The City of Springfield is seeking a dynamic Operations Division Director to lead a high-impact department responsible for the systems that keep our City running- today and for generations to come.
In this role, you’ll do more than manage operations- you’ll set direction, influence policy, and champion investments that strengthen the quality of life for our residents and businesses. This is a unique opportunity to guide essential services while partnering with elected officials, regional agencies, and the community to deliver meaningful, lasting results.
What You’ll Do:
•Provide strategic leadership and oversight of the Public Works Division, including staff, policies, and program operations.
•Ensure optimal performance of critical infrastructure systems, including stormwater, wastewater conveyance, right-of-way amenities (pedestrian facilities, traffic control systems, landscaping, pavement, and trees), the City’s fleet, and municipal buildings.
•Anticipate and plan for the community’s short- and long-term needs, aligning departmental goals with City Council priorities and evolving regulatory requirements.
•Lead financial stewardship, including oversight of capital improvement programs and operational budgets, while ensuring full regulatory compliance.
•Build and strengthen partnerships with elected officials, regional organizations, and community stakeholders to advance shared goals.
•Drive organizational excellence by fostering workforce development, enhancing team performance, and cultivating a culture of innovation and accountability.
What You Bring:
•Proven leadership experience in public works, utilities, or a related field.
•A strategic mindset with the ability to translate complex regulations and infrastructure needs into actionable plans.
•Strong financial acumen and experience managing large, multifaceted budgets.
•A collaborative approach to working with elected officials, community partners, and internal teams.
•A passion for public service and a commitment to building resilient, sustainable communities.
For the complete Director job description, please see: Class Specifications | Development & Public Works Director (CDD/OPS) | Class Spec Details
Training & Experience:
The City will consider any equivalent combination of knowledge, skills, education, and experience to meet minimum qualifications. Such a way to meet minimum qualifications could include:
• Bachelor’s degree in public administration, business administration, construction management, or related field;
• 7-10 years of increasingly responsible experience in public works or utilities, and;
• 5 or more years of management experience with at least 2 years of executive management experience (or equivalency in scope or complexity)
License and Certification:
• A valid Oregon Driver’s license by time of appointment
Selection and Interview Process:
Top candidates will be invited to interview.
As a part of our selection process, it will be necessary for candidates to provide the names and email addresses of up to five professional references (including two managers) that can provide information on work performance. To avoid any delay in the process, we ask candidates to start gathering reference information now (name, email address, contact info and time period you worked together). Additional information regarding reference checking will be emailed to candidates at a later date through the SkillSurvey Pre-Hire 360 system.
The selection process will include: reference checks and criminal background check.
All testing and selection processes will be done in accordance with the Oregon Veteran’s Preference in Public Employment Law.
Please do not indicate ‘See Resume’ in the ‘Work Experience’ part of the application. The information you provide in the application ‘Work Experience’ and ‘Job Duties’ will be used to determine if you will proceed to the next phase in the selection process. Information related to education and experience must be verifiable on your application to be given credit.
NOTE: This announcement is intended as a general descriptive recruitment guide and is subject to change. It does not constitute either an expressed or implied contract.
The City of Springfield is an Equal Opportunity Employer.