The City of Wilmington, Illinois, is seeking an experienced, collaborative, and forward-thinking professional to serve as its next Public Works Director. Located in southern Will County, approximately 50 miles southwest of Chicago and 15 miles south of Joliet, Wilmington is a growing community of nearly 6,000 residents that offers an exceptional quality of life. Nestled along historic Route 66 and the Kankakee River, Wilmington features a vibrant downtown, outstanding parks and recreational amenities, highly regarded schools, expanding industrial and commercial development, and a strong sense of community.

Reporting directly to the City Administrator, the Public Works Director serves as the executive leader of the Public Works Department and is responsible for planning, directing, organizing, and managing the City's public infrastructure, utilities, facilities, fleet, and public works operations. The Director provides strategic leadership for the department while overseeing daily operations, capital improvement planning, budget development and administration, personnel management, regulatory compliance, and emergency response activities.
The department consists of 16 full-time employees, including:
• 6 Streets and Public Property employees
• 6 Water Division employees
• 4 Wastewater Division employees
The successful candidate will be an approachable, service-oriented leader with demonstrated success building high-performing teams and fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement. The Director will be expected to:
• Lead and mentor department staff.
• Develop and administer departmental operating and capital budgets.
• Plan and oversee capital improvement projects.
• Work collaboratively with elected officials, department directors, engineers, contractors, regulatory agencies, and the public.
• Respond effectively to emergencies and critical infrastructure issues.
• Deliver exceptional customer service while maintaining high standards of public service.
Minimum Qualifications
• Five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in public works, utilities, municipal engineering, or a closely related field.
• At least three (3) years of supervisory or management experience.
• Demonstrated experience in budget preparation and administration.
• Experience managing public infrastructure or utility operations.
• Valid Illinois driver's license or ability to obtain one within a reasonable period after appointment.
Preferred Qualifications
• Bachelor's degree in Public Administration, Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field.
• Illinois Class A Water Operator License.
• Illinois Class 1 Wastewater Operator License.
• Commercial Driver's License (CDL).
Compensation and Benefits
The anticipated salary range is $120,000 to $140,000, depending on qualifications and experience.
The City offers a competitive benefits package that includes:
• IMRF participation
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Wellness program
• Paid vacation, sick leave, personal leave, and holidays
• Tuition reimbursement
• Basic and optional life insurance