Description

The Public Works Director provides overall leadership, management, and strategic direction for the Public Works Department, ensuring the safe, reliable, and compliant delivery of public infrastructure and services. The position is responsible for department-wide oversight of water, wastewater, streets and drainage, traffic control, environmental compliance, fleet and equipment facilities, and related public works functions. The Director establishes priorities, policies, and performance expectations consistent with City goals and regulatory requirements, while maintaining appropriate awareness of day-to-day operations to support staff and ensure accountability. The position serves as a member of the City’s executive leadership team and advises the City Manager on public works operations, capital planning, and resource allocation. This position reports to the Assistant City Manager over Public works and performs other duties as assigned by the City Manager. 

Requirements

• Plans, integrates, and evaluates the work of the Public Works Department; develops, implements, and monitors long-term plans, goals, and objectives aligned with the City’s mission, strategic priorities, and City Council direction.
• Assists with the preparation of the annual City budget and oversees the administration of the Public Works Department’s approved budgets, ensuring fiscal accountability and compliance with City policies.
• Directs, evaluates, and supports the performance of assigned staff; establishes performance expectations and professional development goals; and provides coaching and training to support continuous improvement and employee development.
• Provides leadership to develop and retain a highly competent, customer service–oriented workforce through effective selection, compensation recommendations, training, and management practices consistent with the City’s values.
• Integrates and directs the efforts of supervisors and staff engaged in the maintenance, repair, and operation of the City’s public works infrastructure, including water distribution, wastewater collection, streets, and drainage systems.
• Oversees assigned public service programs within the Public Works Department, including the City’s Seniors Taking a Ride (STAR) Bus Program, ensuring safe, effective, and compliant operation of the program.
• Advises the City Council, City Manager, and other stakeholders on public works and utilities matters; assembles and coordinates resources to address complex operational, programmatic, and service delivery challenges.
• Directs subordinate supervisors and employees, including making recommendations related to hiring, discipline, performance evaluation, and work assignments to ensure effective departmental operations.
• Collaborates with other department leaders and oversees the use of external service providers, including engineers, contractors, consultants, and utilities service partners, to support public works operations and capital projects.
• Administers budgetary recommendations for the Public Works Department and monitors progress toward fiscal objectives, adjusting plans as necessary to ensure responsible stewardship of resources.
• Monitors developments related to public works and utilities, evaluates their impact on City operations, and implements improvements to policies, procedures, and practices as appropriate.
• Represents the City in negotiations and coordination efforts with regulatory agencies, utilities, governmental entities, community groups, and other external stakeholders on matters related to public works and public utilities.
• Attends meetings within and outside the City, and is available to work extended hours or respond during emergency situations as required.
• Serves on the City’s Emergency Management team and supports emergency preparedness and response activities.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.