Public Works Director

City of Homer Alaska•Kachemak City, AK

2d•$52 - $65

About The Position

The Public Works Director is an active member of the City of Homer’s leadership team, collaboratively advancing City Manager and City Council priorities, engaging with the community, and furthering the department’s mission. The Director manages all department operations, including water distribution and treatment, wastewater collection and treatment, City streets and parks, vehicles and rolling stock, City-owned buildings, grounds and equipment, and the capital improvement program. The department includes roads, water and sewer, parks maintenance, building maintenance, janitorial, and engineering. The Director oversees staffing and scheduling, sets policies and procedures, establishes goals and priorities, and prepares annual departmental and capital project budgets. The position provides strategic leadership for employees and infrastructure assets; plans and oversees short- and long-term operations and maintenance; and coordinates design and construction of approved capital projects. The Director supervises department employees, including hiring, performance reviews, and dismissals under applicable personnel regulations. Responsibilities also include coordinating consultant procurements, project progress and payments, required permits, and grant and loan applications and compliance. Experience administering projects with state and federal funding is especially desired. The Director exercises independent judgment in planning major projects, scheduling personnel, and managing resources. The role manages the Public Works and water and wastewater utility budgets, has maximum budget authority at the department level, and develops policy and procedure at the City-wide level. It involves frequent contact with City personnel, the public, and government officials, as well as attendance at public meetings. The position has low exposure to hazardous conditions and infrequent exposure to adverse weather. Council meeting attendance may be required at the City Manager’s request. This is an overtime-exempt position.

Requirements

At least five years of experience in planning, construction, maintenance, or operations of public facilities, utilities, or transportation systems.
At least three years of managerial experience, including supervising professional-level staff in government or city service.
Extensive knowledge of Public Works operations and federal and state regulations applicable to Public Works facilities.
Strong oral and written communication skills.
Ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with government officials and special interest groups.
Ability to resolve conflict and build consensus among parties with differing opinions and interests.
A strong history of developing and implementing programs or services that improve operational efficiency.
Ability to lead professional staff in delivering services to the community.
Valid driver license required.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Planning, Public Administration, or a related field is desirable.
Experience administering projects with state and federal funding is highly desired.

Responsibilities

Develop, review, update, and implement a strategic vision and plan for department employees and infrastructure assets.
Plan, budget, and oversee employees engaged in short- and long-term operation and maintenance of City infrastructure and facilities.
Provide input to the Capital Improvement Plan and coordinate design and construction of approved capital projects.
Hire, review the performance of, and dismiss department employees subject to Personnel Regulations; supervise and direct all Public Works employees.
Prepare and recommend the annual Public Works operating budget, including budgets for water, sewer, parks, motor pool, road maintenance, cemetery, airport terminal, Port and Harbor maintenance, administration, and capital outlay.
Assist the City Manager and Public Works employees in responding to public inquiries and resolving conflicts or complaints.
Coordinate requests for proposals for consultant design and construction contracts; monitor progress and approve pay requests.
Coordinate acquisition of local, state, and federal environmental and regulatory construction permits.
Assist with grant and loan applications for capital projects and ensure grant and loan conditions are met during design and construction.
Evaluate and recommend maintenance needs and equipment additions or replacements during the budget process on a five-year schedule.
Coordinate with the Finance Director or Department to complete paperwork for purchase orders, work orders, and billing of Public Works activities.
Advise the City Manager on proposed City projects and their effects on the Public Works Department.
Attend City Council work sessions and meetings as required.
Perform other duties as directed by the City Manager.
Manage, create, and operate budgets for Public Works and the water and wastewater utility.
Proactively engage the community and collaboratively advance City Manager and City Council priorities.