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Entry Level Public Works Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Public Works information

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$12

$24

$44

How much do entry level public works jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level 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.

Can you get a government job with no work experience?

Entry level public works jobs often do not require prior work experience, focusing instead on basic skills, a high school diploma or equivalent, and sometimes a valid driver's license. Candidates may need to complete on-the-job training or obtain relevant certifications, such as OSHA safety training, to qualify for these roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Public Works employee, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Public Works employee, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic construction or maintenance knowledge, and a willingness to learn on the job. Familiarity with hand and power tools, safety equipment, and sometimes a valid driver’s license or commercial driving certification are commonly required. Dependability, teamwork, and communication skills are vital soft skills for success in this role. These competencies ensure tasks are performed safely, efficiently, and collaboratively, supporting the effective maintenance of public infrastructure.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

Entry-level public works jobs typically do not pay $10,000 a month without experience or specialized certifications. High-paying roles in this field usually require advanced skills, certifications, or experience, and salaries vary based on location and responsibilities. Most entry-level positions start with lower wages, but some specialized roles or supervisory positions can reach higher earnings over time.

What types of projects and tasks can I expect to work on as an Entry Level Public Works employee?

As an Entry Level Public Works employee, you can expect to assist with a variety of tasks that support the maintenance and improvement of public infrastructure. Your daily responsibilities may include repairing roads, maintaining parks, cleaning public spaces, and assisting with the setup of community events. You’ll often work outdoors as part of a team, collaborating with more experienced staff and learning about equipment operation and safety protocols. This role provides valuable hands-on experience and can serve as a stepping stone to advanced positions within the public works department.

What is the difference between Entry Level Public Works vs Entry Level Civil Engineering Assistant?

AspectEntry Level Public WorksEntry Level Civil Engineering Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require relevant certificationsHigh school diploma; some positions may prefer coursework in engineering or related fields
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, construction sites, municipal facilitiesOffice settings, field inspections, project sites
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipal governments, public agencies, construction firmsEngineering firms, government agencies, consulting companies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Public Works roles typically involve fieldwork and maintenance tasks within municipal or public sector settings, often requiring certifications or relevant experience. Entry Level Civil Engineering Assistants focus more on supporting engineering projects, with some roles requiring coursework in engineering. Both roles are common starting points in the public infrastructure industry, but they differ mainly in work environment and specific credentials.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Entry level public works jobs typically do not pay $2000 a day; such high daily earnings are usually associated with specialized roles like consulting, project management, or skilled trades with significant experience or certifications. Most public works positions offer hourly wages or salaries that are below this level, often depending on location, responsibilities, and union agreements.

What are Entry Level Public Works jobs?

Entry Level Public Works jobs are positions within government or municipal agencies focused on maintaining and improving public infrastructure and services. These roles often include tasks such as sanitation, road maintenance, water and sewage management, and supporting construction projects. Entry level positions typically require minimal prior experience and may involve on-the-job training. They offer a starting point for individuals interested in public service, infrastructure, or community improvement. Working in public works can lead to career advancement as you gain experience and additional certifications.

What is the easiest construction job to get into?

Entry-level public works jobs such as laborer or maintenance worker are generally the easiest construction roles to enter, often requiring minimal experience and offering on-the-job training. These positions typically involve physical work, basic tools, and safety protocols, making them accessible for newcomers to the construction industry.
More about Entry Level Public Works jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Public Works jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Public Works job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Public Works jobs? The most popular types of Public Works jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Public Works jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Public Works jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Public Works jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Public Works jobs are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Public Works job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,420 per year, or $24.2 per hour.
Public Works Maintenance Worker I/II - Temporary Part-Time (TPT)

Public Works Maintenance Worker I/II - Temporary Part-Time (TPT)

City of Davis, CA

Davis, CA • On-site

$24.88 - $33.26/hr

Temporary

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Performs a variety of semi-skilled and skilled tasks in the construction, maintenance, and repair of streets, signs, sewers, storm drains, bike pump stations, drainage channels, and related public works infrastructure and facilities.

  • Operates light and moderately heavy power-driven equipment and performs routine preventive maintenance on equipment and vehicles as assigned.

  • Receives work orders electronically and prepares, maintains, and inputs detailed logs, records, and reports of maintenance and repair activities via digital devices into automated software systems.


