Deputy Director of Public Works and Utilities
About the Position
The Deputy Director of Public Works and Utilities serves as a key leader within the Engineering and Public Works Department and assists in directing the City’s engineering, public works, and utility operations. This position provides leadership for infrastructure planning, capital improvement projects, utility systems, engineering services, and public works operations while supporting the Director in achieving the City’s strategic and operational goals. The Deputy Director works collaboratively with City leadership, elected officials, developers, contractors, regulatory agencies, and residents to ensure the efficient delivery of municipal services, the successful completion of public infrastructure projects, and the continued stewardship of the City’s public assets.
View the full list of job responsibilities and more at:
Welcome to La Crosse
Nestled along the Mississippi River and framed by dramatic limestone bluffs, the City of La Crosse is one of Wisconsin’s most distinctive and vibrant communities. Home to approximately 53,000 residents, La Crosse serves as the economic, educational, healthcare, and cultural center of western Wisconsin. Its unique blend of natural beauty, historic character, and urban amenities creates an exceptional quality of life for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.
The City provides a comprehensive range of municipal services, including public safety, public works, planning and development, parks and recreation, engineering, and utility services. Residents enjoy 47 city parks, miles of scenic trails, an active riverfront, vibrant arts and entertainment, nationally recognized festivals, and abundant year-round recreational opportunities. The community is also home to three higher education institutions, two nationally recognized healthcare systems, and the La Crosse Center—the region’s premier convention, entertainment, and event venue, which hosts concerts, sporting events, conventions, and community celebrations throughout the year.
La Crosse’s historic downtown, diverse neighborhoods, and strong commercial and industrial sectors continue to drive investment and growth. Ongoing priorities include infrastructure improvements, neighborhood revitalization, housing, economic development, environmental stewardship, and enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors alike. Major employers, a growing entrepreneurial community, and a collaborative business climate position La Crosse for continued long-term success.
Guided by engaged residents, collaborative leadership, and a commitment to innovation, sustainability, and exceptional public service, La Crosse continues to build on its rich history while embracing opportunities for the future. It is a community where people come to live, work, learn, and enjoy one of Wisconsin’s premier riverfront destinations.
Learn more at lacrossewi.gov.
The Ideal Candidate
The City of La Crosse seeks an experienced, collaborative, and innovative public works and engineering professional to serve as its next Deputy Director of Public Works and Utilities. The ideal candidate will possess strong technical expertise in municipal engineering, public infrastructure, and utility operations, along with the leadership skills necessary to support a high-performing department. This individual will demonstrate sound judgment, strategic thinking, and a commitment to delivering high-quality public services while helping guide the City’s infrastructure investments and operational priorities.
The successful candidate will be an approachable and responsive leader who communicates complex engineering and public works issues in a clear and understandable manner. They will build strong working relationships with residents, contractors, developers, elected officials, City staff, and regulatory agencies while providing exceptional customer service. The ideal candidate will also bring a forward-thinking mindset, leveraging technology, data-driven decision-making, and industry best practices to enhance operations, improve infrastructure, and support the City’s long-term strategic goals.
Expected Hiring Range: $102,500-$117,000 (DOQ)
Excellent benefits package and enrollment in Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS).
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or a closely related engineering field.
Registration as a Professional Engineer (P.E.) in Wisconsin, or the ability to obtain Wisconsin registration within an agreed-upon timeframe.
Minimum of six (6) years of progressively responsible engineering experience, including experience with supervision, project management, budgeting, and municipal infrastructure.
Thorough knowledge of engineering principles, public works operations, utility systems, capital improvement planning, and construction management.
Experience managing public infrastructure projects, consultant contracts, and regulatory compliance.
Excellent leadership, communication, project management, and interpersonal skills.
Valid Wisconsin driver’s license.
View the full list of job responsibilities and more at:
Apply now!
Innovative Public Advisors (IPA) is conducting the executive recruitment process for this position.
Applications are being accepted until filled, with first review no later than August 14, 2026.
Please upload (right) or send a cover letter, resume, salary history, and professional references to Jay Shambeau at jay@public-advisors.com.
Please direct questions to 262-355-6102.
Thank you for your interest!