Public Works Director

Position Overview

The Public Works Director serves as the executive leader of the City’s Public Works Department, responsible for the strategic leadership and oversight of all public infrastructure and related services. This includes the design, construction, maintenance, and improvement of streets, water, sewer, wastewater treatment, sanitation, as well as directing code enforcement, engineering, airport and central shop operations. The Director has both the technical understanding of these services but is a people-focused leader who fosters collaboration, accountability, and exceptional public service.

This position performs duties as prescribed in the City of Sterling Charter and City Code, operating at the discretion of the City Manager and in accordance with the City’s Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual.

Primary Purpose

To ensure that the City’s public works systems and infrastructure are safe, reliable, and sustainable, while leading a professional team that is committed to operational excellence, fiscal responsibility, and responsive service to the community.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

Under the general policy direction of the City Manager, the Public Works Director:

Strategic Leadership & Vision

• Develops and executes the department’s mission, vision, goals, and objectives in alignment with the City’s strategic priorities.
• Formulates policy recommendations, procedures, work rules, and performance standards that ensure efficiency, compliance, and quality service delivery.
• Balances infrastructure needs with fiscal responsibility, long-term planning, and public expectations.

Operational Oversight

• Directs short- and long-range planning for all assigned divisions, including Code Enforcement, Streets and Sanitation, Water, Sewer, Wastewater Treatment, and Central Shop; directly supervises Engineering Operations and Administration.
• Oversees design, construction, and maintenance programs, ensuring compliance with applicable building codes, environmental standards, and safety regulations.
• Administers enforcement of the International Building Codes (IBC) and related laws, reviewing plans and directing code enforcement activities through assigned staff. 

Financial Stewardship

• Develops, presents, and manages the department budget; monitors expenditures to ensure alignment with approved allocations and goals.
• Oversees procurement processes, contract administration, and capital improvement programs.

People & Culture Leadership

• Provides managerial leadership by hiring, developing, mentoring, and evaluating staff; sets clear expectations and promotes accountability, respect, and professionalism.
• Resolves employee relations matters, addresses grievances, and maintains a positive, inclusive work environment.
• Ensures all staff are properly trained, equipped, and supported in their roles.

Community & Council Engagement

• Serves as a key liaison with the City Council, community organizations, regulatory agencies, and the public.
• Represents the City and department in public meetings, professional associations, and intergovernmental collaborations.
• Responds to community concerns with transparency, empathy, and a focus on problem resolution.

Emergency & Special Operations

• Responds to emergencies and major incidents as required, including 24-hour on-call availability.
• Directs major projects, negotiates complex issues, and participates on special City task forces.

Core Competencies

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