Director of Public Works

The City of Sikeston is seeking candidates for the role of Director of Public Works. Reporting directly to the City Manager, the Director of Public Works provides executive-level leadership for the Public Works Department, including engineering, streets, fleet/garage, parks and recreation, airport, and stormwater management. This role focuses on strategic oversight, operational leadership, and policy development.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead, direct, and manage all Public Works operations and personnel
• Develop and administer departmental budgets, including capital improvement planning
• Oversee maintenance of city infrastructure, facilities, vehicles, and equipment
• Coordinate and manage grant-funded projects, ensuring compliance and reporting requirements
• Serve as an advisor to the City Manager, boards, and commissions
• Establish departmental policies, procedures, and performance expectations
• Ensure compliance with regulatory state and federal agencies
• Respond to community concerns and support public engagement efforts

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Public Administration, or related field required
• Professional Engineer (PE) license strongly preferred
• Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in public works, civil engineering, or municipal operations
• Prior leadership or management experience required
• Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Strong leadership, organizational, and supervisory skills
• Experience in budgeting, capital planning, and project oversight
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines under pressure
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work effectively with elected officials, staff, and the public
• High level of judgment, initiative, and attention to detail

Work Environment & Requirements:

• Primarily office-based role with occasional site visits for observation and inspection
• Must be able to work irregular hours as needed
• Ability to operate a motor vehicle and maintain a valid driver’s license
• Must reside within 30 miles of Sikeston city limits
• Pre-employment and ongoing drug/alcohol screening required

Compensation & Benefits:

Salary Range: $85,000 – $120,000 commensurate with experience and qualifications

• Professional Engineer(PE) preference: Candidates holding a PE license may be eligible for starting salaries slightly above or in the upper portion of the range, depending on experience and scope alignment.
• Vehicle Allowance
• The City of Sikeston offers a generous benefit and compensation policy including 80% paid health insurance for employees and dependents, 100% paid retirement through LAGERS, 457 Deferred Compensation Plan, 14 paid holidays, paid vacation and sick leave, cafeteria plan, and wellness benefits.

Apply:

Join a dedicated leadership team committed to maintaining and improving essential public services for the Sikeston community. Cover letters, resumes and an application can be completed online at https://sikestonmo.rja.revize.com/forms/8917. Or cover letters, resumes and/or the job descriptions can be turned into HR at email: hr@sikeston.org. The position will be open until filled.

• The City of Sikeston is an Equal Opportunity Employer. This employer participates in E-Verify: We confirm the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired.