Description
Organization: City of Brainerd
Position Title: Public Utilities Director
Address: 501 Laurel Street, Brainerd, MN 56401
First Review: October 12, 2025; Open until filled. Rolling interviews will be conducted. Don’t delay in applying.
Hiring salary range: $138,590 - $154,440 annually DOQ.
Position salary range: $138,590 – $165,006
Performance-based salary opportunity to up $184,808
The City of Brainerd is seeking a Public Utilities Director for this vibrant community nestled in the heart of Minnesota's lake country. With 14,665 residents, Brainerd is the largest city in Crow Wing County and serves as the county seat and regional hub.
THE CITY OF BRAINERD
Incorporated in 1881, the City of Brainerd is governed by a Mayor and a seven-member City Council elected to four-year terms. The City has an operating budget of $13.7 million. In addition, the Public Utilities Department’s operating budget is $39.7 million. The Department is a municipal utility that has been providing electric, water, and wastewater services to the City of Brainerd, portions of the City of Baxter, and surrounding townships. The Department operates with a team of 46 FTEs and includes the Electric Distribution and Hydro Generation, Water, and Wastewater divisions.
THE PUBLIC UTILITIES DIRECTOR
The Public Utilities Director provides leadership and direction relating to the municipal utilities systems including electric distribution and hydro generation, water treatment and distribution, and wastewater treatment facilities. Work is performed under the supervision of the City Administrator. The Director exercises general and administrative supervision over all department employees either directly or through supervisory staff. This position requires a high degree of communication skills to establish and maintain a positive and productive work environment.
WHY APPLY
This is a unique opportunity to lead the largest department for the City of Brainerd in the heart of Minnesota’s north-central tourist vacationland. The new Director will oversee an exceptional utility operation for a progressive and entrepreneurial community. Reporting to the City Administrator, the Director will be on the leading edge of major infrastructure improvement projects and renewable energy initiatives. This municipal utility system has stable finances and is well-maintained and operated by experienced and knowledgeable staff. This position also provides many innovative and exciting initiatives on the horizon—all in a family-friendly community with an exceptional quality of life.
View the full position profile and job description at gmphr.com.
More Information: GMP Consultants is assisting the City of Brainerd with this search. Learn more at gmphr.com. The City of Brainerd is an Equal Opportunity Employer. First Review is October 12, 2025. Open until filled. Rolling interviews will be conducted. Don’t delay in applying!
