Public Works Director Finalist Named; Public Invited to Presentation

Published on June 12, 2025

AMES, Iowa – After a national recruitment, a finalist has been selected for the position of Public Works Director for the City of Ames. A public presentation has been scheduled for the candidate, which includes the opportunity for residents to meet the finalist and ask questions. Former City of Ames Public Works Director John Joiner retired earlier this year after more than 31 years of service.

Justin Clausen, of Ames, currently serves as Interim Public Works Director. He will give a public presentation at 4 p.m. on Monday, June 16, at Homewood Golf Course Clubhouse, 401 E. 20th St.

Clausen joined the City of Ames in 2011 as Public Works Construction Supervisor. He became the Public Works Operations Manager in 2014, overseeing street maintenance, storm sewer, snow and ice control, sanitary sewer collection, and water distribution. Clausen has a bachelor’s degree in construction engineering from Iowa State University. He is a licensed professional engineer and a Certified Public Works Professional - Management. Clausen has 10 years of experience in private industry constructing roads and bridges.

The Public Works Director oversees five divisions within the department including Administration, Engineering, Operations, Resource Recovery System, and Traffic. Public Works covers a range of activities including maintenance and construction of streets and public infrastructure, overseeing solid waste processing and recycling, maintaining the citywide transportation network including signage, painting, and traffic signals; snow removal; capital improvements planning; and administering the Department’s annual budget. The Public Works Department includes 77 staff.

The public is invited to share feedback on the candidate. Other finalists may be announced in the future.                                                          

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