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NEOGOV · 5 months ago

Director of Public Utilities (Director III) - Open Until Filled

1120 SW 5th Ave, OR

Full-time

Onsite

Director/Executive

$195K/yr - $290K/yr

7+ years exp

The City of Portland is seeking a transformational leader to serve as its first Director of Public Utility Services, overseeing the Water and Environmental Services bureaus. This executive-level role is responsible for service delivery, operations, regulatory compliance, and implementing the One Water strategy for over 650,000 residents while aligning with the City’s climate action and equity goals.

GovTechHuman ResourcesInformation TechnologySoftware

Responsibilities

Strategic integration of leadership functions across the Water Bureau and BES

A high-performing executive team delivering core utility services to over 650,000 residents

Cross-cutting policy aligned with Portland’s climate action, racial equity, and justice goals

Major capital programs, including water filtration, sewer modernization, and green infrastructure

A cultural shift rooted in transparency, frontline empowerment, and operational excellence

Constructive labor-management partnerships that foster a positive, safe workplace

Transparent public engagement that centers the voices of historically underserved communities

Utility infrastructure alignment with broader city initiatives

Risk mitigation, emergency preparedness, and climate-adaptive utility planning

Execution of strategic priorities from the DCA for Public Works

Collaboration with the Portland Utility Board for equitable, community-informed decision-making

Qualification

Executive leadership experienceUtility finance expertiseOrganizational transformationCollaboration with labor unionsRacial equity commitmentEnvironmental justice knowledgePolitical acumenCommunity engagementLabor-management collaborationExceptional communication skills

Required

Minimum 7–10 years of executive leadership experience in water, wastewater, stormwater, environmental services, or related public-sector infrastructure

Bachelor's degree in public administration, engineering, environmental policy, or related field; master's degree (e.g., MPA, MBA, MS) strongly preferred

Proven success in leading organizational transformation and unifying siloed teams

Expertise in utility finance, rate setting, and capital delivery within regulatory frameworks (e.g., SDWA, CWA, MS4, UIC)

Strong experience collaborating with labor unions and labor-management committees

Deep commitment to racial equity, environmental justice, and workforce inclusion

Familiarity with city administrator-led government structures and centralized performance accountability models

Exceptional communication and political acumen with the ability to engage media, labor, City Council, regulators, and community partners

Preferred

If you would like to request Veteran's Preference, please submit your Veteran documents (ex, DD214-Member 4, VA Benefit Letter, etc.) by the closing date of the recruitment