Public Works Director - City of San Luis Obispo, California

The City of San Luis Obispo (SLO), population approximately 50,000, is in the heart of California’s majestic Central Coast. Along with being known for endless outdoor recreation opportunities, over 4,000 acres of open space and natural areas, its business community, a visitor destination, and an excellent location to live, SLO is a community that embraces its future while respecting its past through core values of civility, sustainability, diversity, inclusivity, regionalism, partnership, and resiliency. The City is committed to being a place where all people feel valued and respected.

The City seeks a Public Works Director who, by leading and managing the Public Works Department, will coordinate with and work alongside individuals responsible for operational functions that deliver services related to the public’s quality of life, essential needs, public safety, disaster response, and daily living.  The City also seeks a Director who will work closely with the full department head team that is united by a shared commitment to serve the community by communicating with one voice, interacting openly and honestly, nurturing trust, fostering understanding, and promoting a culture of support and accountability. 

The ideal candidate is team oriented, a passionate and seasoned leader of Public Works, an excellent communicator, and an action-oriented change agent.  The typical background and experience for this position includes a bachelor’s degree and 5 years of public works administration experience in a supervisory capacity in a municipal or other governmental agency. A valid certificate of registration as a Civil Engineer in the State of California is ideal but not required. The annual salary range is $183,222 to $229,060. The City also provides an excellent benefit package.

Filing deadline: September 5, 2025
Resumes are acknowledged within 2 business days.