Director of Public Works/City Engineer

City of Montclair•Montclair, CA

About The Position

Under administrative direction, the Director of Public Works/City Engineer plans, directs, and coordinates municipal engineering and maintenance services and administers programs addressing the City’s primary service areas. The role uses independent judgment and initiative to establish efficient and effective departmental operations consistent with City Council policies and City Manager guidelines. As a member of the City’s management team, the position participates in addressing issues of concern to the City and performs related work as assigned. The Director oversees public works services and projects, including infrastructure planning, development review, construction, maintenance, and related departmental programs. The position advises City officials, staff, and the public; represents the Department in community and agency relations; and leads departmental planning, budgeting, staffing, and operations.

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or a related field.
  • Five years of progressively responsible administrative experience in municipal engineering services, including public works planning, engineering, traffic/transportation systems, maintenance and construction, utilities, and public works programs.
  • Five years of supervisory experience at the mid-management level or above.
  • Valid California Driver License and proof of insurability.
  • Valid Professional Civil Engineer License from the State of California in good standing.
  • Knowledge of public works planning, engineering, maintenance, and construction; local-government laws and regulations; land use and development; supervision and disciplinary processes; data analysis; municipal budgeting; public-agency data systems; employee relations; and Council/staff and public/staff relations.
  • Ability to plan and coordinate Department activities, prepare and present complex reports, manage a balanced budget, communicate effectively, resolve conflicts, build effective working relationships, analyze administrative situations, develop comprehensive service plans, supervise employees, interpret regulations and financial reports, represent the Department, make operational and personnel decisions, and respond effectively to emergencies.

Nice To Haves

  • Master’s degree in civil engineering, public administration, or a related field is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

  • Plan, direct, and coordinate Department services and ensure compliance with applicable federal and state laws, ordinances, rules, and regulations.
  • Establish policies and procedures for Department activities and ensure they are administered equitably.
  • Prepare and direct administration of the Department budget.
  • Prepare and present complex public works project reports in a clear, non-technical manner.
  • Guide development of comprehensive plans addressing future Department service needs, including City infrastructure construction and repair.
  • Advise and assist the City Council, City Manager, City personnel, and the public on public works issues and activities.
  • Plan, organize, and assign work; establish work methods and standards.
  • Conduct or direct staff training and development; review and evaluate employee performance and take disciplinary action as necessary.
  • Represent the Public Works Department, or delegate that authority, in dealings with the community, advisory committees, government agencies, other public works agencies, and professional organizations.
  • Schedule public hearings and lead discussions on proposed public works projects.
  • Collaborate with coworkers at all organizational levels in a customer service-oriented manner and perform duties consistent with the City’s mission and values.
  • Participate in the City’s Development Review Committee and develop conditions of approval for development projects.
  • Review and approve subdivision maps.
  • Review, approve, and inspect development plans and construction related to public works improvements.
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