Job description

Salary: $24.88 - $33.26 Hourly
Location : Davis, CA
Job Type: Temporary Part-time
Job Number: 00890
Department: Public Works Department
Division: Utilities & Operations
Opening Date: 06/10/2024
Closing Date: Continuous
Description
This is a continuous recruitment. Applications will be reviewed on a continuous basis until the position is filled. This position is Temporary Part-time (TPT) and the benefits tab does not apply to this position.
DEFINITION
Under immediate (Public Works Maintenance Worker I) or general (Public Works Maintenance Worker II) supervision, performs a variety of semi-skilled and skilled tasks in the construction, maintenance, and repair of streets, signs, sewers, storm drains, bike pump stations, drainage channels, and related public works infrastructure and facilities; operates light and moderately heavy power-driven equipment; and performs related work as required.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Receives immediate (Public Works Maintenance Worker I) or general (Public Works Maintenance Worker II) supervision from assigned supervisory or management personnel. Exercises no direct supervision over staff.
CLASS CHARACTERISTICS
Public Works Maintenance Worker I: This is the entry-level classification in the Public Works Maintenance Worker series. Initially under close supervision, incumbents learn and perform routine semi-skilled and skilled tasks in the construction, maintenance, and repair of streets, signs, sewers, storm drains, bike pump stations, drainage channels, and related public works infrastructure and facilities. As experience is gained, assignments become more varied, complex, and difficult; close supervision and frequent review of work lessen as an incumbent demonstrates skill to perform the work independently. Positions at this level usually perform most of the duties required of the positions at the Public Works Maintenance Worker II level but are not expected to function at the same skill level and usually exercise less independent discretion and judgment in matters related to work procedures and methods. Work is usually supervised while in progress and fits an established structure or pattern. Exceptions or changes in procedures are explained in detail as they arise.
Public Works Maintenance Worker II: This is the fully qualified journey-level classification in the Public Works Maintenance Worker series. Positions at this level are distinguished from the Public Works Maintenance Worker I level by the performance of the full range of duties as assigned, working independently, and exercising judgment and initiative. Positions at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit.
Positions in the Public Works Maintenance Worker class series are flexibly staffed; positions at the Public Works Maintenance Worker II level are normally filled by advancement from the Public Works Maintenance Worker I level; progression to the Public Works Maintenance Worker II level is dependent on (i) management affirmation that the position is performing the full range of duties assigned to the classification; (ii) satisfactory work performance; (iii) the incumbent meeting the minimum qualifications for the classification including any licenses and certifications; and (iv) management approval for progression to the Public Works Maintenance Worker II level.
Examples of Duties
EXAMPLES OF TYPICAL JOB FUNCTIONS (Illustrative Only)
Essential functions may include, but are not limited to, the following:
Positions at the Public Works Maintenance Worker I level may perform some of these duties and responsibilities in a learning capacity.
All Assignments:
  • Sets up traffic safety control devices, cones, and barricades as necessary.
  • Operates a variety of equipment and vehicles; performs routine preventive maintenance on equipment and vehicles as assigned.
  • Utilizes proper safety precautions related to all work performed.
  • Receives work orders electronically; prepares, maintains, and inputs detailed logs, records, and reports of maintenance and repair activities via mobile and stationary digital devices into automated software systems.
  • Performs emergency street, sewer, storm drain, or other public works infrastructure maintenance work.
  • Responds to hazardous material incidents.
  • Sets up and takes down equipment for City special events.
  • Picks up and discards trash, brush, leaves, debris, deceased animals, discarded furniture; trims and removes trees, shrubs, and bushes; performs weed abatement.
  • Maintains inventory of safety-related supplies.
  • Trains employees on how to use tools and all types of equipment.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

When assigned to Streets Maintenance Division:
  • Performs street maintenance duties; operates equipment such as trucks, tractors, jackhammers, and backhoes for a variety of construction and maintenance operations involving streets, sidewalks, gutters, sewer lines, and drainage channels.
  • Grinds and patches concrete and asphalt hazards in streets and sidewalks; repairs potholes.
  • Paints traffic markings on streets, crosswalks, parking lots, and curbs.
  • Designs, manufactures, and installs street signs, traffic signs, and special signs for municipal facilities; removes signs no longer required.
  • Fixes and maintains City-owned fences.
  • Spreads asphalt in patching and repairing streets.

When assigned to Stormwater Division:
  • Operates and maintains storm drainage channels, ditches, catch basins, storm drain stations, and bike pump stations; cleans out drains; prepares stormwater drainage systems for rainy season.
  • Conducts routine inspections on channels and outlying areas to ensure water can flow properly without any obstruction.
  • Responds to and mitigates flood calls; pumps excess surface water; responds to the public when various items fall into drain inlet.
  • Installs, replaces, and repairs storm drain inlets, underground pipes, lateral lines, and culver pipes throughout different channels.

Typical Qualifications
QUALIFICATIONS
Positions at the Public Works Maintenance Worker I level may exercise some of these knowledge and abilities statements in a learning capacity.
Knowledge of:
  • Basic methods, tools, materials, and equipment used in maintenance work.
  • Basic construction and repair methods.
  • Principles and practices of work safety.
  • Traffic control, confined space entry, and lockout/tagout safety procedures.
  • Methods, techniques, tools, and the operational characteristics of mechanical equipment used in the construction and maintenance of streets, signs, sewers, storm drains, bike pump stations, drainage channels, and related public works infrastructure and facilities.
  • Procedures and techniques of concrete and asphalt work.
  • Hazards associated with the work and proper safety precautions.
  • Traffic laws, ordinances, and rules involved in truck and heavy equipment operations.
  • Purposes and uses of a variety of vehicles, equipment, power tools, and hand tools including motorized and hydraulic equipment.
  • Standards relating to installation, location, and required maintenance of traffic signs and pavement markings.
  • Properties of backfill materials, construction materials, concrete, asphalt, hot patch, cold patch, oils, paints, and a variety of other materials used in maintenance work.
  • Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively interacting with the public, vendors, contractors, and City staff.
  • The structure and content of the English language to effectively perform work.
  • Modern equipment and communication tools used for business functions and program, project, and task coordination, including computers and software programs relevant to work performed.

