Public Utilities Director

Position Closes May 30, 2026 To lead the Public Utilities Department as its next Public Utilities Director , the desirable western NC town of Granite Falls seeks a dynamic, personable, and experienced public works/utility professional. Have demonstrated success leading utility and public works operations, capital projects, and departmental priorities in a resource‑conscious environment. Be a strategic thinker who effectively plans for the long‑term needs of aging infrastructure while supporting continued growth and increasing service demands. Value teamwork, communication, and staff training and development, and be energized by the opportunity to build on a culture of strong morale and collaboration. Be an effective communicator and collaborator known for working cohesively with staff, town leadership, and the community to advance key initiatives and achieve service delivery goals. The Public Utilities Director is highly-skilled and effective in project management, and is responsible for overseeing operations of the town’s infrastructure: Water Treatment Plant with 2.5 million gallons per day capacity; Water Distribution: 70 miles of water mains and three elevated storage tanks that serve 2,300 residential and 300 commercial customers; Wastewater Collection: 52 miles of wastewater pipe; Wastewater Treatment Plant with 0.9 MGD capacity; 19 wastewater pumping stations, 35 miles of streets, and 6 miles of sidewalks. This position is for a service‑minded professional who maintains professionalism under pressure, establishes roots in an organization, invests in the community, and takes pride in providing essential services to community residents. The next Public Utilities Director will have the privilege of strengthening the department’s strategic planning efforts, improving infrastructure systems, and enhancing operational efficiency while maintaining reliable service delivery. About the Organization, Department and Position The Town of Granite Falls operates under a Council‑Manager form of government and is governed by an elected Mayor and six‑member Town Council serving staggered four‑year terms. Guided by its mission “to build community pride and enhance the quality of life for all citizens by providing timely, cost‑effective services delivered honestly, professionally, and respectfully,” the Town nurtures a culture that is focused on service excellence. Granite Falls employs 82 full‑time and part‑time staff along with 63 seasonal staff and delivers a full range of municipal services through departments including administration, police, fire, public works, and parks and recreation. In addition to general government functions, the Town operates enterprise services such as water, sewer, and electric utilities. The adopted FY 2026 operating budget totals approximately $19.4 million (8.4% increase over the prior year) to support strategic priorities and service needs. The Public Utilities Department is responsible for the maintenance and operation of Granite Falls’ critical infrastructure systems. Organized into two primary divisions—Street/Sanitation and Water/Wastewater—the department delivers a wide range of essential services that support daily operations and long‑term community sustainability. It is also responsible for stormwater management, fleet maintenance, capital improvement project support, and emergency response related to public infrastructure. Reporting to the Town Manager, the Public Utilities Director oversees a department of 22 employees, including 20 full‑time and 2 part‑time staff, and supervises four direct reports: the Street Crew Leader, Water and Sewer Crew Leader, Water Treatment Plant Supervisor, and Wastewater Treatment Plant Supervisor. The Director leads capital improvement planning and execution, including development and annual updates to the town’s 5–10‑year Capital Improvement Plan, and provides leadership for major operational and system improvements across the department. Responsibilities include establishing performance goals; developing and managing operating and capital budgets; ensuring staff are trained and supported to work safely and efficiently; overseeing field operations, equipment and fleet management, and service delivery; coordinating with other town departments, contractors, engineers, and vendors on infrastructure projects; prioritizing capital needs and presenting funding requests to the Town Manager and Town Council; ensuring compliance with applicable state and federal regulations; recommending policies and procedures; and responding to inquiries from the public and Town Council. Qualifications Required Graduation from an accredited college with a bachelor’s degree in civil or environmental engineering, water resources management, public administration, business management, or a related field. Three to five years of progressively responsible leadership or supervisory experience in public works, utilities, or a related field. Considerable experience with publicly owned and operated utility and/or public works systems, including supervision in maintenance and construction of streets, storm drainage systems, water distribution, and sewer collection systems, or an equivalent of experience and education; prior local government experience is preferred. Possession of a valid North Carolina Class C Driver’s License; a commercial Driver’s License is preferred. Grade B Water Distribution Certification and a Grade II Sewer Collection System Operator Certification or ability to obtain both within one year of employment; this position is designated as safety sensitive in accordance with North Carolina Department of Transportation regulations. Salary and Benefits The expected hiring range for the position is $107,000–$110,000, with a full salary range of $89,678–$125,550 depending on qualifications. A 5% pay increase is provided upon successful completion of six months of service. The town provides a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, long‑term disability, and life insurance; Local Government Employees Retirement System contributions; annual vacation, sick leave, and paid holidays. Additional benefits include bereavement, education reimbursement, and longevity pay. There is no residency requirement for this position; however, the selected candidate must live within 50 miles of town limits to be eligible for a take‑home vehicle. Relocation expenses will be negotiated for the selected candidate if applicable. The Town of Granite Falls, NC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The recruitment and selection process is being managed by Developmental Associates, LLC. #J-18808-Ljbffr The Solid Waste Association of North America