Assistant City Manager/Director of Public Works

About the role

The City of Sikeston is seeking candidates for the role of Assistant City Manager/Director of Public Works. Reporting directly to the City Manager, this is a dual-role executive position. It combines high-level municipal administration with technical oversight of city infrastructure. The Public Works Department includes engineering, streets, fleet/garage, building maintenance, parks and recreation, airport, and stormwater management. This role focuses on strategic oversight, operational leadership, and policy development.

Responsibilities

• Ensures all operational directives, administrative determinations, and project executions strictly align with, and actively advance, the strategic vision, administrative priorities, and intent of the City Manager
• Advises City Council, City Manager, and City Attorney on a broad range of issues within areas of responsibility
• Assists in the coordination of the City economic development team
• Serves as the City Manager's designee, liaison, or representative as assigned
• May serve as Acting City Manager in the absence of the City Manager upon delegation
• Lead, direct, and manage all Public Works operations and personnel
• Develop and administer departmental budgets, including capital improvement planning
• Oversee maintenance of city infrastructure, facilities, vehicles, and equipment
• Coordinate and manage grant-funded projects, ensuring compliance and reporting requirements
• Serve as an advisor to the City Manager, boards, and commissions
• Establish departmental policies, procedures, and performance expectations
• Ensure compliance with regulatory state and federal agencies
• Respond to community concerns and support public engagement efforts

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in public administration, business administration or related field required
• Master's degree in public administration or related field preferred
• Bachelor's degree in civil engineering preferred
• Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in government or public management or executive level management
• Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong leadership, organizational, and supervisory skills
• Experience in budgeting, capital planning, and project oversight
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines under pressure
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work effectively with elected officials, staff, and the public
• High level of judgment, initiative, and attention to detail

Work Environment & Requirements

• Primarily office-based role with occasional site visits for observation and inspection
• Must be able to work irregular hours as needed
• Ability to operate a motor vehicle and maintain a valid driver's license
• Must reside within 30 miles of Sikeston city limits
• Pre-employment and ongoing drug/alcohol screening required

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary Range: $93,000 – $120,000 commensurate with experience and qualifications
• Vehicle allowance
• 80% paid health insurance for employees and dependents
• 100% paid retirement through LAGERS
• 457 Deferred Compensation Plan
• 14 paid holidays
• Paid vacation and sick leave
• Cafeteria plan
• Wellness benefits

Position is open until filled.