Director, Department of Public Works (Westport)

POSITION OVERVIEW: The Town of Westport seeks an experienced and collaborative leader to serve as Director of Public Works. Reporting to the First Selectman, the Director oversees a multi-division department responsible for the Town’s core infrastructure, including Highway, Equipment Maintenance, Solid Waste Management, Engineering, Wastewater Treatment and Collection, and Buildings and Facilities. The Director supervises division heads and senior technical staff and provides strategic direction across operations, capital planning, and emergency response. The successful candidate will demonstrate sound judgment, fiscal discipline, and inclusive leadership, along with the ability to build trust across departments and with elected officials, staff, contractors and residents. The Town of Westport values candidates who approach the role with professionalism, integrity, and a clear commitment to serving the community.

RESPONSIBILITIES: •Oversees and directs all Public Works operations, including engineering and design, construction and maintenance of roads, bridges, wastewater systems, solid waste and recycling, fleet, and Town buildings and facilities. •Prepares, administers, and presents the departmental operating budget and capital plans, and provides reports to Town leadership, boards, and commissions. •Manages bid specifications, consultant and contractor selection, and contract administration for capital and operational projects. •Provides technical guidance to Town departments on infrastructure planning, construction, and maintenance, and prepares cost estimates and capital project recommendations. •Directs departmental response during emergencies and is a critical member of the Town’s Emergency Operations Center. •Manages department staffing, including policy development, training, performance, and personnel actions in coordination with Human Resources and the First Selectman. •Serves as liaison with federal, state, and local agencies. •Oversees energy conservation and sustainability initiatives, GIS and mapping, grant preparation and administration, and investigation of citizen and staff concerns.

QUALIFICATIONS: •Bachelor’s degree in engineering, public administration, construction, or a related field; Master’s degree desirable. •Over ten years of progressively responsible experience in multifunctional organizations, preferably in the public sector and managing construction-related projects. Experience must include at least four years supervising a major department function. •Any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. •Licensure as a Professional Engineer and/or Land Surveyor a plus.