Description
The City of Gastonia is seeking an exceptional Director of Public Utilities to provide strategic leadership in shaping the future of the City’s essential services and Two Rivers Utilities operations.
As Director of Public Utilities, you will oversee Gastonia's water, wastewater, and stormwater systems, leading 147 employees and managing a $66M FY 2026 budget. The role supports three wastewater plants, one water plant, and 40,000 meters serving over 100,000 residents - championing innovation, sustainability, and reliable service through strong regional partnerships.
CAREER DEFINING OPPORTUNITY
Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI)
Lead a transformative, citywide smart-utility initiative modernizing how water and electric services are delivered. This multi-year AMI program replaces all meters with advanced technology, introduces a new wireless communications network, and integrates real-time data into billing-improving efficiency, accuracy, and customer service. (2025-2027, $31M)
Southeast Utility Extension Project
Help shape Gastonia's future growth through a major regional infrastructure expansion extending water and sewer service to previously unserved areas. This project establishes the backbone for long-term development, strengthens regional partnerships, and directly improves quality of life for residents and businesses. ($54M)
Read more about this position by viewing the Director of Public Utilities job brochure here.
Requirements
The essential functions listed below are those that represent the majority of the time spent working in this class. Management may assign additional functions related to the type of work of the class as necessary.
- Supervises, directs, and evaluates assigned staff, processing employee concerns and problems, directing work, counseling, disciplining, and completing employee performance appraisals.
- Coordinates, assigns and reviews work and establishes work schedules; maintains standards; monitors status of work in progress; inspects completed work assignments; answers questions; gives advice and direction as needed.
- Manages and directs overall public utility department operations.
- Directs, develops, and leads a team of employees responsible for the water and sewer utilities and stormwater administration.
- Ensures compliance to Local/State/Federal Regulatory requirements.
- Develops and manages operational and capital project budgets, short and long-range planning needs, and utility rate reviews and recommendations.
- Administers and manages complex construction projects, prepares and reviews project contracts, analyzes proposed legislation and administrative regulation for impacts on utility.
- Completes assigned tasks accurately and within established deadlines; provides timely updates regarding significant operational, financial, regulatory, or personnel issues; plans and directs public relations outreach.
- Provides efficient and effective service to customers by offering suggestions and directing or participating as an active team member.
- Represents the utility by preparing and presenting at City Council meetings, committee meetings , and other related meetings and events.
- Develops and implements goals, objectives, policies, procedures and work standards for the department.
- Performs related work as assigned.
