What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Public Works position at City of South Lake Tahoe, CA?
Description
CITY OF SOUTH LAKE TAHOE
DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS
Nestled on the stunning California-Nevada border and surrounded by the Sierra Nevada Mountains, South Lake Tahoe is more than just a destination, it's a lifestyle. Known as “America’s All Year Playground,” this vibrant mountain town offers a rare blend of breathtaking natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and small-town charm.
From powdery slopes in the winter to crystal-clear waters and endless hiking trails in the summer, there’s no off-season here. Residents enjoy world-class skiing, boating, biking, golfing, and more, all just minutes from their front door. A dynamic mix of cozy neighborhoods, thriving local businesses, and year-round events make South Lake Tahoe the perfect place to live, work, and play.
Whether you're drawn by the lake, the trails, or the welcoming community spirit, South Lake Tahoe offers an exceptional quality of life in one of the most spectacular settings in the country.
THE CITY GOVERNMENT
South Lake Tahoe is the largest city in El Dorado County and operates under a Council-Manager form of government. The five-member City Council is elected at-large and appoints a City Manager who oversees daily operations. The Council also appoints a Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem annually.
For Fiscal Year 2024–2025, the City has a total budget of $297.2 million across all funds, with a General Fund budget of $68.8 million. Public Works plays a key role in delivering capital infrastructure and maintaining essential public services citywide.
THE DEPARTMENT
The Public Works Department is responsible for planning, constructing, and maintaining the City’s infrastructure and public facilities. Major functions include:
- Engineering and Capital Improvement Projects (CIP)
- Streets, Roads, and Traffic Operations
- Storm Water Management
- Facilities Maintenance
- Fleet Services (Motor Pool)
- Snow Removal
The Director oversees an engaged and professional team that delivers high-impact projects and essential day-to-day services to support the residents, businesses, and visitors of South Lake Tahoe. The department plays a critical role in sustainability, resiliency, and long-term infrastructure planning.
THE POSITION
Reporting directly to the City Manager, the Director of Public Works plans, organizes, and oversees all departmental operations and services. The Director leads strategic initiatives, manages multi-million-dollar capital projects, and represents the department in community and interagency efforts. The Director is expected to actively engage with City leadership, the community, and staff at all levels to ensure infrastructure and public works services reflect the City’s values of responsiveness, sustainability, and excellence.
The Public Works Director will:
- Lead all divisions within the department, including engineering, streets, stormwater, facilities, and fleet.
- Develop and manage the department’s annual budget.
- Coordinate public infrastructure planning with internal departments and external agencies.
- Represent the City in technical and public meetings, including City Council.
- Mentor, evaluate, and support departmental staff to build capacity and succession.
- Oversee regulatory compliance efforts, including MS4 storm water discharge permits and CEQA-related obligations. Will serve as City Engineer and/or Traffic Engineer, depending on qualifications.
THE IDEAL CANDIDATE
The City of South Lake Tahoe seeks a collaborative, strategic, and experienced Public Works Director to lead a diverse portfolio of critical services.
The ideal candidate is a dynamic and forward-thinking leader with strong public infrastructure knowledge and experience in municipal operations. They will have a proven track record of motivating teams, managing complex projects, and effectively partnering with stakeholders. The next Director must be a strong communicator, problem solver, and mentor; able to lead with integrity, innovation, and a deep commitment to public service.
The successful candidate will be a key member of the City Manager’s executive team, providing high-level technical and strategic policy support while fostering a high-performance culture within the department.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
Education/Training:
Bachelor’s degree from an Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) accredited college or university in Civil or Environmental Engineering is highly desirable. A Master’s degree in a related field is preferred. A Bachelor’s degree in another field may be considered in conjunction with relevant experience.
Experience:
Ten (10) years of increasingly responsible experience in municipal public works or civil engineering, community development and public administration, including at least five (5) years in a management and administrative capacity.
License or Certificate:
Possession of a valid California or Nevada Driver’s License.
Professional Civil Engineer (P.E.) license in the state of California is highly desirable but not required.
Professional Traffic Engineer (T.E.) license in the state of California is highly desirable but not required.
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
The annual salary for the Director of Public Works is $160,827 - $195,486. Placement within this range is based on qualifications and experience.
The City offers a generous benefits package including:
Retirement:
The City participates in the California Public Employee’ Retirement System (CalPERS). Classic Members received a 2% at 55 formula, and a 2% at 62 formula for New Members (PEPRA). Employees pay the PERS employee contribution. The City does not participate in Social Security.
Deferred Compensation:
For Directors, 5% of salary is deposited into a 401(a) account. After one year of employment, Directors are eligible for 457 plan matching, up to $4,000.
Health Insurance:
The City offers a variety of health insurance plans and optional buy-up benefits. The City-sponsored medical plan (Blue Shield HDHP) includes City-funded HSA contributions ($2,500 for individual/$4,200 for family). Click here to view all of our plans.
Dental and Vision:
The City pays 100% of the cost of premium rates for dental and vision for employees and eligible dependents.
PTO, Management Leave, and Holidays:
The City provides 224 hours of PTO per year, increasing to 264 hours after 3 years. This position will also receive 100 hours of Administrative Leave credited in January (prorated based on hire date). The City recognizes 13 holidays per year.
Additional Benefits:
In addition to the above benefits, the City may provide relocation assistance, Bilingual Pay, Education Incentive Pay, Longevity Pay, tuition reimbursement, training opportunities, and flexible work schedules (at discretion of the City Manager).
RECRUITMENT SCHEDULE
Interested candidates must submit a cover letter and resume by Friday, August 15, 2025.
Interviews are scheduled for Thursday, September 11, 2025, and will consist of a panel interview with the Executive Team and an interview with City Manager. Please mark your calendars accordingly.
Salary : $160,827 - $195,486
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