City of Clatskanie
Salary: $103,656 – $120,000
Clatskanie, a picturesque town located in Oregon’s Lower Columbia region, is a blend of natural beauty and rich history. Situated conveniently between the cities of Portland and Astoria, Clatskanie offers an escape into a serene, forested landscape while remaining connected to urban amenities. Clatskanie was named after a small, vanished tribe of Native Americans, the Tlatskanai tribe, whose name suggests “swift running water”, reflecting the Clatskanie River that enhances the town’s charm. Historical landmarks in the city include Flippin Castle, an historic turreted mansion situated atop a hill that functions as a museum and special event center. For those looking to get outside, walking and water trails begin in the Clatskanie City Park. The park also offers playgrounds, playing fields and a covered skatepark. After launching a kayak in the park, kayakers can wind their way all the way to the Columbia River.
The City of Clatskanie operates under a Council-Manager form of government and has 10 FTEs and a 2024-25 budget of $9.6 million. The Public Works Department is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the city’s water, sewer, and street and storm drainage systems. The main duties of the department include the repair and replacement of street signs, pavement repair, repair and replacement of water mains, service lines, and water meters, cleaning and repair of catch basins and manholes, pothole repair, treatment of drinking water, and treatment of wastewater. The department operates on a 2024-25 budget of over $2.5 million with 6 FTEs, including the public works director, foreman, two utility workers, water treatment plant operator, and wastewater treatment plant operator.
Under the direction of the City Manager, the Public Works Director manages the ongoing operations of the Public Works Department that include water treatment and distribution systems, wastewater treatment and collection systems, and city street maintenance. This position provides project management duties for capital projects of the city, provides engineering design and expertise, and prepares plans and specifications as required for contract work. The Public Works Director supervises department employees and assesses and provides strategic plans to meet future departmental and community infrastructure needs. This position is considered “at-will”.
A bachelor’s degree in public administration, civil engineering, or an equivalent field. Substantial work experience may be considered in lieu of a degree. Four (4) years of experience in a public agency in the same or similar field. Knowledge of practices related to road construction and maintenance, sewer system distribution, and water system distribution. While not required, the ideal candidate will have a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, be registered as a Professional Engineer, or have the ability to become registered within six (6) months of employment.
For a complete position profile, full job description and to apply online, visit Prothman at https://www.prothman.com/ and click on “Open Recruitments”. For questions, call 206-368-0050. The City of Clatskanie is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Apply by April 11, 2025. (Applications reviewed as submitted. Open until filled.)