Interim Public Works Director

The City of Leavenworth is seeking an experienced professional to serve in a limited-term capacity (not to exceed 12 months) as the Interim Public Works Director. This unique opportunity will provide impactful leadership and operational oversight during a critical transition period. The Interim Public Works Director is eligible to apply for the permanent role when advertised. Reporting to the City Administrator, the Interim Public Works Director will play a key role in ensuring continuity, reliability, and efficiency of essential public services.

This position is responsible for overseeing the maintenance and operations of the City's infrastructure, supporting high-performing teams, and helping to sustain service for the community. The Interim Public Works Director, under the direction of the City Administrator, is responsible for the maintenance and operation of the City’s infrastructure, including parks, streets, stormwater, water, wastewater, engineering, and facilities. The incumbent in this position is responsible for planning, organizing, and directing the activities, work plans, and programs of personnel in the department.

• Document, monitor, and make recommendations for improvement of division policies for the maintenance and operation of City infrastructure. Develop and implement procedures for maintenance, operation, and repair of City infrastructure.
• Measure, monitor, and report performance of all maintenance and operation functions to facilitate and implement improvements in quality and efficiency.
• Perform analyses to support decisions to use in-house versus contracted resources for various maintenance, operations, and repair functions.
• Plan, direct, coordinate, and review work plans for maintenance and operations staff; assign work activities, projects, and programs; review and evaluate work products, methods, and procedures.
• Meet with staff to identify and resolve problems/conflicts for the purpose of ensuring that efforts are effectively directed toward achieving departmental goals.
• Provide or coordinate staff training; work with employees to correct deficiencies; implement discipline procedures.
• Recruit, select, train, and evaluate subordinates’ job performance. Recommend disciplinary actions involving suspension, demotion, and termination and evaluate the performance of personnel.
• Provide technical assistance to staff as needed; provide or oversee staff development in areas of functional specialization.
• Prepare and administer the division’s budget, work program, staff resources, materials, facilities, and time to ensure the efficient and effective operation of the division.
• Troubleshoot and analyze City, contractor, and citizen problems related to public works maintenance issues and determine corrective action. Work with citizens, City staff, contractors, developers, and other public and private entities to resolve/negotiate/mediate issues.
• Manage the maintenance of City building facilities, streets, parks, service facilities, buildings, and right-of-way using City maintenance staff or contractors. Evaluate, monitor, and assure quality of work.
• Coordinate maintenance work performed by partner agencies under Interlocal Agreements.
• Manage the maintenance of the Public Works and general city fleet and power equipment. Determine and implement equipment needs, specifications, and maintenance schedules.
• Provide and coordinate service requests and maintenance for tenants in leased City facilities.
• Administer the department’s safety program; plan, schedule, and conduct monthly safety meetings; develop and implement standard operating procedures; ensure employee adherence to established guidelines.
• Attend staff and community meetings as required,…