Public Works Director & County Engineer — Strategic Infrastructure

Mille Lacs County Attorney's Office; Milaca (MN); On-site; USD 133,000 - 174,000; Full time

Job summary

The Public Works Director serves as the department head for the Public Works Department and the County Engineer pursuant to Minnesota Statute 163.07, providing leadership and direction related to operations and services within the county. This is a non-union position with a 2026 annual salary range of $132,662.40 to $173,534.40.

Essential duties include supervision, budget preparation, policy development, and coordination with the County Administrator.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering with eight years of related work experience, including two years in supervision.
• Hold Minnesota Professional Engineering License.
• Possess a Class D Driver’s License.

Responsibilities

• Provides supervision and leadership to department personnel, with staffing decisions and performance reviews.
• Maintains relationships with internal and external stakeholders through effective communications.
• Allocates and analyzes resources, develops budgets, and coordinates funding with the County Administrator.
• Plans and implements short- and long-term objectives and policies for the Public Works Department.
• Manages county road system including planning, design, construction oversight, and Right-of-Way.
• Prepares applications for funding and administers state and federal funds.
• Collaborates with other departments and agencies to address service needs and regulatory changes.
• Reports program outcomes and fiscal issues to the County Board and County Administrator.
• Oversees County parks and trails projects and long-term planning activities.

Education

Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering

Minnesota Professional Engineering License

Class D Driver’s License

Job description

The Public Works Director serves as the department head for the Public Works Department and the County Engineer pursuant to Minnesota Statute 163.07, providing leadership and direction related to operations and services within the county. This is a non-union position with a 2026 annual salary range of $132,662.40 to $173,534.40.

Essential duties include supervision, budget preparation, policy development, and coordination with the County Administrator.