Deputy Director of Public Works and Utilities

Deputy Director of Public Works and Utilities

Serves as a key leader within the Engineering and Public Works Department, assisting the Director in directing the City’s engineering, public works, and utility operations. Provides leadership for infrastructure planning, capital improvement projects, utility systems, engineering services, and public works operations.

• Direct engineering, public works, and utility operations to support the City’s strategic and operational goals.
• Develop and oversee infrastructure planning and capital improvement projects.
• Lead utility systems management and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Manage project teams, budgets, and contractors to deliver public infrastructure on schedule and within budget.
• Collaborate with City leadership, elected officials, developers, contractors, regulatory agencies, and residents to deliver municipal services efficiently.

Desired qualifications and experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or a closely related field.
• Registration as a Professional Engineer (P.E.) in Wisconsin, or ability to obtain registration within a reasonable timeframe.
• Minimum six years of progressively responsible engineering experience, including supervision, project management, budgeting, and municipal infrastructure.
• Comprehensive knowledge of engineering principles, public works operations, utility systems, capital improvement planning, and construction management.
• Experience managing public infrastructure projects, consultant contracts, and regulatory compliance.
• Excellent leadership, communication, project management, and interpersonal skills.
• Valid Wisconsin driver’s license.

Expected hiring range: $102,500–$117,000 (DOQ). Excellent benefits package and enrollment in the Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS).

La Crosse is a vibrant community of approximately 53,000 residents located along the Mississippi River. The city offers a comprehensive range of municipal services, including public safety, public works, planning and development, parks and recreation, engineering, and utility services. Residents enjoy numerous parks, scenic trails, a lively riverfront, and cultural events. La Crosse is committed to infrastructure improvements, economic development, and enhancing the quality of life for its residents and visitors.