Public Works Director

PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR

City of Blaine, WA

First Review: November 7, 2025

Salary Range: $156,000 - $168,300 annually DOQ

View the Invitation to Apply

Job Description

Benefits:

Participation in WA State Retirement

Health benefits at 90-percent

Vision care benefits at 100-percent

Dental benefits at 100-percent

5% Deferred Compensation Contribution (in addition to base pay)

$350 monthly towards HRA VEBA (the city contributes $250, and the employee contributes $100)

12 paid holidays (11 plus 1 floating)

26 paid vacation days

3 paid administrative leave days

12 annual sick leave days

No WA state income tax

32 hour work week

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The City of Blaine, WA, is seeking a Public Works Director for the northernmost city along U.S. Interstate 5, home to the Peace Arch Border Crossing into Canada. Located 110 miles north of Seattle overlooking the Salish Sea, Blaine serves as both a key international gateway and a charming waterfront community.

THE CITY OF BLAINE

Incorporated in 1890, the City of Blaine serves a population of approximately 6,500 across 5 square miles with a 2025 budget of $54 million and a team of 63 FTEs. Departments include Administration, Community Development, Finance, Municipal Court, Police, and Public Works. The City operates under the Council-Manager form of government with a seven-member City Council. Michael Harmon has been serving as City Manager since 2023.

THE PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR

Reporting to the City Manager, the Public Works Director is responsible for the leadership and management of the City's Public Works Department. Key responsibilities include planning, budgeting, personnel performance, contractor coordination, and grant application and administration. The Director also serves as a member of the City's leadership team, attending City Council and other designated activities and meetings. Reporting to the Public Works Director are the Assistant Public Works Director, Project Manager, and Electrical Foreman.

THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT

The Public Works Department is responsible for the operation and maintenance of all City utilities (Water, Wastewater, Stormwater, Electrical services) as well as repair and maintenance of streets and public facilities. The Department operates with a 2025 budget of $43 million (including capital expenditures) and a team of 31 FTEs. Public Works divisions include Cemetery, Electrical Power and Lighting, Fleet, Parks, Public Facilities, Storm Water Management, Streets, Wastewater Collection and Treatment, Water Storage and Distribution, Water Treatment.

For questions on this position, please contact:

Brenda Gabbitas

GMP Consultants