Commissioner of Public Works
Halton Region is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace that reflects the communities we serve. We value, welcome and respect the unique perspectives and contributions of all individuals. We encourage applications from Indigenous Peoples (First Nation, Métis, Inuit), Black and racialized persons, persons with disabilities, women, and members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community. Accommodations are available at any point upon request for candidates participating in the selection process.
If you are looking for a role where you can lead a team towards the delivery of municipal infrastructure projects for the residents of Halton, we want to hear from you. Over the next 10 years, the Region will be investing over $5 billion in transportation, water and wastewater infrastructure. We are committed to delivering high quality infrastructure for the residents, businesses and visitors to Halton Region, and are looking for dedicated, forward thinking and enthusiastic individuals to join our Public Works team!
As an employer of choice, Halton Region recognizes the many benefits of hybrid work arrangements including flexibility and better work-life balance for our employees. This position is eligible for our Hybrid Work Program.
Posting ID: 4188
Department: Public Works
Division: Office of the Commissioner
Pay Range: $210,265 – $262,831
Job Type: Permanent
Contract Duration:
Hours of Work: 35 hours per week
Work Location: 1151 Bronte Road, Oakville, ON
Employee Group: MMSG
Posting Date: April 16, 2025
Application Deadline: May 2, 2025
Job Summary:
The Commissioner of Public Works is a strategic executive role responsible for one of the largest and most complex portfolios in the Region. Reporting to the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) and serving on the Region’s Management Committee, the Commissioner provides forward-looking leadership across six integrated service areas: Development Services; Engineering, Construction, & Road Operations; Infrastructure Planning and Policy; Water and Wastewater System Services; Water & Wastewater Treatment; and Waste Management.
The Commissioner leads over 600 professional and front-line employees, manages an annual operating budget of $396 million, and oversees a ten-year capital program exceeding $8.4 billion. The portfolio supports and stewards over $12 billion in infrastructure assets essential to public health, community development, and environmental protection.
This role is key to advancing Halton’s major strategic priorities, including managing growth to 2051, delivering climate adaptation and sustainability initiatives, driving infrastructure innovation, and enhancing customer-focused service delivery through digital modernization. Just as importantly, the Commissioner must model and protect the strong, collaborative culture that has been built – bringing a down-to-earth, inclusive leadership style that invites diverse perspectives, fosters trust, and inspires others to grow.
We will begin reviewing applications as they are received, and highly qualified candidates may be invited to participate in preliminary assessments before the posting closes. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible and not wait until the May 2, 2025 deadline.
Key Responsibilities:
- Translate Halton’s Strategic Business Plan into actionable operating plans across all Public Works service areas.
- Lead the execution of growth and infrastructure strategies such as the Integrated Master Plan and the Housing Allocation Program in alignment with provincial and regional targets.
- Oversee infrastructure capital program delivery, asset management strategies, vendor performance, and service modernization.
- Advise Regional Council and Committees, preparing and presenting well-informed, evidence-based reports and recommendations.
- Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, continuous improvement, and professional development.
- Drive service innovation, including expanded digital service delivery (e.g., metering, traffic management systems, flood response).
- Build collaborative partnerships with local municipalities, provincial and federal governments, industry associations, and community stakeholders
What You Bring:
- A university degree in engineering, business administration, or a related discipline.
- A minimum of ten years’ experience in senior leadership roles within complex public works or municipal infrastructure settings.
- A leadership style rooted in humility, openness, and respect – able to foster a psychologically safe, inclusive environment where others feel heard, supported, and empowered.
- The cultural awareness and courage to lead with intention, understanding that success in this role requires more than technical results; it demands visible commitment to people, values, and stewardship of the team culture.
- Demonstrated success leading major capital programs and operational teams within unionized environments.
- Expertise in long-range infrastructure and environmental planning, fiscal strategy, service delivery transformation, and emergency management
- Exceptional political acuity and communication skills, with experience advising elected officials and engaging with the public.
- Proven ability to develop and coach high-performing teams, lead organizational change, and foster inclusive and collaborative workplaces.
Important information about your application:
- In accordance with requirements in Ontario Regulation 191/11 – Integrated Accessibility Standards and the Ontario Human Rights Code, Halton Region will accommodate the needs of individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. If you require accommodation at any stage of the recruitment process, please inform the Talent Acquisition representative of the nature of the accommodation(s) you require.
- Please submit your application online. We will accommodate individual needs for applicants with disabilities and others who are not able to apply online. If you experience any issues with submitting your application, please contact HR Access at 905-825-6000 extension 7700.
- Applications will be accepted until 11:59 p.m. on the deadline date specified on the posting.
- We encourage applications from all qualified individuals; however, only those under consideration will be contacted.
- Personal information collected through the job application process will only be used for the purpose of determining qualifications for employment.
- If selected for an interview, you will be contacted by email and/or phone. Please ensure the contact information provided on your resume is up to date and that you check your email and voicemail regularly.
Halton Region serves more than 624,000 residents throughout Burlington, Halton Hills, Milton and Oakville. We are committed to the delivery of high quality programs and services that make Halton a great place to live and work. We engage great people who contribute to meaningful work that makes a positive difference in our community. At Halton, you are encouraged to grow and succeed in your career and are recognized for your accomplishments and contributions. As an employee, you will be part of a progressive, service focused and award winning employer with a diverse and inclusive work environment.
