Posted: 10/1/25
Salary:  $77,000-$107,000
Location: Cascade Locks, OR

Application Deadline: October 31st, 2025

About the City of Cascade Locks

Nestled in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge, Cascade Locks is a vibrant community dedicated to excellence in public service and innovation. We are seeking a dynamic leader to join our team as the next Utilities Director.

Position Overview

As the Utilities Director, you will manage, coordinate, and direct the operations, staff, and business activities of the City’s Public Works and Electric departments. Reporting to the City Administrator, you’ll play a pivotal role in planning, construction, operation, repair, maintenance, and replacement of City infrastructure—including electric, street, water, wastewater, storm drainage, fleet, parks, and facilities. You will lead and supervise personnel in both the Public Works and Electric Departments, ensuring effective team management and operational excellence.

You will oversee all departmental operations, including task prioritization, scheduling, and progress tracking. Your responsibilities include developing and enforcing departmental goals, policies, procedures, and work standards, as well as preparing and monitoring budgets and financial plans to support the City’s strategic objectives. Serving as the primary liaison between the departments and City leadership, you will coordinate construction and repair projects, manage contracts, and ensure regulatory compliance. Additionally, you will deliver presentations and communicate updates to the City Council, public groups, and media, evaluate legislative and regulatory changes for administrative impact, and promote departmental efficiency and customer service excellence throughout all operations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Business, Public Administration, or related field
• Minimum three years’ experience in Public Works, Electric Utilities, Capital Improvement projects, or department-level management
• Knowledge of utility rate setting, operations, laws and regulations, quality standards, and safety practices
• Strong leadership, analytical, and communication skills
• Ability to present complex issues to City Council and engage with the public
• Commitment to continuous improvement and professional development

How to Apply:

Submit your application, resume, and cover letter to the City Administrator’s office at jbennett@cascade-locks.or.us. For more information, visit our website or contact Human Resources at kwoosley@cascade-locks.or.us. Applications can be found at https://www.cascade-locks.or.us/vertical/sites/%7BCBA69777-87EC-4CCE-94AE-A171F7FE7A86%7D/uploads/EMPLOYMENT_APPLICATION_CITY_2025_UPDATED.pdf