Public Works Director

Under administrative direction from the City Manager and Assistant City Manager, plans, directs, manages, and oversees the activities and operations of the Public Works Department including the urban forestry division, fleet maintenance division, water operations division, streets and collections division, wastewater treatment division, parks and landscape division, electrical and facility maintenance division, and regulatory and environmental compliance division. The incumbent will coordinate assigned activities with other City departments and outside agencies and provide highly responsible and complex administrative support to the City Manager's Office. The ideal candidate will provide strong leadership and operational oversight across Public Works functions. They will ensure continuity of services while maintaining high standards of honesty, safety, efficiency, and responsiveness. This individual will possess a high level of political and organizational acumen and be able to work collaboratively with various City departments to align Public Works operations and infrastructure planning with current and future development initiatives. One of the major challenges facing the department in the near future is water. Patterson is dealing with water quality issues related to Chromium 6 treatment as well as water supply issues related to SGMA and a reduction in groundwater pumping. The City envisions moving to surface water treatment within a decade. The next Director will bring expertise to both of these competing demands. The ideal candidate will directly supervise and support existing Public Works staff, setting clear expectations, promoting accountability, and fostering a positive and productive work environment. This individual will have the ability to maintain positive labor and employee relations and promote teamwork and organizational stability.

Minimum Qualifications:

Education:

Equivalent to a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in civil engineering, public or business administration or a related field. Possession of a Master's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in civil engineering, public or business administration, or a related field is highly desirable.

Experience:

Eight years of increasingly responsible public works type experience including five years of administrative and supervisory responsibility.

License or Certificate:

Possession of an appropriate, valid California driver's license. Possession of certification in water treatment, water distribution, wastewater treatment, wastewater collections, or registration as a certified arborist is highly desirable. Possession of a Certificate of Registration as a professional civil engineer in the State of California is highly desirable. Deadline to

Apply:

Open until filled 1st

Review of Applications:

June 16, 2026

To Apply:

For more information about the position and to apply, please visit our website at https://www.pattersonca.gov/jobs