours per week, First Shift, 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM. Office/On‑site

Location:

Newington, CT.

The Bureau Chief of Highway Operations provides executive leadership to a large and complex organization of more than 1,600 skilled and dedicated professionals representing a broad range of transportation, engineering, maintenance, and operational disciplines. The position ensures the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of Connecticut’s highway system through proactive asset management, regulatory compliance, performance‑driven decision‑making, and continuous improvement of maintenance and operational practices.

The Bureau Chief is accountable for the overall safety, quality, and effectiveness of highway and bridge operations and maintenance programs, including compliance with all applicable state and federal laws, regulations, and funding requirements.

Responsibilities include oversight of operating and capital budgets; modernization of budget, project, and asset management controls; and stewardship of public resources to maximize system performance and lifecycle value. The role also leads statewide emergency response activities, including winter maintenance operations, severe weather events, and incident management, ensuring readiness, coordination, and continuity of operations under rapidly changing conditions. A critical component of this role is the development of organizational capacity through workforce planning, training, succession planning, and the advancement of staff expertise.

The Bureau Chief will champion a strong safety culture, promote operational excellence, and drive the adoption of new technologies, equipment, and data‑driven practices to improve safety, efficiency, and system resilience.

In addition to the above, the Bureau Chief will:

• Lead efforts to position CTDOT to adapt to evolving state and federal transportation priorities, funding programs, regulatory requirements, and industry best practices.
• Play an integral role in advancing safety initiatives for CTDOT employees, contractors, and all users of the state highway system.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of the State’s long‑range transportation plans, capital programs, and performance goals.
• Serve as a senior representative of CTDOT before the Governor’s Office, the Legislature, municipal officials, regional partners, and other stakeholders.
• Represent the Department in public forums and media engagements, clearly communicating policies, programs, and operational impacts.
• Help shape the Department’s long‑term vision, strategies, and programs to support mobility, economic vitality, environmental stewardship, and strong communities throughout Connecticut.

As one of Connecticut’s largest state agencies, the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) employs roughly 3,300 individuals across five bureaus. CTDOT is guided by its mission to improve lives through transportation. Our infrastructure and transit systems are essential to the safety and mobility of Connecticut residents, and our work strengthens both economic and community development. CTDOT is committed to fostering a workforce that reflects the communities it serves, and individuals…