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City Public Works Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Director of Public Works

Brawley, CA · On-site

$137K - $175K/yr

Public Works Division: Engineering Opening Date: 07/22/2026 Closing Date: 8/19/2026 11:59 PM ... Provides executive leadership for the City's public infrastructure systems by directing the ...

Public Works Director

Freeport, TX · On-site

$95K - $139K/yr

City Manager SHIFT: 7:30AM-4:30 PM, M-F (May be changed at the discretion of the City of Freeport ... The Public Works Director serves as a strategic department head responsible for the planning ...

Public Works Director

Umatilla, OR · On-site

$115K - $141K/yr

General Purpose The City of Umatilla is currently recruiting for it's next Public Works Director. To apply, visit GMP Consultants. This position plans, organizes, directs and controls all City Public ...

Public Works Technician-ROW

Buda, TX · On-site

$47K - $54K/yr

Description Description The City of Buda is hiring for a Public Works Technician position. Placement within the Public Works Technician career progression (I, II, or III) and starting pay will be ...

Public Works Technician-ROW

TX · On-site

$47K - $54K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Description Description The City of Buda is hiring for a Public Works Technician position. Placement within the Public Works Technician career progression (I, II, or III) and starting pay will be ...

Public Works & Utilities Director

Clinton, NC · On-site

$97K - $107K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Advises the City Manager, elected officials and various boards on a wide variety of public works matters; construction, improvement, environmental compliance, citizen and intergovernmental relations ...

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City Public Works information

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$12

$24

$44

How much do city public works jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for city public works in the United States is $24.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in city public works, and how can new hires prepare for them?

Professionals in City Public Works often encounter challenges such as responding to emergency situations (like water main breaks or severe weather), managing multiple ongoing projects, and coordinating with various departments and contractors. Effective communication, adaptability, and strong organizational skills are crucial for success. New hires can prepare by familiarizing themselves with local infrastructure, safety protocols, and by building relationships with colleagues to foster teamwork and efficient problem-solving.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a city public works professional?

To thrive in City Public Works, you need a solid understanding of civil engineering, infrastructure maintenance, and public safety standards, often supported by a relevant degree or technical certification. Familiarity with GIS mapping systems, project management software, and regulatory compliance tools is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication help professionals coordinate with city officials and community members. These skills ensure efficient project delivery, regulatory compliance, and the maintenance of essential public infrastructure.

What is the difference between City Public Works vs City Maintenance Worker?

AspectCity Public WorksCity Maintenance Worker
CertificationsHigh school diploma, CDL preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent
Work EnvironmentPublic infrastructure projects, streets, utilitiesBuilding, road, and facility maintenance
Employer & IndustryMunicipal government, public sectorMunicipal government, public sector
Job ScopeOversees multiple departments, manages projectsPerforms maintenance and repairs

City Public Works roles typically involve overseeing infrastructure projects and managing teams, while City Maintenance Workers focus on hands-on repairs and upkeep of public facilities. Both roles are essential in maintaining city operations but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What is city public works?

City Public Works refers to the departments or agencies within a city government responsible for the construction, maintenance, and operation of public infrastructure and services. This includes roads, bridges, water supply, sewage systems, public buildings, and sometimes parks and waste management. Public Works ensures that essential city services function properly and safely for residents, supporting the community’s daily needs and long-term growth. Their work is crucial for public health, safety, transportation, and the overall quality of life in urban areas.
More about City Public Works jobs

What cities are hiring for City Public Works jobs?

Cities with the most City Public Works job openings:

What states have the most City Public Works jobs?

States with the most job openings for City Public Works jobs include:

Infographic showing various City Public Works job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, 38% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,420 per year, or $24.2 per hour.

Director of Public Works

City of Huron, California

Huron, CA • On-site

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

The City of Huron is dedicated to providing efficient and effective quality municipal services that enhance the quality of life in a way that provides a financially viable, business-friendly and family-oriented community, promoting a full range of housing, business, and culture in a safe and attractive environment. The City of Huron is seeking an experienced and highly skilled Public Works Director to oversee all aspects of the city’s public works operations, including streets, water and wastewater utilities, facilities, fleet, parks, street sweeping, and general services. The Public Works Director provides leadership, strategic planning, and management of staff and resources to ensure safe, efficient, and cost-effective public infrastructure and services, including compliance with state and federal water regulations.



Key Responsibilities

  • Plan, organize, direct, and coordinate the city’s public works operations, including streets, water and wastewater treatment plants, utilities, parks, facilities, fleet, street sweeping, and general service
  • Oversee the operation, maintenance, and compliance of water distribution and wastewater collection/treatment systems, ensuring adherence to all local, state, and federal regulations
  • Develop and implement departmental goals, objectives, policies, and procedures in alignment with city priorities
  • Oversee the preparation and administration of the departmental budget, including monitoring expenditures, revenue, and capital improvement project
  • Supervise, train, and evaluate department staff; provide leadership, guidance, and professional development opportunities
  • Oversee construction, repair, and maintenance of streets, sidewalks, drainage systems, city buildings, and other public facilities
  • Coordinate capital improvement projects, including design, permitting, contracting, inspection, and completion
  • Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local laws, safety standards, and environmental regulation
  • Serve as the city’s representative with contractors, utility providers, regulatory agencies, and the public
  • Respond to emergencies, service requests, and natural disasters affecting city infrastructure
  • Prepare and present reports, updates, and recommendations to the City Manager, City Council, and other stakeholders
  • Promote community engagement and maintain positive public relations regarding public works projects and service


Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in public administration, construction management, or a related field,
  • or Five or more years of progressively responsible experience in public works, municipal operations, including supervisory and management experience
  • Thorough knowledge of public works operations, maintenance practices, fleet management, street sweeping, construction, and regulatory compliance
  • Strong leadership, organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Possession of a California Grade III or IV Water Treatment Operator Certificate and California Wastewater Treatment Operator Certificate, issued by the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB)or California Department of Public Health (CDPH)
  • OR Ability to obtain and maintain the required Water and/or Wastewater Operator certification within a specified timeframe as a condition of continued employment
  • Valid California Driver’s License


Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience managing water and wastewater treatment plants and municipal utility operations
  • Knowledge of California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) regulations
  • Experience managing capital improvement projects and municipal infrastructure programs
  • Knowledge of municipal budgeting, grant administration, and procurement processes
  • Bilingual skills (English/Spanish)


Working Conditions

  • Combination of office and field work, including visits to water/wastewater treatment facilities, streets, and public works sites
  • Exposure to outdoor conditions, construction sites, chemicals, water/wastewater systems, and operational equipment, and public hazards
  • Occasional evening, weekend, or on-call work required
  • Interaction with city staff, contractors, regulatory agencies, and the public