CITY OF CANBY
PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
APPLICATIONS DUE THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8th
The City of Canby, Oregon (population 19,326) is recruiting its next Public Works Director.
Joining the City at an important time, the Public Works Director is a key member of the City Management Team and will be well positioned to build momentum and translate long-range planning into visible results for the community, making a lasting impact on Canby’s infrastructure and quality of life. The next Public Works Director will have the opportunity to lead a skilled and dedicated Public Works team and have an important role in bringing Public Works functions together, strengthening connections across the organization, and supporting a positive and cohesive Department culture.
Reporting to the City Administrator, the Public Works Director oversees the City’s infrastructure including streets, street lighting, storm drainage, parks, building maintenance, Zion Memorial Cemetery, and the Wastewater Treatment Plant. The Director plays a critical role in shaping long-term planning, asset management, and capital improvement plans for the City, and is a key contributor to the City’s management team. The position supervises approximately 25 FTE positions and the department manages approximately 70 miles of roadway and 220 acres of park and open green space. Responsibilities also include the development and management of budgets, ensuring compliance with state and federal standards, and representing the department at public meetings and intergovernmental collaborations.
The City of Canby, Oregon is in the Willamette Valley, nestled between Salem and Portland, and is framed by natural scenic beauty including the Willamette and Molalla Rivers. Its agricultural industry earned Canby the nickname “Oregon Garden’s Spot,” the City’s strong economic base continues to bring new development and opportunities to the area. Home to a welcoming and active community, and as the second oldest city in Clackamas County, the City looks to the future while honoring its history. Offering a highly sought blend of urban and rural life, Canby is rich in community and healthy commerce.
The ideal candidate possesses and has demonstrated the following attributes:
Experienced, dedicated, and collaborative public servant
Broad knowledge and expertise in public works operations to support continued modernization of operational approaches
Understanding of civil engineering
Excellent staff management and team building skills
Strong, strategic short-and long-term planning
Skills to support effective and proactive financial management
Experience with procurement and contract management
Commitment to maintain and enhance inter-agency working relationships
Accessible, consistent, and respectful communication style
A willingness to be visible in the community, with an appreciation of Canby
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
A bachelor’s degree in public or business administration or a related field, and at least five (5) years of public works experience including at least two (2) years of supervisory experience as a Public Works Director or Supervisor is required. Three (3) to five (5) years of experience in a municipal Public Works Director or Supervisor or similar management position, and a background in engineering (preferably civil) is preferred. The ability to obtain a Collections Operator III certification is attractive, and a valid Oregon driver’s license with an acceptable driving record is required.
A satisfactory combination of education, experience, and training that demonstrates the required knowledge, skills, and abilities will be considered.
Compensation is $129,192 - $171,600 (DOQ/DOE) plus excellent benefits.
HOW TO APPLY:
To be considered, candidates must email the following application materials to emily@jensenstrategies.com, no later than Thursday, October 8, 2026, as separate attachments:
(1) a concise cover letter summarizing relevant background and qualifications for the position;
(2) a resume;
(3) a Supplemental Application Form;
and if applicable
(4) Veterans Only: a completed and signed Oregon Veteran’s Preference form with supporting documentation (DD-214 or DD-215). (Please do not submit a Veterans’ Preference Form if you are not a veteran)
Questions may be directed to:
Emily Rehder
(503) 477-5615
The City of Canby is an Equal Opportunity Employer.