Description

Are you interested in being in on leading the transformation of a predominantly rural area to accommodate the ancillary growth from the 10^th largest electric vehicle (EV) battery manufacturing facility in the world?  Would you like to be a key player in molding the local impacts from the largest single new economic development project in Kentucky’s history?  Then come to Hardin County in central Kentucky.

Job summary

Hardin County Government is seeking a qualified, motivated professional to serve as the County Engineer for the unincorporated area of Hardin County.  This highly responsible position involves administrative and technical responsibility for all engineering activities associated with County government, oversite of county related utility activities, and review and approval of development plans and requires an extensive knowledge of the principles and practices of civil engineering and the ability to plan and coordinate the work of others.  

The predominantly rural Hardin County has recently become home to BlueOval SK, (BOSK) a joint venture of The Ford Auto Motor Company and SK On, to manufacture cutting-edge electric vehicle (EV) batteries. Construction at the site began in 2021 and has proceeded at an unprecedented rate.  Currently two 9 story manufacturing buildings totaling 8.4 million square feet are under construction and anticipated to be online by 2025. Employment of 5,000 workers is anticipated by 2026. Over $5.8 billion is being invested at the site. By EOY 2026, expected direct plant payroll impact is estimated at $363 million.  As a result of this new facility, population growth is anticipated to increase by approximately 23,000 residents by 2026.  The area surrounding the plant is predominantly rural residential / agricultural.  It will be the role of the County Engineer to respond to this challenge.

Responsibilities and Duties

• Participate/lead visioning and facilitate the implementation of new roadway corridors, land planning and design standards, and supporting infrastructure around BOSK as well as development demands throughout all of unincorporated Hardin County.
• Program manager for the county’s MS4 permit compliance and storm water management program. 
• Review development plans, for compliance with all County requirements, involving roadways, storm drainage, stormwater management, floodplain regulations, MS4 compliance and other construction details as appropriate.  
• Serves as the FEMA Floodplain Coordinator and administers requirements as outlined in the Hardin County Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance.
• In coordination with the road supervisor, review roads for short and long range planning, bridge replacement, drainage, construction of private and commercial developments for the county.
• Work closely with the Planning and Zoning Department on plat reviews, growth management and other interrelated issues.
• Apply for Federal, State, and local grants as necessary and/or required.

Requirements

Education and/or Experience

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a four-year degree in civil engineering, construction management, or a related field.
• Five (5) years of engineering experience
• Any equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Oral and written proficiency

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations

• Registered Professional Engineer license issued by the Commonwealth of Kentucky.