Public Works Director

About the Position

The City of Washburn is a welcoming Lake Superior community of 2,000 residents, located along the shores of Chequamegon Bay between Ashland and Bayfield. As the Bayfield County seat, Washburn offers the charm of a small, tight-knit city with a strong emphasis on outdoor recreation and quality of life.

The Public Works Director is a key member of the City’s leadership team, responsible for planning, directing, and overseeing all activities of the Department of Public Works (DPW). This position ensures the effective and efficient management of City infrastructure, including streets, water, sewer, stormwater systems, and parks. The Director provides strategic guidance, supervises staff, manages compliance requirements, and collaborates with City officials, contractors, engineers, service providers, and the community.

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About the Community

Washburn is home to two lakeside camping parks with boat launch facilities, several local parks, and a scenic pedestrian and recreation path that connects key destinations along the shoreline.

The City continues to invest in recreational opportunities, with plans underway for a new Bike Park to complement its ATV/UTV and snowmobile trail network. The harbor and marina provide long-term slips, a large public pier, and access for both working vessels and fishing, making Washburn a true gateway to the water.

The City maintains approximately 30 miles of roadway, including asphalt streets, gravel periphery roads, and traditional gravel alleyways serving residential neighborhoods. Recent infrastructure improvements include Phase I reconstruction of State Highway 13, Washburn’s primary thoroughfare, with the final phase scheduled for completion by 2027.

Washburn owns and operates its own water and wastewater utilities, and coordinates with neighboring jurisdictions when needed. With its combination of residential character, community spirit, and natural amenities, Washburn is a unique place to live, work, and serve.

Learn more at cityofwashburnwi.gov.

The Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate will be an experienced and collaborative public works leader with a proven record of managing municipal infrastructure and utility operations. They will bring strong technical knowledge of roads, water, sewer, stormwater, and parks maintenance, paired with the leadership skills to motivate and develop a diverse staff team. A forward-thinking problem solver, the successful candidate will demonstrate sound judgment, project management expertise, and the ability to balance daily operations with long-term capital planning.

Salary Range: $80,000-$95,000

Qualifications

  • Five or more years of progressively responsible experience in municipal public works, utilities, or related infrastructure management.

  • Knowledge of Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and Department of Transportation regulations.

  • Bachelor’s degree (preferred) in civil engineering, public administration, or a related field.

  • At least three years of supervisory experience.

  • Valid Wisconsin driver’s license with CDL.

Benefits package includes:

  • Group health insurance, dental insurance, supplemental vision insurance, and life insurance.

  • Enrollment in the Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) Pension.

Learn more:

Apply now!

Innovative Public Advisors (IPA) is conducting the executive recruitment process for this position.

Applications are now being accepted until the position is filled, with a first review no later than September 17, 2025.

Please upload or email your cover letter, resume, salary history, and professional references to Jay Shambeau at jay@public-advisors.com.

Please direct questions to Jay at 262-355-6102.

Thank you for your interest!