Public Works Director/City Engineer

Public Works Director/City Engineer

The City of Malibu invites applications for Public Works Director/City Engineer Salary Range: $214,037 - $279,270 In-person interviews will take place on June 17, 2026

The Public Works Director/City Engineer provides executive-level leadership and strategic direction for the Public Works Department, overseeing a broad portfolio of essential municipal services and infrastructure programs. This position is responsible for ensuring the effective planning, coordination, and delivery of daily operations and long-term initiatives that support the City's infrastructure and service goals.

Key responsibilities include oversight of engineering services; capital improvement program planning, design, and construction; transportation systems; streets and traffic control; floodplain management; solid waste and recycling programs; stormwater and wastewater operations; and the administration of assessment districts. The Director also leads the maintenance and management of City facilities, equipment, and infrastructure.

This role requires a high degree of professional judgment and leadership, including the negotiation and administration of complex contracts, as well as the development of innovative solutions to a wide range of administrative, fiscal, and special projects.

Education and Experience: Any combination of training and experience which would provide the required knowledge, skills and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:

Education: Equivalent to a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in civil engineering or a related field.

Experience: Eight (8) years of increasing responsible civil engineering or public works construction management experience, including four (4) years of administrative and management experience.

Licenses and Certifications:

• Possession of a valid California Driver's License and a satisfactory driving record, to be maintained throughout employment.
• Possession of a valid California registration as a Professional Engineer (PE), to be maintained throughout employment.
• A professional Traffic Engineer is highly desirable.

The ideal candidate is a strategic, results-driven executive leader with a strong foundation in municipal public works operations, engineering principles, and public administration. This individual brings a balance of technical expertise, organizational leadership, and political acumen to effectively guide the Public Works Department in delivering high-quality infrastructure and services aligned with the City's mission and policy direction.

To apply for this exceptional career opportunity, please complete and submit an online application at and attach your cover letter, current resume, and any additional materials for consideration by the filing deadline of May 31, 2026. Application Evaluation All relevant work experience, training, and education must be included to determine eligibility. Interview Process Following a structured evaluation of the applications, the most qualified candidates will be invited to a panel interview scheduled on June 17, 2026. The interviews may be consolidated into one process or expanded into multiple interviews contingent upon the size and quantity of the candidate pool. Selected candidates must attend the interview in-person (no exceptions).

Salary will be commensurate with qualifications. The City also offers an attractive benefits package, which includes:

• Retirement: 2% at 55 formula for Classic CalPERS members (City pays employee contribution). New member formula is 2% at 62 (employee contribution is the rate prescribed by CalPERS in accordance with Government Code 7522.30 – currently 8.25%). The City does not contribute to Social Security
• Deferred Compensation: The City contributes $250 per month to a qualified Deferred Compensation Plan
• Vacation: Starting at 120 hours per year, increasing to 160 hours beginning the 11th year of service. A portion of vacation leave can be cashed out at the applicable accrual year for qualifying employees
• Sick Leave: 96 hours accrued per year. A portion of sick leave accrued but not used can be cashed out for qualifying employees. A portion of sick leave can be cashed out at the applicable accrual year for qualifying employees
• Vacation and sick leave cash out provision
• Holidays: 9 paid holidays plus paid Winter Break (December 24 - January 1)
• Administrative Leave: 54 hours of administrative leave each fiscal year
• Health Insurance: CalPERS offers a selection of health plans. City provides 100% paid premiums-coverage for employees and eligible dependents up to the PERS Platinum PPO health plan level
• Dental and Vision: 100% premium coverage for employees and eligible dependents
• Life Insurance: Coverage equal to employee's annual salary, up to a maximum of $175,000
• Tuition Reimbursement: Up to $2,500 maximum reimbursement each fiscal year
• Long Term/Short Term Disability Coverage
• Employee Assistance Program
• The City offers a 9/80 work schedule
• Employees have the option to sign up with the Ventura County Credit Union