Public Works Director / County Engineer

The Position

Reporting to the Board of County Commissioners, the Public Works Director / County Engineer is responsible for the overall administration, leadership, planning, coordination, direction, and evaluation of all Public Works functions. The Director provides fiscal responsibility, leadership, and management for the Public Works Department and oversees a broad range of services and programs, including road construction and maintenance, equipment maintenance, civil engineering, solid waste management, land use planning, GIS services, building inspection activities, transportation planning, and infrastructure projects.

Key responsibilities include administering departmental budgets and programs; supervising staff and departmental operations; coordinating with state and federal agencies, county departments, contractors, and the public; and interpreting and applying applicable statutes, regulations, and county policies. The Director exercises considerable judgment and discretion in carrying out these responsibilities and is accountable for the effective leadership, management, administration, and engineering functions of the department, consistent with Board policies and statutory requirements.

Opportunities & Challenges

Future Transportation Projects and Roadway Preservation: Support future transportation projects, advance roadway preservation efforts, and contribute to long-term planning for the County’s transportation infrastructure.

Potential Wind and Solar Development: Support potential wind and solar energy development projects and help address related infrastructure and planning considerations.

Long-Term Infrastructure Planning: Help guide strategic infrastructure planning to meet current needs while preparing for future growth, investment, and community priorities.

Rising Costs and Funding Uncertainty: Maintain high-quality Public Works services while managing increasing construction, maintenance, and operating costs, as well as uncertainty surrounding future funding sources.

Education & Experience

• A bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or a related field.
• Two (2) years of progressively responsible administrative, engineering or related managerial work experience associated with Public Works functions at a level equivalent to Assistant Director of Public Works or County Engineer.
• Must be licensed as a Professional Engineer in Washington State or able to obtain licensure within six (6) months of employment.
• Leadership experience managing people, projects, budgets, public infrastructure, regulatory requirements, and coordination with elected officials or agencies is preferred.
• A valid driver's license is required.

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Compensation & Benefits

• $125,000 - $150,000 DOQ
• The best medical insurance available in the state.
• Dental Insurance.
• Vision Insurance.
• Life Insurance.
• 120 Hours of Vacation.
• 96 Hours of Sick Leave.
• 13 Paid Holidays.
• WA Public Employee Retirement System.