PUBLIC

NOTICE

Summary

The City of Joseph is accepting applications for a City Public Works Director. Join Joseph. Build Something Lasting. The City of Joseph, Oregon is looking for a hands-on, forward-thinking Public Works Director to lead the infrastructure and operations that keep our community running — and growing. If you’re the kind of leader who finds meaning in clean water, well-maintained roads, and a community that trusts its government, we want to hear from you. About Joseph Located in northeastern Oregon, the City of Joseph is a small, vibrant community known for its natural beauty, strong civic identity, and high quality of life. With a population of approximately 1,196 residents, Joseph offers the character of a close-knit mountain town with the rewards of meaningful public service. Governed by a Mayor-Council structure, the City of Joseph is served by seven full-time employees spanning the Administration, Library, and Public Works departments. The Role The Public Works Director serves as the operational lead for the City’s infrastructure — from utilities and roads to capital projects. Reporting to the City Council and working closely with the City Administrator, this position is expected to provide both high-level leadership and direct operational engagement across all areas of public works. The Public Works Director will be responsible for setting long-term departmental direction while remaining actively involved in the day-to-day functions of a small municipal environment where adaptability and accountability are essential. Core Responsibilities Infrastructure & Utilities • Oversee the planning, maintenance, and improvement of city utilities — water, sewer, streets, and related systems — to ensure reliable, high-quality service for residents. • Lead capital infrastructure projects from scoping through completion, managing timelines, budgets, and contractor performance. • Serve as the city’s primary point of contact for permits, public works contracts, and external agencies. Strategic & Administrative Leadership • Partner with the City Administrator and Council to provide data-driven recommendations on infrastructure investment, land use, and sustainable growth. • Contribute to the annual budget process, with direct responsibility for the Public Works department budget and long-range capital planning. • Support compliance with Oregon land-use regulations and city ordinances as they relate to public works and development. Community & Council Engagement • Attend City Council meetings and present clear, accessible updates on department priorities, project status, and emerging needs. • Build trust with residents by communicating proactively, following through consistently, and representing the City with professionalism in every interaction. Who We’re Looking For The City of Joseph is seeking a practical leader with technical expertise with a strong commitment to public service. The ideal candidate communicates with clarity and confidence — whether presenting to the City Council, coordinating with contractors, or responding to the concerns of a resident. This role demands someone who can balance long-term infrastructure planning with the immediate needs of the community, and who holds themselves to the highest standards of integrity — the kind that restores and sustains public confidence in local government. Qualifications Preferred: • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Public Administration, Construction Management, or a related, field. • 3+ years of progressive experience in public works, municipal operations, or infrastructure management. Alternate Path: • 10+ years of relevant professional experience in lieu of a degree will be considered. Certifications (Preferred): The following Oregon certifications are not required but are strongly preferred. Candidates who hold one or more of these certifications will be given greater consideration in the selection process. • Wastewater Treatment Operator — Grade 2 • Collection System Operator — Grade 2 • Water Treatment Operator — Grade 1 • Water Distribution Operator — Grade 1 • Cross-Connection Control Specialist Core Competencies: • Working knowledge of municipal infrastructure systems (water, sewer, streets, etc.) • Familiarity with Oregon land-use planning and public contracting requirements • Experience with fiscal management and budget experience • Strong written and verbal communication skills • High ethical standards and a collaborative leadership style Compensation & Benefits Salary: $80,000/year Benefits: • Oregon PERS retirement enrollment • Comprehensive medical and dental insurance • 9 paid holidays • 120 hours PTO per year • 120 hours vacation leave per year • Basic life insurance (supplemental available) Recruitment Process (Process subject to change per scheduling restrictions) June 8th, 2026 — Application Process Open July 9th, 2026 — Application Deadline July 13th-23rd, 2026 — First Review/Candidate Interviews TBD — Candidate Interviews (second set) Application Process To apply for this position download and complete: • City of Joseph Employment Application • City of Public Works Director Job Description Along with the application, please provide: • A detailed cover letter describing your experience, interest, and leadership style. • 3 Letters of Recommendation Please submit your packet via mail or email to: City of Joseph P.O. Box 15 Joseph, OR 97846 lmcquead@josephoregon.org Thank you for your interest in applying for the position of Public Works Director. For questions, please contact Lacey McQuead at lmcquead@josephoregon.org. Applications must be received by July 9th, 2026. EEOE.

Notice Date: Thursday, June 11th, 2026

• County: Wallowa
• Notice Type: Notice To Interested Persons Public Notice
• City: Joseph

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