Public Works Director

Bartlett; Bartlett (IL); On-site; USD 164,000 - 225,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Vehicle allowance

Village-issued cell phone

Retirement plan (IMRF)

Job summary

The Village of Bartlett, IL, is seeking an experienced Public Works Director to guide infrastructure, service delivery, and community vitality for this family‑focused suburb located about 35 miles northwest of Chicago. Bartlett offers a forward‑looking, high‑impact leadership role in a supportive community.

The Director will oversee streets, water and wastewater utilities, stormwater, engineering, forestry, fleet and facilities, and capital project delivery, reporting to the Village

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, public administration, or related field; 7–10 years of progressively responsible experience in public works or municipal engineering leadership; emergency management experience.
• Demonstrated ability to guide diverse teams, set priorities, and align with Village goals.
• Experience collaborating with residents, staff, contractors, elected officials, and regional partners.

Responsibilities

• Oversee Streets, water and wastewater utilities, stormwater, engineering, forestry, fleet and facilities, and capital project delivery.
• Guide infrastructure investment, long-range planning, and technology adoption to improve service delivery.
• Collaborate with residents, staff, and officials to drive organizational performance and transparency.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Operational & technical expertise

Collaborative problem solving

Customer-focused mindset

Professional integrity

Leadership experience in public works

Education

Bachelor's degree in civil engineering, public administration, or related field

Job description

• Salary/Pay Rate: $163,704 to $225,185 Annually
• Posted Date: 10/13/2026 1:26 PM
• Deadline to Apply: 10/30/2026 4:00 PM

Bartlett, IL (pop. 41,105) – The Village of Bartlett is seeking an experienced and forward‑thinking Public Works Director to help shape the long‑term infrastructure, service delivery, and community vitality of a thriving, family‑focused suburb located 35 miles northwest of Chicago. Bartlett is known for its exceptional quality of life, strong community values, outstanding schools, and commitment to high‑quality municipal services. With significant ongoing infrastructure investment and a culture of professionalism and innovation, Bartlett offers an exciting opportunity for a high‑impact leader ready to advance the Village’s mission.

Bartlett is a full‑service organization staffed by dedicated professionals who value strategic thinking, collaboration, and continuous improvement. The Village benefits from stable leadership and a community that embraces progress, engagement, and operational excellence.

The Public Works Department is essential to Bartlett’s success, responsible for maintaining 182 miles of streets, 209 miles of water mains, 160 miles of sanitary sewer mains, and a wide range of public facilities, parks, fleets, and community assets. The department oversees snow and ice operations, capital improvements, water supply operations, forestry programs, stormwater and wastewater management, and emergency response activities that keep Bartlett safe, efficient, and resilient. Supported by a talented and mission‑driven workforce, the next Director will guide critical services that directly enhance Bartlett’s daily quality of life.

The Public Works Director is appointed by the Mayor with consent of the Board of Trustees and reports to the Village Administrator. This leader oversees all divisions including streets, water and wastewater utilities, stormwater, engineering, forestry, fleet and facilities, and capital project delivery. The Village seeks an inspiring, service‑oriented leader who embraces innovation, long‑range planning, technology, and collaborative problem‑solving.

Top candidates will bring:

• Strategic leadership – Demonstrated ability to guide diverse operational teams, establish priorities, and drive organizational performance in alignment with Village goals.
• Operational and technical expertise – Strong foundation in public works, utilities, municipal engineering, infrastructure systems, and capital project management.
• Collaborative problem‑solving – Proven success working with residents, staff, contractors, elected officials, and regional partners to advance shared objectives.
• Customer‑focused mindset – Commitment to responsive communication, transparency, and high‑quality service delivery.
• Professional integrity – A reliable, ethical, and accountable leader who models professionalism and sound judgment.
• Strong educational and experiential background – bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, public administration, business administration, or related field; 7–10 years of progressively responsible experience in public works, utilities, or municipal engineering leadership; emergency management experience; and consideration of equivalent combinations of education and experience.

Compensation and Benefits:
The Village of Bartlett offers a competitive salary range of $163,704 to $225,185, with an anticipated hiring range up to $185,000 depending on qualifications. The Village provides comprehensive benefits including health, dental, vision, and life insurance; participation in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund; a 457 plan with partial employer contributions; paid leave; professional development opportunities; a vehicle allowance; a Village‑issued cell phone; and a retirement health savings plan.

Join a Community That Invests in Excellence:
From multimillion‑dollar capital improvements to innovative asset‑management strategies, Bartlett offers a rewarding environment for a leader committed to public service and operational excellence. This is an outstanding career opportunity for a professional ready to make a measurable impact in a supportive and forward‑looking community.

The Village of Bartlett is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds.