Hybrid Deputy Public Works Director presso Village of Buffalo Grove, IL

About the Department

Nestled in the northwest Chicago suburbs, the vibrant Village of Buffalo Grove perfectly blends a commitment to knowledge with a focus on creating the best life for all residents. This thoughtful approach can best be described as Smart. With Heart. One of Buffalo Grove’s most valued qualities is its dedication to well-planned infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and reliable services that enhance residents’ daily lives. 

Buffalo Grove is in the midst of significant development and capital improvements, including the construction of a Fire Station rebuild, a comprehensive remodel of an existing Fire Station, and ongoing investments in roads, water systems, and facilities through the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) and the Infrastructure Modernization Program (IMP)—a transformative, multi-year plan to modernize and maintain community assets. 

We are seeking an experienced and forward-thinking Deputy Director of Public Works to help lead this important work, overseeing daily operations while driving the successful delivery of high-profile capital projects

Position Duties

Under the general direction of the Director of Public Works, the Deputy Director serves as a key member of the department’s leadership team. This position manages multiple operational divisions—including Streets & Forestry, Fleet & Building Maintenance, Water & Sewer, and Drainage—while overseeing critical capital initiatives within the CIP. The Deputy Director plays a vital role in ensuring operational excellence, regulatory compliance, and the effective delivery of services to Buffalo Grove residents. 

About the role

Under the general direction of the Director of Public Works, the Deputy Director serves as a key member of the department’s leadership team. This position manages multiple operational divisions—including Streets & Forestry, Fleet & Building Maintenance, Water & Sewer, and Drainage—while overseeing critical capital initiatives within the CIP. The Deputy Director plays a vital role in ensuring operational excellence, regulatory compliance, and the effective delivery of services to Buffalo Grove residents. 

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee operations for the Streets & Forestry, Fleet & Building Maintenance, and Water & Sewer sections, including Drainage. 
• Manage the Capital Improvement Program, including long-range planning, annual project prioritization, budgeting, and contract administration. 
• Coordinate closely with the Village Engineer on road programs, development projects, and the Infrastructure Modernization Program. 
• Ensure regulatory compliance with Federal and Illinois EPA, MWRDGC, IDOT, and LCSMC in water and wastewater operations. 
• Supervise division superintendents, the Management Analyst, and Administrative staff; provide leadership, mentoring, and professional development. 
• Prepare and present reports, project updates, and recommendations to the Village Board and committees. 
• Manage budgets, monitor expenditures, and ensure fiscal responsibility in both operations and capital projects. 
• Oversee procurement processes, train staff on purchasing policies, and ensure compliance across all Public Works functions. 
• Respond to emergency situations as part of a 24/7 on-call rotation, coordinating restoration of essential services. 
• Foster positive relationships with residents, contractors, partner agencies, and other stakeholders.

Minimum Qualifications

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Civil Engineering, or related field (Master’s degree preferred). 
• Minimum of five (5) years of experience in a public works department or related industry, including at least three (3) years in a supervisory role. 
• Strong knowledge of municipal operations, public works administration, and capital project management. 
• Proven experience with budgets, contract administration, and regulatory compliance. 
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. 

Other Qualifications

Compensation & Benefits
Salary range: $114,470.72 - $170,599.52, commensurate with experience, plus an excellent benefits package and participation in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund. 

How to Apply 
Apply online at vbg.org. Please attach a cover letter and resume to your application. The position will remain open until filled, with the first review of applicants the week of September 22nd. 

The Village of Buffalo Grove is an Equal Opportunity Employer.