Director of Operations

Are you a strategic leader with a passion for infrastructure, operational excellence, and public service? The Town of Westlock is looking for a dynamic Director of Operations to join our Senior Leadership Team.

Located just under an hour northwest of Edmonton, Westlock is a thriving rural hub where ambition and collaboration thrive. With a solid foundation and a clear vision for the future, we invite you to help us build on the momentum and shape what comes next.

The Opportunity

The Town of Westlock is seeking an experienced and forward-thinking Director of Operations to lead the planning, delivery, and oversight of municipal infrastructure and operational services. Reporting directly to the Chief Administrative Officer, this senior leadership role combines strategic planning with the management of essential municipal services, including Public Works, Utilities, Parks and Open Spaces, roads, fleet, and infrastructure.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide leadership, supervision, and direction to Operations, Utilities, and Parks staff, fostering a culture of accountability, teamwork, and safety.
• Oversee the operation, maintenance, and continuous improvement of municipal infrastructure, utilities, roads, parks, and fleet.
• Lead long-term infrastructure planning, asset management, and capital replacement programs to support the Town's sustainability and future growth.
• Oversee the selection, coordination, and management of external contractors and service providers, ensuring compliance with contractual requirements, budgets, timelines, quality standards, and health and safety requirements.
• Develop and manage departmental budgets, monitor expenditures, and identify alternate funding opportunities, including grants.
• Build and maintain positive working relationships with Council, residents, developers, contractors, government agencies, and regional partners.
• Identify and pursue alternate funding opportunities, including grants, to support infrastructure improvements and capital initiatives.
• Prepare and deliver reports, recommendations, and presentations to Council and senior management to support informed decision-making.
• Contribute to corporate strategic planning, policy development, and organizational initiatives as a member of the Senior Leadership Team.

Qualifications

• Degree or diploma in Engineering, Infrastructure Management, or a related discipline.
• Minimum four (4) years of related work experience and five (5) years in a municipal supervisory capacity.
• Progressive municipal leadership experience, preferably in infrastructure, public works, engineering, or utilities.
• Strong knowledge of municipal operations, legislation, asset management, and infrastructure planning.
• Demonstrated experience managing capital projects, operational budgets, and multidisciplinary teams.
• Excellent leadership, communication, problem-solving, and relationship-building skills.
• Commitment to fiscal accountability, workplace safety, innovation, and service excellence

Why Westlock?

Westlock offers the best of both worlds—rural charm and community spirit with quick access to major urban amenities. This role offers the opportunity to make a lasting impact on the future of Westlock by guiding infrastructure investment, strengthening essential municipal services, and supporting sustainable community growth.

We're looking for a leader who combines strategic vision with practical operational expertise— someone who inspires staff, builds strong partnerships, and takes pride in delivering safe, efficient, and reliable municipal services.

The Town of Westlock offers a competitive salary range of $132,309 to $162,724 and excellent employee benefit program, including the Local Authorities Pension Plan (LAPP). Satisfactory background screening is required, including a criminal record check and five-year driver's abstract upon acceptance of the position.

Questions: Please call Simone Wiley, Chief Administrative Officer, 780-349-4444.