Public Works Director: Infrastructure Leader & Equity Advocate

City of Lancaster (PA); Philadelphia (Philadelphia County); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Lancaster (PA) is seeking a strategic Director of Public Works to lead the department’s operations, capital programs, and infrastructure modernization. The role emphasizes data-driven decision making, strong stakeholder engagement, and advancing climate adaptation while ensuring safety and equity across city services.

The ideal leader will manage cross-disciplinary teams, oversee facilities, utilities, and environmental programs, and partner with the Mayor’s Executive Leadership Team to

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field; advanced degree preferred.
• Progressive public works administration/management experience (7–10+ years) leading interdisciplinary teams and complex capital programs.
• Experience in unionized settings (e.g., AFSCME) highly desired.

Responsibilities

• Set multi-year strategy aligned to city priorities; lead capital planning, asset management, and program performance.
• Oversee engineering staff; direct municipal maintenance and improvements (streetscapes, paving, sidewalks/curbs, traffic signals, signage, streetlights).
• Ensure safe, compliant drinking water services; manage wastewater operations; lead stormwater/green infrastructure programs.
• Manage public buildings/facilities and solid waste & recycling contracts; outreach and enforcement.
• Maintain EPA Consent Decree compliance; oversee long-term O&M and reporting.
• Advance urban forestry and public art integration in city projects in consultation with the Public Art Advisory Board.
• Prepare and manage operating and capital budgets; review expenditures; approve purchases.
• Oversee RFPs/bids; recommend awards; enforce policies and regulations; lead audits and process improvements.
• Represent the City with residents, regulatory agencies, consultants, and partner jurisdictions; serve on boards/commissions.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Data-driven decision making

Stakeholder relations

Communication

Safety & risk management

Team building

Project management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Public Administration, Business Administration, or related field

Advanced degree preferred

Tools

GIS

Work Order Management

Job description

City of Lancaster (PA) is seeking a strategic Director of Public Works to lead the department’s operations, capital programs, and infrastructure modernization. The role emphasizes data-driven decision making, strong stakeholder engagement, and advancing climate adaptation while ensuring safety and equity across city services.

The ideal leader will manage cross-disciplinary teams, oversee facilities, utilities, and environmental programs, and partner with the Mayor’s Executive Leadership Team to