Public Works Director

Lane County is seeking a strategic, thoughtful, and politically astute leader who understands the important role Public Works plays in the success of the County and the quality of life of its communities. The Public Works Director brings a clear vision for the department and recognizes that achieving it requires sound judgment, strong relationships, and the ability to connect the dots across a complex organization.

Comfortable navigating competing priorities and political dynamics, this leader provides candid, well-informed advice while remaining focused on organizational and community needs. They bring an experienced public‑sector perspective and understand both the opportunities and constraints of delivering services in a complex environment.

The Public Works Director provides leadership and direction for Lane County’s Public Works Department, overseeing its people, assets, resources, programs, and services. This position reports to the County Administrator and works closely with the Administrator, the Executive Leadership Team and the Board of County Commissioners. The Director establishes priorities, develops short- and long-range plans, and aligns Public Works with the County’s broader goals and objectives.

As a member of the County’s executive management team, the Director also contributes to countywide policy, strategy, and organizational priorities.

The Director provides vision, high-level administrative leadership, and operational oversight across eight diverse divisions:
Administrative Services, Engineering and Construction, General Services (including Animal Services and Fleet), Land Management, Lane Events Center, Parks, Road and Bridge Maintenance, and Waste Management. This executive-level role requires a person who is driven to connect across varied public works disciplines, breaks down operational silos, and cultivates cross-functional collaboration. Success requires balancing long-term priorities with day-to-day service delivery, empowering managers, developing staff, and relying on the technical expertise of a talented Public Works team.

This position also serves as a careful steward of Public Works’ financial and organizational resources, overseeing the department’s budget, expenditures, and allocation of resources to support effective and cost-conscious service delivery. The Director serves as a key liaison and spokesperson for Public Works, building effective relationships with elected officials, County leadership, other departments, community partners, governmental agencies, and the public.

A people-centered leader, the successful candidate prioritizes knowing and understanding the people doing the work. Visible and accessible, they spend time in each division, engaging with employees and demonstrating genuine interest in their work. The successful candidate is a collaborative and effective partner, building strong relationships across the County and with elected officials, community partners, and other stakeholders. They work effectively across departments and divisions with different cultures and needs, flexing their approach when greater engagement is needed and bringing people together around shared goals.

The Lane County Public Works Department maintains, protects, and enhances the livability and sustainability of the region’s built and natural environments. With a budget of $148.6 million and supported by a talented and dedicated workforce of 387 employees, the department delivers critical public infrastructure and community services across eight operating divisions:

Administrative Services: Delivers department financial planning, budget management, procurement, executive support, recruitment, training, and…