SUMMARY:
The Director of the Public Works Department functions as an agent of the Board of County Commissioners in overseeing and coordinating the administration of the Public Works Department. The Director is appointed by and serves at the pleasure of the majority of the Board of Commissioners.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Manages and supports the activities of multiple divisions and projects of the Public Works Department in the continues effort towards the achievement of the departmental objectives and the objectives of the County as a whole.
Responsible for monitoring and controlling the performance of the department in conformance with objectives, plans, schedules, and budgets.
Provides engaging leadership and supervision of staff with a focus on personal and professional growth and development of the department.
Manages the development of fiscally responsible operating budgets to be annually reviewed and approved by the Board of Commissioners.
Fiscal astuteness and ability to evaluate and monitor budget with depth of understanding and ability to communicate with stakeholders
Directs the administration of project development, project budget status, and monitors construction contracts or County labor.
Engage the department in continuous improvement efforts in performance and efficiencies using methodologies such as Lean to reduce waste and improve quality. Evaluates departmental performance and makes changes or adjustments to ensure the highest level of effectiveness, efficiency, and customer service.
Represents Skagit County in intergovernmental and community relationships dealing with public works matters.
Provides advice to and coordinates with officials and the public on matters of a wide field of Public Works subjects.
Regularly attends meetings of the Board of County Commissioners and other agencies to engage in the furtherance of the department’s goals and objectives.
Assists in the development, revision, and administration of ordinances, rules, and procedures affecting the County’s transportation structure.
Evaluates departmental organization and staffing levels on a continuous basis and recommends changes when warranted.
Intentionally engage with community and stakeholders with the intent to listen and understand concerns and ability to effectively communicate across a broad spectrum of people.
Ability to maintain professional communication during conflict and foster the process of developing mutually agreeable resolutions while maintain positive relationships.
Proactively engages politically with legislation and important agencies and local government to further the mission and goals of the department.
Develops and fosters a high level of intergovernmental and interdepartmental communication and cooperation

SUPERVISORY:
This position has direct supervisory responsibilities.

OTHER JOB FUNCTIONS:
Attends a variety of public meetings.

Directs and evaluates the plan and scope of outside consulting or other engineering studies.

Is involved in non-departmental community activities.

Performs related duties as assigned. Related duties as required are duties that may not be specifically listed in the Position Description but are within the general occupational series and responsibility level typically associated with the employee’s classification of work.

QUALIFICATIONS:
Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills and abilities is qualifying. A typical path to obtain the required qualifications would be:

• A degree in Public Administration, Civil Engineering, or a related field is desired, however, a strong emphasis will be placed on experience, abilities, and personal attributes.
• A minimum of five (5) years in director level responsibilities is required, or a minimum of ten (10) years in progressive management experience in a related field.
• Prospective candidates should have a stable and upwardly progressive career in comparable government or related private sector environments.
• The candidate should have demonstrated skills in public works administration, project development and management, management of personnel, budgeting and control of expenditures, public/media relations, and customer service.

REQUIRES KNOWLEDGE OF:
• The field of assignment sufficient to perform thoroughly and accurately the full scope of responsibility as illustrated by example in this job description.
• Organizational and community dynamics, principles and practices of leadership, management, and supervision.
• Practices, principles, and procedures for the areas of assignment
• Applicable local, state, and federal laws, rules, regulations, policies, and procedures related to areas of assignment.
• Fiscal management including budget preparation, grant administration, service and intergovernmental contract negotiation and administration, expenditure control, and record keeping.
• Computer operation and a variety of software including word processing, spreadsheet, database, and other applications specific to the area of assignment.
• Safety and security hazards, precautions, standards, policies, and procedures pertinent to the area of assignment.

REQUIRES THE ABILITY TO:
• Maintain a belief and philosophy around the importance of preservation and restoration of Skagit County’s unique ecosystems and natural resources and a proactive approach in preparing for climate change and conservation.
• Interest in an environmental emphasis with approach to all Public Works divisions and projects.
• Display engaging, positive, and creative leadership and a professional and approachable demeanor.
• Strong ability to create and maintain positive and collaborative relationships with the community, key leaders, coworkers, and employees.
• Skillfully and thoughtfully balance achieving department goals while also supporting a positive workplace culture that displays respect, kindness, and a collective strong work ethic and efficacy.
• Strong public works and managerial experience and strong, effective leadership skills.
• Politically astute, with excellent verbal and written communications skills.
• Able to build a strong management team and willing to delegate to the team. Committed to holding staff accountable for tasks and responsibilities.
• An open style that encourages empowerment of staff and citizens in decision making processes. Good communication skills in representing Skagit County to other agencies and the public.
• An effective decision-maker, who makes short- and long-range plans, programs, and goals.
• Able to negotiate and mediate on issues with staff and the public, with the ability to inspire trust and loyalty.
• Able to establish high standards of performance for the department and maintain accountability standards.

Licenses and/or Certifications:
Valid Washington State driver's license.

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
Work is performed in an office environment.

HAZARDS:
Those present in a normal office environment.

Skagit County, as an equal employment opportunity employer, encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply. It is the policy of Skagit County to follow all federal and state laws to ensure non-discrimination in its employment practices. American with Disabilities Act (ADA) Notice: Individuals, who need an ADA accommodation to complete the application, test or interview process, please call: (360) 416-1380.

The statements contained herein reflect general details as necessary to describe the essential functions of this position, the level of knowledge and skill typically required, and the scope of responsibility, but should not be considered an all-inclusive listing of work requirements. Individuals may perform other duties as assigned, including work in other functional areas to cover absences or relief, to equalize peak work periods, or otherwise to balance the workload. Changes to the position description may be made at the discretion of the employer.

To view the job postng or apply visit our website at www.skagitcounty.net
(click on Employment from the quick links)

Skagit County WA

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Public Works Director