Under administrative direction, oversees, plans, organizes, and directs all functions and activities of the Public Works Department, including utilities, civil engineering, maintenance, and capital improvement projects; formulates departmental policies, goals, and directives; coordinates assigned activities with other City departments, officials, outside agencies, and the public; fosters cooperative working relationships among City departments and with intergovernmental and regulatory agencies, and various public and private groups; provides highly responsible and complex professional assistance to the City Manager in areas of expertise; and performs related work as required. Receives administrative direction from the City Manager. Exercises direct supervision over supervisory, professional, technical, and administrative support staff through subordinate levels of supervision.
Duties and responsibilities include: Assumes full management responsibility for all Public Works Department programs, services, and activities, including water (treatment/distribution), engineering, street/tree/park maintenance, and planning and completion of capital improvement projects.
Project Management Expertise: The ideal candidate should have a strong background in project management, particularly in capital improvement projects. The ideal candidate should possess extensive knowledge of the California Public Works Code for bidding projects and have a firm understanding of moving a project along from design through construction. They should be skilled at developing project plans, setting realistic timelines, and effectively managing resources to ensure projects are completed on time and within budget. Experience with working in an agency with a Water Utility while not required would be a bonus.
THE IDEAL CANDIDATE
We are seeking a dynamic and proactive Public Works Director who excels in overseeing comprehensive municipal projects from design to completion. The ideal candidate will possess a robust Capital Improvement Project (CIP) manager mindset, including familiarity with the California Public Work Contract Code, with a proven track record of executing projects expeditiously and efficiently. This hands-on leader will not only spearhead projects but also inspire and guide our teams through complex challenges. They will not shy away from addressing challenging situations. They should be a proactive problem-solver with excellent leadership skills and a commitment to delivering high-quality public works services to our community.
• Hands-On Approach: The candidate should be a hands-on leader who is not afraid to roll up their sleeves and actively participate in the day-to-day operations of the public works department. They should be comfortable working alongside their team, leading by example, and providing guidance and support when needed.
• Results-Oriented: The ideal candidate should have a proven ability to start and finish projects as quickly as possible without compromising quality. They should possess a strong sense of urgency and be able to motivate their team to meet deadlines and achieve desired outcomes.
• Problem-Solving Skills: The candidate should be adept at addressing difficult situations and finding innovative solutions to complex problems. They should have a strategic mindset and be able to think critically to overcome obstacles and ensure the smooth execution of projects.
• Strong Communication Skills: The candidate should possess excellent communication skills, both verbal and written. They should be able to effectively communicate with internal stakeholders, external partners, and the public to ensure transparency and maintain positive relationships.
• Leadership Abilities: The ideal candidate should have a proven track record of successful leadership, demonstrating the ability to inspire and motivate a diverse team. They should be able to foster a collaborative and inclusive work environment, encouraging teamwork and professional growth among staff members.
• Knowledge of Public Works: The candidate should have a comprehensive understanding of public works operations, including infrastructure maintenance, construction, and repair. They should be familiar with relevant regulations, codes, and standards, and stay updated on industry best practices.
• Budgeting and Financial Management: The candidate should have experience in budgeting and financial management, ensuring that projects are executed within allocated resources. They should be skilled at analyzing financial data, identifying cost-saving opportunities, and making informed decisions to optimize project outcomes.
• Commitment to Safety: The candidate should prioritize safety in all aspects of public works operations. They should have a strong understanding of safety protocols and regulations and be dedicated to creating a safe work environment for employees and the public.
• Professionalism and Integrity: The ideal candidate should demonstrate the highest level of professionalism and integrity in their work. They should be ethical, transparent, and accountable for their actions, fostering trust and credibility within the organization and the community.
THE COMMUNITY
Incorporated in 1964 and located at the base of the Palos Verdes Peninsula in the South Bay of Los Angeles County, the City of Lomita is a close-knit and friendly community made up of young families and small businesses. Lomita is just a short 15-minute drive to the beach in an area known for its wonderful coastal California climate and convenient location in the South Bay. Lomita boasts a small-town feel that is unique within the Los Angeles metropolitan region. With a diverse and inclusive population of just over 20,000, Lomita thrives on creating a welcoming home for residents from all backgrounds. The mission of the City of Lomita is to provide a healthy, safe, and friendly small-town community where everyone can successfully live, work, and play.
For more details about this opportunity, please visit: https://koffassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/FINAL-Lomita-PWD-002.pdf.
To be considered, please submit a resume, cover letter, and five work-related references (who will not be contacted in the early stages of the recruitment) to: https://koffassociates.com/lomita-public-works-director/. Resumes should reflect years and months of positions held, as well as size of past organization(s).
Chelsea Freeman
(510) 570-3844
chelsea_freeman@ajg.com
Website: https://koffassociates.com/
Seniority level
Director
Employment type
Full-time
Job function
Management and Engineering
Industries
Government Administration and Utilities Administration
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