Ventura County Public Works Agency

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Salary: $169,558 – $237,382 Annually, plus benefits

We are seeking a forward-thinking executive who is passionate about driving change and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. If you’re ready to bring fresh ideas, lead with vision, and make a positive impact on our community, we want to hear from you! 

 

The County of Ventura

Ventura County offers an exceptional quality of life, perfectly balancing natural beauty and modern convenience. With its stunning coastline, rolling hills, and sweeping views of the Channel Islands, the area is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re into hiking, surfing, or simply soaking in the panoramic vistas, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy. The Mediterranean climate is another major draw, with an average annual temperature of 74 degrees, ensuring year-round comfort for residents. Families will also appreciate the county’s top-tier educational opportunities, with both highly-rated public schools and renowned private institutions. Ventura County blends small-town charm with easy access to big-city amenities, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a fulfilling, well-rounded lifestyle. Ventura County is a “general law” county, governed by a five-member, elected-by-district Board of Supervisors. The Supervisors appoint a County Executive Officer (CEO) to oversee the County budget, day-to-day operations, and to advise, assist, and act as an agent for the Board of Supervisors in all matters under the Board’s jurisdiction. County operations have an operating budget of approximately $3.23 billion with a staffing allocation of over 10,000 employees.

The Public Works Agency

The County of Ventura’s Public Works Agency (PWA) is comprised of five departments each headed by a department director: Central Services, Engineering Services, Roads and Transportation, Water and Sanitation, and Watershed Protection. Collectively, the five departments deliver efficient, responsive, and cost effective public works services that protect and enhance the safety, health, and quality of life in Ventura County. PWA has an annual operating budget of $350 million and staff of 416 full-time employees. The Agency holds direct oversight and responsibility for roads, dams, bridges, channels and levees, water main pipes, sewer pipelines, traffic signals, catch basins or storm drain inlets, and culverts. To learn more about the County of Ventura’s Public Works Agency, please visit publicworks.venturacounty.gov

The Position

Under administrative direction of the Assistant Director, Public Works Agency, the Director of Watershed Protection manages an annual operating budget of $86 million and approximately 130 employees in four divisions: Design & Construction, Operations & Maintenance, Planning & Permits, and Water Resources. The ideal candidate will be a collaborative, results oriented leader with experience in complex long- range planning, program development, and capital projects development. The successful candidate will have a proven track record in leading large departments, multidisciplinary teams and will have political acumen to navigate a wide range of elected and appointed officials at all levels of government as well as the community at large. Experience in Lean Six Sigma, Continuous Process Improvement, or similar is desirable. The Director of Watershed Protection is an at-will position which is exempt from the provisions of the Civil Service Ordinance.

Typical Qualifications

Progressively responsible experience related to watershed management, which has led to the acquisition of the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. The required knowledge, skills, and abilities are typically obtained by completion of a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering and two (2) years managing division at a level equivalent to a Deputy Director – Public Works Agency or Senior Engineering Manager. Required: 

  • Registration as a Professional Engineer in the State of California in civil engineering.
    • An applicant possessing an out-of-state registration is eligible for hire, however, must obtain California registration within 18 months of employment. 
  • Possession and maintenance of a valid driver license

Recruitment Process

To apply for this exceptional and unique career opportunity, please do one of the following:

Submissions must include relevant work experience, training, and education in order for the reviewer to properly assess qualifications.

Equal Employment Opportunity
The County of Ventura is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.

Contact Information

For further information about the recruitment, please contact Michelle Antonetty by email at Michelle.Antonetty@venturacounty.gov or by telephone at (805) 477-7260

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