The Position
The City of Albany seeks an innovative, forward-thinking, and strategic leader to serve as its next Public Works Director. This is a rare opportunity to shape the next era of a growing, vibrant community by modernizing critical infrastructure and service delivery, and supporting a culture that empowers our talented Public Works team to deliver exceptional service through creative solutions. The Director supports an enterprise-wide approach to City operations, finding a healthy balance between essential daily operational oversight and a long-term strategy for the City's infrastructure needs. Serving a growing and stable City committed to providing responsive services, the next Public Works Director is a change agent who contributes directly to the vision established by the City Council and City leadership. The Director strengthens the City's reputation for reliable, high-quality public works services for all its residents and businesses through inspiring collaboration and trust, leading department vision, and modeling a commitment to continuous process improvement.
The Public Works Director is a strategic, solutions-oriented leader who embraces a one-city philosophy and aligns departmental goals with Albany’s mission, vision, and values. The Director is energized by the opportunity to drive strategic change and transformation within the department while continuing to provide high-quality services to the community. Through a forward-thinking approach that includes process improvement and innovation, the successful candidate brings a modern perspective and new ideas to public works projects and initiatives. They easily identify trends and problems hindering progress and develop and implement best practices to drive necessary change. With a modern, forward-looking approach, the Director encourages strategic experimentation and continuous improvement to meet changing community needs.
Reporting to the Deputy City Manager, the Public Works Director serves as a key member of the Executive Leadership Team, fostering collaboration and contributing to a high-performance, trust-based organizational culture where innovative solutions can come from any level. The Director represents the department before the City Council, advisory bodies, community groups, external agencies, and the media, ensuring open and transparent communication on major initiatives. The role involves negotiating and partnering with government agencies, developers, contractors, and consultants to advance projects and resolve complex issues. The Director effectively communicates technical and policy matters such as departmental goals, budgets, performance measures, and infrastructure projects to both technical and non-technical audiences.
An approachable and visible leader, the Public Works Director actively fosters a respectful and collaborative workplace culture. Known for empowering employees and attracting and retaining top talent, the Director leads with empathy, humor, and authenticity. They support coaching and professional development to ensure the continued success of public works operations. Committed to exceptional customer service, the successful candidate sets clear expectations, communicates transparently, and balances effective delegation with accountability. The Director actively supports staff, removes barriers to success, and champions a culture of excellence and high-quality service delivery across all aspects of the department’s work.
Qualifications
At least six years of progressively responsible leadership experience in public administration with a focus on public works, transportation, or utilities management is required. At least three years of supervisory and management responsibilities over significant program areas is required. A thorough knowledge of modern principles and practices of public works administration is essential. Prior experience in change management with the ability to leverage best practices in a growing community is ideal.
A bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, environmental services, public administration, business administration, or a closely related field is required. The City may consider an equivalent combination of knowledge, skills, education, and experience to meet minimum qualifications. The successful candidate must possess or be able to obtain a valid Oregon Driver's License and have a driving record that meets the City’s driving standards.
Compensation and Benefits
The hiring range for the Public Works Director is $139,789 - $188,718 and will depend on the qualifications of the successful candidate. The City of Albany provides a generous benefits package. Learn more about the options and employee-based benefits here.
How to Apply
Join a city focused on innovation, alignment, and building a strong foundation for the future. Applications will be accepted electronically by Raftelis at jobs.crelate.com. Applicants complete a brief online form and are prompted to provide a cover letter and resume. The position is open until filled, with a first review of applications beginning December 22, 2025.
