DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS
The City of Valdez is seeking a dynamic, professional leader to guide and support a talented team of specialists across our Public Works divisions: Solid Waste, Water/Wastewater, Streets Maintenance, and Fleet Services. We’re looking for someone who lives our City values, partners effectively with executive leadership, and is committed to helping make Valdez a community that people are proud to call home.
What You’ll Do
Lead, develop, and motivate skilled teams • Collaborate with the executive team to advance City Council priorities • Provide effective oversight of division operations, policies, procedures, and compliance • Manage contracts, budgets, inventory systems, and regulatory responsibilities • Communicate expectations clearly and build strong relationships across departments and with the public • Prioritize and delegate multiple projects in a fast-paced environment • Respond to inquiries from citizens, management, and regulatory agencies
What You Bring
Proven experience as an effective manager • Six years of supervisory experience in skilled trades and/or technical fields • Preferred experience in public works, shops, landfills, or water/sewer operations • Knowledge of local government functions, NIMS, and relevant state/federal regulations • Strong understanding of contract management and fiscal stewardship • Ability to lead, communicate, collaborate, and make informed decisions • Equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered
Compensation & Benefits
This FLSA-exempt position offers a minimum 40-hour workweek and a highly competitive benefits package, including:
• Annual salary: $122,293 – $166,573 DOE/DOQ
• 13.5 paid holidays
• 24 days of annual personal leave (for employees with under 2 years of service)
• Affordable, comprehensive family health insurance (90/10 coverage)
• Supplemental life insurance options
• State of Alaska PERS membership
• Optional 457 deferred compensation plan
• City-matching 401(b) with 457 enrollment
• Tuition reimbursement
• Relocation assistance
• Advanced training opportunities
Hiring Timeline
Position open until filled. Applications are reviewed on an ongoing basis. First-round interviews will begin the first week of August 2026.