Public Service Director - Jefferson Township, Franklin County

Public Service Director
Jefferson Township, Franklin County

Jefferson Township, Franklin County is seeking an experienced and dynamic Public Service Director to provide executive leadership, strategic direction, and administrative oversight for the Township's Public Service Department. The position brings a strong emphasis on delivering responsive, high quality customer service to Township residents.

The Director is responsible for the planning, maintenance, and continuous improvement of Township infrastructure and public assets, including roads and rights-of-way, drainage and stormwater systems, parks and open spaces, cemeteries, and Township facilities, ensuring services are delivered efficiently, safety, and with a resident-focused approach.

Serving as a key advisor to the Township Administrator and Board of Trustees, the Director provides expertise on public infrastructure matters and represents the Township in coordination with county, regional, and state agencies. While the role is primarily administrative and strategic in nature, the Director must maintain the operational competence and required licensure to perform field work alongside staff when needed, modeling a commitment to service excellence and ensuring effective service delivery and continuity of operations.

For more information, view the Public Service Director Recruiting Brochure. 

To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter by March 22, 2026 to Assistant Township Administrator Kelly Kiener at kkiener@jeffersontownship.org.

Salary range for the position is $82,198 to $123,297 annually and the position is exempt. The Township offers competitive benefits including medical, pharmacy, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance; 12 paid holidays, paid vacation and sick leave; tuition reimbursement; and longevity bonus after 5 years of service. Employees participate in the Ohio Public Employees Retirement System (OPERS) with 10% employee contribution and 14% employer contribution.

Responsibilities

• Prepares and administers the department’s annual budget and appropriations, including operating and capital investments.
• Establishes and prioritizes annual maintenance programs, including pavement resurfacing, curb repair, crack seal, and culvert repair.
• Provides leadership and directs department activities, including planning, resource allocation, and emergency response.
• Develops and implements department goals, objectives, policies, procedures, and service standards.
• Inspects existing and new infrastructure, assists residents with concerns, and identifies solutions.

Qualifications

• Preferred: Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Public/Business Administration, or a closely related field; and a minimum of seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in public works; state, county, municipal, or township service operations; or infrastructure management, including at least three (3) years in management.
• Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.
• The successful candidate must possess or be able to obtain an Ohio Class B commercial driver’s license and DOT medical card within six months of hire.

Key Characteristics

• Demonstrates professionalism, accountability, and respect, while fostering a collaborative, high-performing team environment. Builds trust through consistent decision-making, ethical conduct, and support of staff development and retention.
• Applies sound judgment in a dynamic environment, challenges outdated practices, and implements practical, forward-thinking solutions aligned with long-term Township goals.
• Communicates clearly and confidently with elected officials, residents, and stakeholders while representing the Township in a professional and service-oriented manner.
• Provides knowledgeable oversight of public service operations including roadway infrastructure, drainage, fleet, and seasonal operations. Promotes a culture of safety, regulatory compliance, and reliable service delivery during routine and emergency operations.
• Takes a lead role in Township emergency response activities and maintains readiness for weather and infrastructure-related events.