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Manager Department Public Works Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Billings, MT

Public Works Director

Billings, MT · On-site

$145K - $194K/yr

Under general administrative direction, to plan, direct, manage, and oversee the activities and operations of the Public Works Department; to coordinate assigned activities with other City ...

Santa Rosa Rancheria

Public Works Director

Lemoore, CA · On-site

$104K - $119K/yr

Ability to use Microsoft Power Point for presentations to Tribal Council, Community, or various departments. * Familiarity with work order software for tracking and managing public works projects and ...

City of Shelton, WA

Director of Public Works

Shelton, WA · On-site

$113K - $152K/yr

Public Works Opening Date: 05/12/2026 Description This position provides executive level management ... Serves as a key role of the management team in advising the City Manager, other departments and ...

City of Brawley, CA

Director of Public Works

Brawley, CA · On-site

$137K - $175K/yr

The Public Works Operations Department is responsible for the planning, operation, maintenance, management, and continuous improvement of the city's public infrastructure systems and includes, but is ...

City of Umatilla, OR

Public Works Director

Umatilla, OR · On-site

$115K - $141K/yr

Public Works Opening Date: 05/22/2026 Closing Date: 8/9/2026 11:59 PM Pacific FLSA: Exempt ... Provides advice and counsel to City Manager and implements directives; represents the department ...

City of Placentia, CA

Public Works Inspector

Placentia, CA · On-site

$68K - $84K/yr

Our Public Works Department seeks a dedicated, hardworking individual to join our Inspection Division as a Public Works Inspector. DON'T WAIT! APPLY TODAY! Under the direction of the Deputy Director ...

City of Buda, TX

Public Works Technician-Streets

TX · On-site

$47K - $54K/yr

Public Works, TX Job Type: Full-Time Job Number: 202400063 Department: Public Works Division ... Performs vegetation management and right-of-way maintenance activities adjacent to streets and ...

Lincoln County, OR

Public Works Director

Newport, OR · On-site

$133K - $179K/yr

Under the direction of the County Administrator, the Public Works Director is responsible for the administration, general management, policymaking, planning, and direction of the department and is ...

City of Buda, TX

Public Works Technician-ROW

TX · On-site

$47K - $54K/yr

Public Works, TX Job Type: Full-Time Job Number: 202400064 Department: Public Works Division ... Assists with vegetation management activities, including tree trimming, brush removal, herbicide ...

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Manager Department Public Works information

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$36K

$86.6K

$142.5K

How much do manager department public works jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for manager department public works in the United States is $86,568.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,500.00 and $106,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Manager Department Public Works vs Public Works Supervisor?

AspectManager Department Public WorksPublic Works Supervisor
CredentialsBachelor's degree in civil engineering, public administration, or related field; often requires management experienceHigh school diploma or equivalent; relevant experience in public works or construction
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple teams, manages budgets, and plans projects within public works departmentsSupervises field crews, ensures daily operations, and enforces safety protocols
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipal government agencies, public infrastructure departmentsCity or county public works departments, construction firms
Common Search & ComparisonManager Department Public Works vs Public Works Supervisor

The Manager Department Public Works typically holds a higher-level role with broader responsibilities, including strategic planning and departmental management. In contrast, the Public Works Supervisor focuses on overseeing daily operations and supervising field staff. Both roles are essential in public infrastructure projects but differ mainly in scope and seniority.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Manager of a Department of Public Works, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Manager of a Department of Public Works, you need expertise in civil engineering, project management, budgeting, and municipal operations, usually backed by a relevant degree and substantial management experience. Familiarity with project management software, GIS systems, and compliance with public works regulations is crucial. Leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication are vital soft skills for coordinating teams and engaging with the community. These competencies ensure efficient infrastructure maintenance, regulatory compliance, and successful delivery of public services.

What does a Manager of the Department of Public Works do?

A Manager of the Department of Public Works oversees the planning, organization, and coordination of public infrastructure and maintenance services in a community. This role includes managing teams responsible for roads, sanitation, water supply, waste management, and public facilities. The manager ensures projects are completed efficiently, within budget, and in compliance with local regulations. They also interact with government officials and the public to address concerns and improve community services.

What are some typical challenges faced by a Manager in the Department of Public Works, and how can they be addressed?

Managers in the Department of Public Works often face challenges related to balancing multiple infrastructure projects, managing budgets, and addressing urgent community needs such as emergency repairs. Effective communication with team members, stakeholders, and the public is crucial to coordinate efforts and ensure transparency. Staying organized, prioritizing tasks, and leveraging project management tools can help address these challenges while maintaining high standards of public service.
More about Manager Department Public Works jobs
What cities are hiring for Manager Department Public Works jobs? Cities with the most Manager Department Public Works job openings:
What states have the most Manager Department Public Works jobs? States with the most job openings for Manager Department Public Works jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Manager Department Public Works jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Manager Department Public Works jobs are:
Manager Department Public Works jobs near you
Infographic showing various Manager Department Public Works job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,568 per year, or $41.6 per hour.

