DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS

Summary Description

The City of San Marcos invites qualified applications for the position of Director of Public Works. We are seeking a collaborative, forward-thinking leader who will provide strategic direction, inspire high-performing teams, and ensure the continued delivery of exceptional public services.

THE RIGHT PLACE

Just minutes from the Pacific Ocean, San Marcos has emerged as one of San Diego County's most desirable communities, offering top-ranked schools, California State University San Marcos, and a thriving economy. Residents and businesses alike are discovering that San Marcos is a great place to live, work, and play.

YOUR IMPACT

• Lead Exceptional Teams: Provide leadership and direction to managers, supervisors, and staff dedicated to delivering high-quality public services.
• Advance Strategic Priorities: Guide long-range planning efforts, asset management initiatives, and service delivery improvements that support the City's goals.
• Champion Operational Excellence: Ensure efficient and effective use of resources while maintaining a strong focus on customer service and continuous improvement.
• Oversee Complex Programs: Direct departmental operations, operating budgets, consultant contracts, maintenance activities, major asset replacement efforts, facility improvement projects, and externally funded initiatives.
• Build Strong Partnerships: Collaborate with elected officials, community members, regulatory agencies, developers, and regional partners to address public works challenges and opportunities.
• Shape the City's Future: Participate in Citywide initiatives and provide highly responsible professional assistance to the City Manager and Assistant City Manager on matters affecting public infrastructure and service delivery.

PUBLIC SERVICE IS AT OUR CORE

• Be Problem Solvers (Customer Service): Anticipate needs and provide effective solutions.
• Be Good Partners (Teamwork): Collaborate across departments and with external stakeholders.
• Fiscal Responsibility (Operate Like an Efficient Business): Make informed decisions that support long-term financial sustainability.
• Build to Last (Professionalism): Deliver high-quality work that benefits the community for years to come.

THE RIGHT PERKS

• Competitive salary
• 9/80 work schedule with every other Friday off
• Employer-paid medical premiums at 90%
• Dental and vision benefits
• Fourteen paid holidays annually
• Vacation and sick leave accruals
• Executive leave benefits
• Participation in the CalPERS retirement system
• Social Security participation
• Tuition reimbursement program, which may also be used toward eligible student loan payments

Recruitment Timeline

Application period closes: 4pm on Tuesday, July 14, 2026
First Interview: TBD

Representative Duties

Please click on the link below to read the full job description.
Director of Public Works