CASEY ARNDT
Hemet,CA
Summary
KEY EXECUTIVE QUALIFICATIONS
27+ years of progressively responsible municipal public works and construction management experience. Senior leadership experience overseeing multi-division public works operations including engineering, transportation, maintenance, fleet, parks, and facilities. Extensive Capital Improvement Program (CIP) leadership with programs exceeding $100 million. Proven ability to plan, organize, and direct complex public works operations reporting to executive leadership and governing bodies. Demonstrated success building high-performing teams, improving productivity, and strengthening accountability. Clear, effective communicator with City Councils, Boards, executive leadership, and diverse community stakeholders.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
4
4
Certification
Work History
Deputy Director of Public Works
City of Palm Desert
Palm Desert, California
08.2025 - Current
- Enhanced operational efficiency through strategic oversight of Public Works divisions.
- Led budgeting and planning initiatives to improve service delivery and quality.
- Directed fleet electrification for regulatory compliance and cost-effectiveness.
- Collaborated with City Manager’s Office on key citywide projects and priorities.
- Implemented long-range strategies for parks, traffic, and community services improvements.
Construction Contracts Manager
Rancho California Water District
10.2018 - 08.2025
- Managed capital construction programs exceeding $100 million from planning through construction.
- Directed procurement, bid evaluation, contract administration, and claims resolution.
- Led multidisciplinary project teams and presented to executive leadership and governing boards.
Public Works Manager – Construction Inspection
City of San Marcos
San Marcos, California
04.2017 - 10.2018
- Ensured compliance with regulations by directing thorough inspections of public infrastructure projects.
- Evaluated contractor performance to maintain high standards and project specifications during development phases.
- Facilitated effective communication between stakeholders to resolve issues promptly and minimize project delays.
- Monitored construction activities to ensure adherence to safety protocols and industry best practices.
- Reviewed project documentation to verify accuracy and completeness prior to approval.
- Coordinated with local agencies to streamline project approvals and enhance community relations.
- Conducted training sessions for contractors to improve understanding of compliance requirements and standards.
Municipal Projects Manager
City of Carlsbad
01.2006 - 03.2017
- Delivered major municipal infrastructure projects including Fire Station No. 10 and El Camino Real Widening.
- Managed planning, design, construction, and public engagement.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Business Management
University of Phoenix
Associate of Science - Business Management
Palomar College
Skills
- Strategic planning
- Change management
- Program management
- Program implementation
- Staff development
- Contract management
- Transformative leadership
- Program administration
- Results orientation
Accomplishments
- Increased streets and traffic productivity through implementation of 1-, 3-, and 5-year sidewalk replacement programs.
- Modernized fleet management by transitioning from leased vehicles to a City-owned fleet and integrating CARB-mandated Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) requirements.
- Strengthened community services operations through improved work standards, performance reporting, and development of a 5-year master median landscape plan.
- Delivered and administered complex municipal infrastructure projects including streets, drainage, facilities, parks, and transportation corridors.
- Recognized for collaborative, hands-on leadership style and ability to simplify complex technical information for decision-makers.
Certification
CPESC | QSD/P | Water Distribution Operator D2 | NASSCO CIP Inspector
Timeline
Deputy Director of Public Works
City of Palm Desert
08.2025 - Current
Construction Contracts Manager
Rancho California Water District
10.2018 - 08.2025
Public Works Manager – Construction Inspection
City of San Marcos
04.2017 - 10.2018
Municipal Projects Manager
City of Carlsbad
01.2006 - 03.2017
Associate of Science - Business Management
Palomar College
Bachelor of Science - Business Management
University of Phoenix