Michael Carbajal has been named the new director of public utilities for the City of Fresno. Photo contributed from the City of Fresno.

A new public utilities director has been named for the City of Fresno.

Mayor Lee Brand and City Manager Wilma Quan-Schecter announced today that Michael Carbajal will replace Thomas Esqueda in the position, according to a press release from the city. Esqueda left the position to become the first associate vice president for water and sustainability at California State University, Fresno.

“Mike has proven experience in managing large-scale water systems for the City of Fresno and his leadership during the $600 million Recharge Fresno water infrastructure program was instrumental in the project coming in on time and under budget,” City Manager Quan-Schecter said n the release.  “He already understands the challenges facing our Public Utilities department and I am confident in Mike’s ability to bring a new perspective to an important position while continuing to provide our customers with top quality service.”

Carbajal began his career as a junior engineering technician with the State of California Department of Water Resources in 2000. He joined City of Fresno’s Department of Public Utilities in 2002 and was appointed division manager in 2014.

As director of the department, Carbajal will oversee operations, maintenance and long-range planning of water, wastewater and solid waste.

Carbajal has a bachelor of science degree in business administration from California State University, Fresno.