Published date: June 17, 2026
Public Works Director
Job Title: Public Works Director
Department: Public Works FLSA Status: Exempt
Pay Range: $101,200 – $151,800
Reports To: City Manager
Position Summary
The Public Works Director is a key member of the City’s leadership team and is responsible for overseeing the planning, operation, and maintenance of the City’s core infrastructure systems and public assets. This includes the Water, Wastewater, Streets, Stormwater, Electric, Facilities Maintenance, and Fleet/Vehicle Maintenance divisions. The Director is also responsible for managing special projects related to these divisions and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
This position requires a results-oriented leader who can manage multiple projects and departments simultaneously while maintaining a high level of service to the community. The Public Works Director reports directly to the City Manager and works closely with other department heads, contractors, engineers, and the public.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Provides strategic leadership and daily oversight of all public works divisions including water, wastewater, electric, streets, stormwater, facilities maintenance, vehicle maintenance, and related special projects.
- Develops and manages departmental budgets and capital improvement plans; monitors expenditures and prioritizes resource allocation.
- Oversees staff recruitment, training, supervision, and performance evaluation across all divisions.
- Coordinates with engineers, consultants, and contractors on the planning, design, and execution of infrastructure projects.
- Ensures compliance with all federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and safety standards applicable to public works operations.
- Stay informed on water, wastewater, and storm water regulations ensuring the department complies with EPA and TCEQ standards.
- Responds to emergencies involving utility or infrastructure failures and coordinates timely resolution with appropriate staff.
- Leads interdepartmental coordination and collaborates with other City departments to support City-wide initiatives.
- Communicates effectively with residents, business owners, and other stakeholders regarding public works services and projects.
- Prepares and delivers reports and presentations to the City Manager, City Council, and the public as needed.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in public administration, civil engineering, construction management, or a closely related field;
– OR at least seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in public works, utilities, or municipal infrastructure, including a minimum of four (4) years in a supervisory or management role.
- Valid Texas driver’s license with a good driving record.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience managing utility operations in a municipal setting, including electric or water/wastewater systems.
- Experience with capital project management, procurement, and contractor oversight.
- Knowledge of TCEQ, EPA, and other relevant regulatory agencies and standards.
- Certifications in public works, utilities, or project management (e.g., PE, PMP, CPWM) are a plus.
- TCEQ Class B Water and Class B Wastewater or Collection III preferred, or ability to obtain within 1 year.
Key Competencies
- Strong leadership and team-building skills.
- Ability to manage and prioritize multiple complex projects and deadlines.
- Excellent organizational and communication skills.
- Detail-oriented and accountable in operations and reporting.
- Collaborative and adaptable in a team-oriented environment.
- General knowledge in utilizing GIS and SCADA to improve department efficiency.
Working Conditions
- Work is primarily performed in an office setting, with frequent field visits to job sites and public facilities.
- Occasional evening or weekend work may be required during emergencies or special projects.
View full job description: Current Career Opportunities | City of La Grange
To Apply: Submit a completed City of La Grange employment application and resume to Allison Hollek at hr@cityoflg.com.