Published date: August 25, 2025
Job Title: Public Works Director
Organization: City of Newcastle
Address: Newcastle, WA
Job Website Link: https://www.newcastlewa.gov/departments/human_resources/current_openings
Short Description: The City of Newcastle is seeking an experienced, collaborative, and dynamic Public Works Director to lead a dedicated team in managing the City’s infrastructure, including streets, stormwater, parks, trails, and public facilities. This role is ideal for a hands-on leader who can maximize resources, deliver projects efficiently, and inspire a high-performing team.
Job Category: Director
Job Type: Full Time, Exempt
Salary and Benefits Information: $146,652 – $191,348 annually
Full Description:
Public Works Director
Salary Range: $146,652 – $191,348 annually
Hiring Range: $146, 652 (Step 1) to $165,058 (Step 5)
Open Date: August 21, 2025
Close Date: Open Until Filled (First Review: September 26, 2025)
About the Role
The City of Newcastle is seeking an experienced and dynamic Public Works Director to lead the City’s infrastructure and maintenance operations. This position reports directly to the City Manager and is responsible for planning, directing, and managing the Public Works Department, including streets, stormwater systems, parks, trails, and public facilities.
The Public Works Director will provide leadership for a team of 12.5 FTEs and oversee an annual departmental budget of $4.6 million. The Director will also serve as a key advisor to the City Manager, collaborating with City Council, regulatory agencies, contractors, and community stakeholders to deliver essential services and capital projects.
What You’ll Do
• Direct all functions of the Public Works Department, including infrastructure maintenance, capital improvement projects, and regulatory compliance.
• Supervise department staff, including the Assistant City Engineer, Parks & Trails Planner, Infrastructure Maintenance Manager, Stormwater Program Manager, and Administrative Assistant.
• Manage departmental budget, contracts, grants, and reporting requirements.
• Develop and implement long-term infrastructure and maintenance plans.
• Support code enforcement coordination, inspections, and standardized documentation.
• Provide high-level staff support to the City Manager and City Council.
Who You Are
• A strategic, hands-on leader who can manage day-to-day operations while guiding long-term planning.
• A strong communicator who can build trust with staff, Council, and the community.
• An effective problem-solver who can balance competing priorities and maximize resources.
• Highly skilled in public works operations, capital project delivery, and intergovernmental coordination.
Education & Experience
• Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Civil Engineering, Planning, or a closely related field
Equivalent experience may be considered in lieu of a degree
• Seven years of progressively responsible government experience
• Demonstrated success as a department head in a local government agency preferred.
Why Join Us?
• Work in a collaborative, supportive organization with a dedicated leadership team and engaged community.
• Lead a small but high-performing department where innovation and initiative are encouraged.
• Enjoy competitive compensation, full benefits, and the opportunity to make a lasting impact.
Compensation & Benefits
• $145,472 – $191,348 annually DOQ
• Medical, dental/orthodontia, and vision coverage
• Life, AD&D, and long-term disability insurance
• Paid vacation (12–23 days annually), sick leave, holidays, and floating holidays
• PERS Retirement and 401(a) matching program
• No state income tax
To Apply
Submit your application online: www.newcastlewa.gov/departments/human_resources/current_openings