JOB
Overview
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 to Assistant Township Administrator Kelly Kiener at [email protected]. The position will be open until filled with a first review of applications beginning June 24, 2026.
Responsibilities
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Prepares and administers the department’s annual budget and appropriations, including operating and capital investments.
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Establishes and prioritizes annual maintenance programs, including pavement resurfacing, curb repair, crack seal, and culvert repair.
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Provides leadership and directs department activities, including planning, resource allocation, and emergency response.
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Develops and implements department goals, objectives, policies, procedures, and service standards.
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Inspects existing and new infrastructure, assists residents with concerns, and identifies solutions.
Qualifications
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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.
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Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.
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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
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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.
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Applies sound judgment in a dynamic environment, challenges outdated practices, and implements practical, forward-thinking solutions aligned with long-term Township goals.
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Communicates clearly and confidently with elected officials, residents, and stakeholders while representing the Township in a professional and service-oriented manner.
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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.
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Takes a lead role in Township emergency response activities and maintains readiness for weather and infrastructure-related events.
Salary range for the position is $82,198 to $123,297 annually and the position is exempt.
Hours for the position are 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with occasional weekends and evenings to attend meetings and events, or to respond to weather conditions.
Employee Benefits - 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.
About Jefferson Township
Jefferson Township is located in northeast Franklin County, Ohio, encompassing approximately 15 square miles, and serving more than 15,000 residents and over 50 businesses in a growing suburban environment. Residents value the Township’s rural character, quiet atmosphere, and preserved open space, alongside convenient access to major regional employment, healthcare, retail and dining, and the John Glenn Columbus International Airport.
The majority of the Township is unincorporated, meaning Jefferson Township serves as the primary provider of local government services in those areas, including road maintenance, fire protection and emergency medical services, residential waste collection, zoning administration, and economic development. In incorporated portions of the Township, Jefferson Township continues to provide fire and EMS services.
The Township employs approximately 55 FTEs across 5 departments, and has an annual budget of $16 million, including capital and operating needs.
About the Department
Jefferson Township’s Service Department maintains more than 57 miles of Township roadways and associated infrastructure, including signage, rights-of-way, berms, curbs, sidewalks, and drainage systems. The Department also maintains four Township parks, public grounds, and five cemeteries, including the operation of two active cemeteries.
The Township places a high value on visible service delivery and maintains established standards that are recognized by residents and supported by elected officials. The Department also works closely with the Franklin County Engineer on major roadway and drainage construction projects and coordinates with the Franklin Soil and Water Conservation District to maintain stormwater regulatory compliance.
Operational Environment
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The Department is staffed by a small team of dedicated individuals, including the Public Service Director, Senior Administrative Assistant, Foreman, and six (6) Crew Members, performing in-house work with modern fleet assets, alongside regular contracted services.
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The Department’s annual budget is approximately $3 million and includes stable funding from a voter-approved 10-year 2.8 mill road levy, gas tax, and vehicle registrations.
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The Department works closely with Administration Department staff on strategic planning and capital improvements for Township parks and open spaces.
Ohio Sunshine Laws - Please be aware that all aspects of this recruitment are open to public records requests throughout the process.
Jefferson Township is a tobacco-free, drug-free, and substance-free workplace. Recommended candidates must pass a pre-employment drug screen prior to appointment. Tobacco use and smoking/vaping are not permitted on Township property or in Township vehicles.
Equal Opportunity Employment - The Board of Trustees is an equal opportunity employer and does not make employment decisions based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or transgender status), national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or political affiliation.