Public Works Manager

City of Crystal Lake, IL

Crystal Lake, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Salary: See Position Description
Location : 100 W. Woodstock Street, Crystal Lake, IL
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 2026-24
Department: Public Works
Opening Date: 07/21/2026
Position Summary
The City of Crystal Lake is seeking a collaborative, organized, and detail-oriented Public Works Manager to oversee the administrative and operational functions of the Public Works and Engineering Department. This position plays a key role in coordinating public works bidding and contracting processes, developing and monitoring departmental operating and capital budgets, administering the City's Motor Fuel Tax (MFT) Program, and supporting infrastructure projects from procurement through completion.
The Public Works Manager serves as a liaison between departments, contractors, consultants, regulatory agencies, and the public while ensuring efficient departmental operations and compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and City policies.
The Public Works Manager serves as a key member of the Public Works and Engineering leadership team, supporting the City's infrastructure investments, capital improvement projects, and daily operations. This position offers the opportunity to make a lasting impact through effective project administration, financial stewardship, and continuous process improvement while working alongside a dedicated team committed to exceptional public service.
Key Responsibilities
The following duties are representative of the position and are not intended to be all-inclusive.
  • Manage the day-to-day administrative operations of the Public Works and Engineering Department, including purchase orders, invoice approvals, payment processing, payroll coordination, and expense tracking.
  • Coordinate the preparation, solicitation, evaluation, and award of bids and Requests for Proposals (RFPs) for engineering services, construction projects, equipment purchases, and other departmental needs.
  • Prepare professional service agreements, construction contracts, and related procurement documents.
  • Review contracts, performance bonds, payment bonds, certificates of insurance, and other contractual documents for compliance with City policies and project requirements.
  • Assist in developing and monitoring the Department's annual operating budget, multi-year Capital Improvement Program (CIP), and long-range capital planning initiatives.
  • Prepare City Council agenda items, staff reports, technical memorandums, presentations, and other written communications.
  • Administer the City's Motor Fuel Tax (MFT) Program in accordance with Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) requirements, including:
    • Preparing resolutions and required documentation
    • Creating section numbers
    • Completing MFT forms
    • Coordinating with the Finance Department during IDOT audits and reporting requirements
  • Track letters of credit, bonds, and other financial sureties posted by private developers, ensuring securities remain valid until all permitted improvements are completed and accepted.
  • Coordinate with the Finance Department regarding renewals, releases, and monitoring of developer guarantees.
  • Collaborate with Public Works Superintendents, Supervisors, and Engineering staff to improve administrative processes and departmental efficiency.
  • Assist Public Works and Engineering staff with special projects and assignments as directed.
  • Communicate effectively with City departments, consultants, contractors, regulatory agencies, elected officials, and members of the public.
  • Provide responsive, professional customer service while fostering positive community relations.
  • Supervise Administrative Assistants and other staff as assigned.
  • May supervise Public Works work groups or project teams on special assignments.
  • Follow all applicable safety procedures and promote a safe working environment.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

Preferred Experience
Successful candidates will demonstrate:
  • Knowledge of public administration principles, office management practices, and municipal operations.
  • Knowledge of budgeting, financial reporting, purchasing, and contract administration.
  • Knowledge of public procurement procedures, bid preparation, and contract management.
  • Understanding of construction contracts, change orders, pay estimates, quantity-based contracts, and engineering documentation.
  • Knowledge of the Illinois Motor Fuel Tax (MFT) Program and IDOT requirements is preferred.
  • Ability to prepare, administer, and monitor annual operating budgets and multi-year capital improvement budgets.
  • Ability to review and interpret contracts, bonds, insurance certificates, and legal documents.
  • Strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail.
  • Ability to prioritize multiple projects and meet deadlines.
  • Ability to quickly develop a comprehensive understanding of Public Works and Engineering operations.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the preparation of technical reports and presentations.
  • Strong customer service and interpersonal skills with the ability to build positive working relationships.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including:
    • Outlook
    • Word
    • Excel (including formulas and workbook development)
    • PowerPoint
    • Adobe Acrobat
  • General familiarity with database software and enterprise management systems.

Education
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Public Administration, Business Administration, Engineering, Construction Management, Finance, Mathematics, or a closely related field.
  • Master's degree in Public Administration (MPA), Business Administration (MBA), or a related discipline is preferred.

Experience
  • Three to five years of progressively responsible administrative, supervisory, or management experience in local government, public works, engineering, construction administration, or a closely related field.
  • An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that demonstrates the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may be considered.

Schedule and Compensation
This is an exempt position and the hours are generally Monday-Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Anticipated starting salary range is $86,192-$100,000, depending on qualifications, with a competitive benefits package including health, dental, vision and life insurance, participation in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF), paid time off, holidays and a 457 Plan. The full salary range is $86,192-$124,129.
Application Process
Qualified candidates should submit a completed employment application, letter of interest, and resume.
Final offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a background investigation and drug screening.
Applications will be reviewed as received. This position will remain open until filled.
The City of Crystal Lake provides an excellent benefit package to its full-time employees that includes medical, dental, vision, and life insurance as well as medical and dependent care flexible spending accounts, a retirement plan through Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund, paid holidays, paid vacation, and sick leave.

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