Ability to:
  • Perform semi-skilled and skilled maintenance, construction, and repair work in the area of work assigned.
  • Review, interpret and complete assigned work orders.
  • Operate a variety of light and heavy mechanical equipment such as forklift, backhoe, or bucket truck.
  • Perform heavy manual labor.
  • Obtain certifications as required by OSHA/CalOSHA and provided by the City, to perform assigned duties.
  • Operate a variety of vehicles and equipment in a safe and effective manner.
  • Use and operate hand tools, mechanical equipment, and power tools and equipment required for the work in a safe and efficient manner.
  • Read and interpret basic maps and blueprints.
  • Assist in the training of others in the safe operation of tools and equipment.
  • Perform asphalt, concrete, and pipe work; work with paints and prepare surfaces for painting.
  • Work safely and adhere to principles of safety when working near traffic, in confined spaces, in trenches, or in other environments.
  • Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy and procedural guidelines.
  • Effectively use computer systems, software applications, and modern business equipment to perform a variety of work tasks.
  • Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, to effectively perform work.
  • Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Education and Experience:
Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:
Education:
  • Public Works Maintenance Worker I/II: Equivalent to completion of the twelfth (12th) grade.
Experience:
  • Public Works Maintenance Worker I: One (1) year of general maintenance experience.
  • Public Works Maintenance Worker II: Three (3) years of increasingly responsible general maintenance, general construction, or skilled trades experience, or two (2) years of experience performing duties similar to a Public Works Maintenance Worker I with the City of Davis.
Licenses and Certifications:
  • Possession of a valid California Driver's License, to be maintained throughout employment.
  • Possession of, or successful acquisition within 12 months from date of appointment, a valid Class "A" or "B" California Driver's License, with appropriate endorsements, to be maintained throughout employment.
  • Possession of, or successful acquisition within probationary period, a valid certification in American Red Cross CPR, First Aid and AED to be maintained throughout employment.
  • Possession of Pesticide Applicator's license, is desirable

Supplemental Information
Physical Demands
Must possess mobility to work in a field environment; strength, stamina, and mobility to perform medium to heavy physical work, to work in confined spaces and around machines, to climb and descend ladders, to operate varied hand and power tools and construction equipment, and to operate a motor vehicle and visit various City sites; vision to detect shades of color, read printed materials and a computer screen; and hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone or radio. The job involves fieldwork requiring frequent walking in operational areas to identify problems or hazards. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard and to operate above-mentioned tools and equipment. Positions in this classification bend, stoop, kneel, reach, and climb to perform work and inspect work sites. Employees must possess the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects weighing up to 90 pounds, or heavier weights with the use of proper equipment and assistance from other staff.
Employees must wear and use the proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). When assigned to Street Maintenance duties, ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects weighing up to 90 pounds, or heavier weights with the use of proper equipment and assistance from other staff.
Environmental Elements
Employees work in the field and are exposed to loud noise levels, cold and hot temperatures, inclement weather conditions, road hazards, vibration, confining workspaces, chemicals, mechanical and/or electrical hazards, and hazardous physical substances and fumes. Employees may interact with upset staff and/or public and private representatives in interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures.
WORKING CONDITIONS
May be required to be on-call and to work various shifts or emergencies on evenings, weekends, and holidays.
CITY OF DAVIS
BENEFIT SUMMARY SHEET
DCEA
Leave Time
  • 3 Weeks of Vacation Per Year to start (increases with years of service)
  • 2 Floating Holidays per fiscal year (pro-rated for new hires)
  • 13 paid Holidays
  • Sick Leave: Accrual of 8 hours per month / 12 days per year.
  • Parental Leave - 2 Months Paid Parental Leave Available After 1 Year of Employment.

Health Dental and Vision
  • 125 Cafeteria Plan.
    • The city contributes an amount up to 100% of the CalPERS Kaiser rate by category. The 2026 CalPERS Kaiser monthly rates by category are listed below.
      • Employee Only - $1,168.86
      • Employee Plus One - $2,337.72
      • Family Rate - $3,039.04
    • The city contributes the premium for the family rate of the City's self-funded dental plan
      • 2026 monthly premium for family is $210.00
  • Up to $500 Cash-in-lieu Per Month if Opting Out of Medical & Dental
  • Option to purchase Vision Insurance