Director of Public Works – Modesto, CA

Client: City of Modesto, California
Position: Director of Public Works
Closing Date: March 30, 2026

Additional Information: 

• Client Website

The City of Modesto is recruiting nationally for a highly experienced professional to manage a large, full-service public works department. The Director of Public Works is an at-will, senior executive-level position and will be directly responsible for a Department of approximately 230 FTEs, an operations budget of over $87 million, and an on-going capital projects budget of approximately $10.5 million. The Public Works Department is responsible for building, operating, and maintaining a wide variety of services that improve the quality of life in Modesto, including contributing in these key areas: airport; capital projects; electrical service; facilities; fleet; forestry; infrastructure improvements; and streets and sidewalks. The successful candidate will have a broad background across all aspects of public works operations and a strong track record of managing a multifaceted department.

Requires a Bachelor’s degree and 7 years of increasingly responsible public works experience, including 3 years of administrative and management responsibility. A Master’s degree is considered a plus. Public works experience with a municipal government or public agency is essential for success in this position. Candidates with current or recent private-sector experience are strongly encouraged to apply if their career history includes prior public-sector experience. Professional registration as a licensed professional civil engineer in the State of California is desirable but not mandatory.

The City is offering a competitive executive salary range of $184,163 to $239,408 (DOQ) plus education incentive (5% of salary for Master’s Degree and 2.5% of salary for Bachelor’s Degree) along with a $400 per month car allowance. The Director of Public Works will also receive an excellent benefits package, including CalPERS retirement.

Interested candidates should apply by submitting a compelling cover letter, comprehensive resume, and professional references to apply@ralphandersen.com. Candidates are encouraged to submit early in the process, before Monday, March 30, 2026. Confidential inquiries are welcome and should be directed to Ms. Heather Renschler, Project Director, Ralph Andersen & Associates, at (916) 630-4900. Alternatively, to schedule an introductory discussion with the Project Director, send an email to scheduling@ralphandersen.com.