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Job Title


Director of Public Works and Engineering


Company : Municipality of West Grey


Location : Varney, Ontario


Created : 2026-02-06


Job Type : Full Time


Job Description

Director of Public Works and EngineeringPosition: Director of Public Works and EngineeringCategory: Permanent Full-Time, 35 hours a weekWage: Pay Band 16, $122,878-$143,750 annuallyApplications are now being accepted for a permanent full-time position of Director of Public Works and Engineering, an existing vacancy. Deadline for applications: Friday, January 23, 2026, at 3:00 p.m.About the Municipality of West GreyWith a population of over 13,500 the Municipality of West Grey is the largest geographic municipality in Grey County (876 square kilometres), with the River Styx and Rocky Saugeen, Beatty Saugeen and South Saugeen Rivers being the connecting links between our rural communities of Elmwood, Durham, Neustadt and Ayton.The Municipality delivers key services to our fast-growing population including: two water systems; three landfill sites; three library branches; several community centres, arenas and parks; three fire stations; West Grey Police Services; 114 bridges; 700+ kilometres of roads and 23+ kilometres of sidewalks.Job OverviewReporting to the CAO, the Director of Public Works and Engineering is a key member of the senior management team, responsible for the leadership, planning, organization, and oversight of all public infrastructure, and capital and development engineering related functions. This position plays a critical role in ensuring sustainability, safety, and efficient operations and maintenance of core services and assets, including roads, bridges, water and wastewater systems, and stormwater infrastructure.The Director manages the Viola service agreement for water and wastewater services, provides oversight on new development, and leads the procurement process for capital projects and contracted services. This role is key in supporting strategic growth, capital planning and service delivery while ensuring compliance with provincial regulations and alignment with Council-approved priorities and budgets.Major ResponsibilitiesLeadership & ManagementProvides strategic leadership to the Public Works and Engineering department, ensuring effective planning, budgeting, and delivery of services.Responsible for staff recruitment, selection, performance management, training and development, promotions and succession planning, and health and safety within the department.Roads and Infrastructure ManagementOversees the maintenance and rehabilitation of roads, bridges, culverts, stormwater systems and related infrastructure.Manages the upkeep and improvement of municipal buildings.Supports the development and implementation of long-term Master Plans and asset management plans as part of the senior management team.Ensures timely responses to infrastructure failures, emergencies, and weather related events.Facilitates the municipal drain evaluations and works through contracted services.Oversees the planning, execution, and coordination of snow plowing operations. Develops and implements snow removal strategies.Water & Wastewater ServicesAdministers and oversees the Viola service agreement for water and wastewater operations, ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements and performance standards.Monitors system performance and regulatory compliance, and coordinates capital and operational improvements with Viola.Reviews Viola sampling reports and Ministry of the Environment, Conservation, and Parks (MECP) inspection reports including audits.Liaises with Viola and Overall Responsible Operation (ORO) to facilitate the Municipality's Drinking Water Quality Management System (DWQMS).Provides oversight of municipal and contracted engineering services, including design, review, and inspection of infrastructure projects.Reviews engineering submissions from developers and consultants to ensure alignment with municipal standards and long-term planning objectives. Collaborates with Planning and Building department to support responsible new development and subdivision growth.Ensures new developments are integrated into the municipal infrastructure network efficiently and sustainably.Oversees and approves Engineering and Development standards documents.Fleet ManagementOversees the acquisition, maintenance, replacement, and tracking of the municipal vehicle and equipment fleet.Develops and manages a fleet lifecycle strategy to ensure reliability, safety, and cost-effectiveness.Maintains compliance with safety inspections, operator training, and maintenance records.Procurement & Contract ManagementLeads the preparation, issuance, and evaluation of Requests for Proposals, Requests for Quotation, and Tenders related to public works and engineering services.Ensures procurement follows applicable legislation, municipal policies, and best practices.Manages consultant and contractor performance throughout project lifecycles, from award through to completion.Budgeting & Financial ManagementDevelops, monitors, and manages departmental annual operating and capital budgets, ensuring cost-effective use of municipal resources.Identifies and pursues funding opportunities including grants and partnerships.Policy, Compliance & ReportingEnsures departmental compliance with all relevant provincial legislation, standards, and municipal by-laws.Develops and implements policies and procedures related to public works and engineering services.Prepares technical reports, Council recommendations, capital plans, and budget forecasts.Stakeholder & Council EngagementServes as key advisor to the CAO and Council on infrastructure, capital planning, and service delivery.Attends and presents at Council and Committee meetings as required. Responds to public inquiries, concerns, and service requests in a professional and timely manner.Participates on interdepartmental and cross-jurisdictional committees and working groups including the Municipality's Emergency Response Team.Knowledge, Training and QualificationsCompletion of post-secondary education Civil Engineering or related discipline. Certified Engineering Technologist (C.E.T.) or Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) designation.Minimum 7-10 years of progressive experience of municipal public works or engineering including senior leadership experience.Certification under the Ontario Good Roads Association is an asset.Thorough knowledge of municipal infrastructure systems, engineering practices, fleet operations, asset management, and project management.Strong understanding of applicable legislation such as Safe Drinking Water Act, Drainage Act, Water Resources Act, Highway Traffic Act, Occupational Health and Safety Act, and Municipal Act.Proven ability to lead, motivate and manage multidisciplinary teams.Strong strategic planning, decision making, and conflict resolution skills. Experience managing budgets, contracts, and municipal capital projects. Excellent communication skills, including report writing and public speaking. Ability to build and maintain effective relationships with elected officials, staff, stakeholders, and the public.Skilled in managing complex and politically sensitive issues with diplomacy and professionalism.Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.Strong analytical, critical thinking and problem-solving capabilities.High attention to detail and commitment to accuracy and compliance.Proficiency in GIS, AutoCAD and asset management software is considered an asset.Valid Ontario Class G Driver's Licence with a personal vehicle for business use.Provide satisfactory Criminal Records Check upon hire.Working ConditionsThis position is primarily based in a climate-controlled office environment, with regular work hours being Monday to Friday. This position also has some job functions which take place outdoors in a variety of weather conditions, including visits to municipal facilities, construction projects, and development sites. There may be times when extended working hours are necessary to attend evening council and committee meetings, as required. This role requires frequent interaction with the public, and the incumbent should be prepared to deal with occasional stressful encounters. Frequent computer work with a need for visual and mental concentration is required.Interested individuals having these qualifications are encouraged to email a cover letter and resume to: [email protected]#J-18808-Ljbffr