Harris County Engineering Department

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Harris County Engineering Department

Official page of the Office of the County Engineer

Office of the County Engineer is a regional leader in providing wholly integrated professional services to a broad range of clients. The vision of the Engineering Department is to enhance environments and create new buildings that will elevate the quality of life for the ever-growing community of Harris County.

09/15/2026

𝗘𝗻𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗲𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗼𝗱𝗮𝘆. 𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗛𝗮𝗿𝗿𝗶𝘀 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁𝘆'𝘀 𝗳𝘂𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲.

On World Engineers Day, we recognize the engineers whose expertise turns community needs into infrastructure that improves safety, mobility, resilience, and quality of life across Harris County.

The Office of the County Engineer is currently advancing 836 active capital projects representing an estimated $4.3 billion in total portfolio value. That includes 563 projects in study and design, 124 in construction, 111 in scoping, and 38 in the bidding phase.

Behind every project are engineers providing the technical expertise, planning, design, and oversight needed to move critical infrastructure from an idea to a completed investment serving our communities.

Today, we celebrate OCE engineers and engineering professionals for the work they do every day to help design, build, and strengthen Harris County.

🔗 Learn more about OCE projects and initiatives: https://oce.harriscountytx.gov/

09/12/2026

More than $655 million in active capital improvement projects is helping shape the future of Precinct 4.

At Building 4 the Future, the Office of the County Engineer shared a snapshot of the work underway across Precinct 4, including 102 active capital improvement projects advancing through scoping, study and design, bidding, and construction, with 13 projects currently under construction.

Through technical expertise, planning, and project delivery, OCE is helping move these investments from concept to completion and deliver infrastructure that meets the needs of Harris County residents.

Thank you to the Office of Commissioner Lesley Briones, Precinct 4, and our industry and community partners for their continued collaboration.

Explore current public contracting opportunities: Portal — Open Opportunities - https://harriscountytx.bonfirehub.com/portal/?tab=openOpportunities

09/05/2026

Happy Labor Day from the Office of the County Engineer!

We honor the engineers, inspectors, and field crews who build and maintain our county's infrastructure. Our offices will be closed Monday, September 7, and will reopen Tuesday, September 8.

08/19/2026

Septic System Scam Awareness | Verify Before You Hire

Planning to install or repair a septic system? Before hiring a contractor, take the time to verify their credentials and confirm that the required permits are in place.

For aerobic septic systems, also known as Aerobic On-Site Sewage Facilities, installers must hold the appropriate Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) On-Site Sewage Facility license.

Be cautious of contractors who cannot provide proof of licensing or documentation, request cash-only payments, or offer pricing that seems too good to be true. An improperly installed or incorrectly sized septic system can lead to costly repairs or replacement.

Protect your property and your investment. Verify before you hire.

Learn more about septic system requirements, licensed installers, and permitting resources through the Harris County Office of the County Engineer.

08/17/2026

On Friday, August 14, 2026, the Harris County Office of the County Engineer (OCE), under the leadership of County Engineer and Executive Director Milton Rahman, PhD, P.E.,CFM, ENV SP, proudly celebrated the groundbreaking of the new Harris County Sheriff's Office Swiftwater Training Facility.

Dr. Rahman joined Sheriff Ed Gonzalez, Precinct 2 Commissioner Adrian Garcia, Chief Operating Officer Samuel Pena, the OCE project team, HCSO, and project partners to mark this important milestone.

Delivered by OCE in partnership with HCSO, the $9.1 million facility will provide realistic, hands-on swiftwater rescue training and increase annual training capacity from approximately 100 to as many as 1,600 first responders.

OCE also recognizes our project partners P-GAL, represented by Ruben Martinez, and Kitchell Corporation, represented by Beverly Girgis, for their collaboration and commitment to this project.

This is what engineering for Harris County is about: building today for the challenges of tomorrow, strengthening resiliency, and helping protect the communities and first responders we serve.

08/12/2026

Planning a new development or significant redevelopment project in unincorporated Harris County?

Before you break ground, determine whether your project requires a Stormwater Quality Management Plan (SWQMP).

Whether a Stormwater Quality permit is required depends on several factors, including:

✔️ The size of your development
✔️ Whether it's a new development or redevelopment project
✔️ The amount of new impervious surface, such as concrete or pavement
✔️ Whether the property contains existing development
✔️ Whether the project connects to an existing storm sewer system

For example, many new developments that are part of a common plan of development covering five acres or more require a Stormwater Quality permit. Certain redevelopment projects larger than five acres that increase impervious surfaces by more than one acre may also require one. Some developments connected to existing storm sewer systems may qualify for an exemption, depending on the project and other applicable criteria.

Because every project is unique, reviewing the Stormwater Quality Management Plan requirements before submitting your plans can help prevent delays and keep your project moving forward.

Visit the Harris County Office of the County Engineer website to learn more about Stormwater Quality Management Plan requirements.
https://oce.harriscountytx.gov/

Build smart. Protect our waterways. Protect human health and life in our community.

08/10/2026

Join Our Team | OCE is Hiring
The Harris County Office of the County Engineer (OCE) is seeking talented professionals who are committed to public service and making a meaningful impact in our community.

At OCE, our work helps support the infrastructure, services, and communities that keep Harris County moving forward.

Explore our current career opportunities and discover how you can contribute your skills and experience to serving Harris County.

Build your career. Make an impact. Serve Harris County.

View current opportunities and apply today:
https://bit.ly/3StrVwx

08/04/2026

As students head back to the classroom, our roads become busier with school buses, parents, bicyclists, and children walking to and from school.

The Harris County Office of the County Engineer helps maintain school flashing beacons, traffic signals, and transportation infrastructure that support safer travel throughout our communities—but road safety starts with all of us.

-Slow down in school zones.
-Watch for children at crosswalks.
-Put your phone away and stay alert.
-Obey school zone flashing lights and posted speed limits.

A few extra seconds can make all the difference. Together, we can help every student arrive safely this school year.

Slow Down. Share the Road. Protect Our Students.

07/31/2026

Today, we say farewell to an exceptional leader, mentor, and advocate, Dr. Emma Santa Maria.

Throughout her time with the Harris County Office of the County Engineer, Dr. Santa Maria's leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment to public service have inspired those around her and helped shape our organization for the better. Her dedication to excellence, innovation, and serving our community has left a lasting impact on our team and the Harris County residents we serve.

While we will certainly miss her leadership and guidance, we are excited to see all that she accomplishes in this next chapter. On behalf of the entire OCE family, thank you, Dr. Santa Maria, for your service, mentorship, and the difference you've made in the lives of so many.

We wish you continued success, happiness, and fulfillment in all that lies ahead. Once part of the OCE family, always part of the OCE family.

Thank you, Dr. Santa Maria, and best of luck on your new journey!

07/30/2026

Today, we celebrate the bright minds shaping tomorrow's workforce!

Happy National Intern Day to all of our Office of the County Engineer interns. Every career starts with an opportunity to learn, grow, and make an impact, and internships are often the first step in that journey.

Our interns play an important role in supporting Harris County by contributing to projects that help improve public services, strengthen our communities, and enhance the quality of life for our residents. Their fresh ideas, hard work, and commitment help move our mission forward every day.

Thank you to our interns for your dedication, enthusiasm, and the positive impact you've made throughout the summer. We are proud to have been part of your professional journey and look forward to seeing all that you accomplish in the future.

Here's to the next generation of leaders and to everyone who once started as an intern!

Address

1111 Fannin
Houston, TX
77002

Telephone

+17132743600

Website

https://oce.harriscountytx.gov/

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