Deputy Director of Public Works & Utilities

 The City of Laguna Beach is seeking an experienced and collaborative leader to serve as our next Deputy Director of Public Works & Utilities, with a focus on the Wastewater and Water Quality Divisions. This is a key leadership role responsible for overseeing critical operations, utility infrastructure, environmental programs, and regulatory compliance that protect our coastal community.

The Deputy Director will lead a talented team, guide strategic initiatives, and ensure the delivery of high-quality public services, including wastewater collections system and lift station operations, stormwater management, and water quality compliance.

What You’ll Be Great At

• Leading and managing complex Public Works operations, including wastewater collections, lift stations operations, and water quality programs
• Providing strategic leadership, planning, and operational oversight across assigned divisions
• Building and developing high-performing teams focused on accountability and service excellence
• Managing operations and maintenance budgets, and assist with long-range infrastructure planning
• Collaborating with regulatory agencies, customers, consultants, internal and external stakeholders
• Responding effectively to operational challenges, emergencies, and public concerns
• Overseeing stormwater and urban runoff programs, including BMP implementation and regulatory reporting
• Driving process improvements and implementing innovative solutions
• Providing oversight and accountability for wastewater and stormwater regulatory compliance programs, including urban water diversions.

Desirable Experience

• Experience leading wastewater or water quality programs in a public agency utility setting
• Experience overseeing or implementing a Sewer System Management Plan
• Knowledge of wastewater regulatory compliance; water quality regulatory compliance is a plus!
• Experience implementing process improvements and operational efficiencies
• Familiarity with water quality monitoring, reporting, and environmental compliance programs
• Demonstrated success in building collaborative teams and fostering a positive workplace culture

Apply now to be part of the first review! Applications will be accepted on a continuous basis, with the first review on May 14, 2026.

The normal duties for this position can be found in the job description for Deputy Director of Public Works & Utilities. They are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned.

Any combination of education and training demonstrating the ability to effectively and successfully perform the duties of the position is considered qualifying.  A typical combination is as follows:

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in public administration, business administration, civil or environmental engineering, or a related field. 

Experience:

• Six or more years (extensive) of experience in the supervision of maintenance and/or operations staff and management of public works and/or utility maintenance operations. 

License/Certificate Requirements:

• Due to the performance of some field duties, which may require the operation of a personal or City vehicle, a valid California Driver’s license and an acceptable driving record are required.
• Possession of a Collection System Maintenance (CSM) Grade 2 or higher certification from CWEA is desirable.

This recruitment will establish an eligibility list that may be used to fill future vacancies in the same or lower classifications.

Application/Selection Process: Applications will be screened carefully, and selected applicants will be invited to participate in the Structured Panel Interview. The appointing hiring authority will further review the job-related qualifications of those deemed eligible for hire before making selection decisions. The selection process may be modified based on the needs of the City.

Pre-employment Process: The selected candidate must successfully pass a fingerprint check with the State Department of Justice, educational and employment verification, and reference check(s).

Why work for Laguna Beach: Laguna Beach is a beautiful coastal city located in Orange County, California, with a vibrant art scene and cultural events. We offer competitive compensation and benefits packages, including City paid health insurance for employees, retirement plans, and paid time off. The City has a strong commitment to its employees, providing opportunities for professional growth and development through training and education programs.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The City of Laguna Beach is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. We encourage you to inform Human Resources at least two business days prior to the first phase of the selection process if you have a disability that may require an accommodation.  EEO/ADA.