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Manager Department Public Works Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Director of Public Works

Norfolk, VA ยท On-site

$172K - $249K/yr

... Department of Public Works. The Director of Public Works is a key member of the City Manager ... Executive Management team overseeing all functions involved in the design, construction, and ...

Director of Public Works

Victoria, TX ยท On-site

$122K - $148K/yr

Establish and manage departmental goals, policies, and operational procedures to support ... of progressive public works experience, including supervisory or managerial roles Valid Texas ...

DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS

Bridgewater, MA ยท On-site

$127K - $171K/yr

Under the general administrative direction, to serve as the principal administrative officer for the Public Works Department; to plan, direct, review, and manage department activities and operations ...

Public Works Director

Freeport, TX ยท On-site

$95K - $139K/yr

Public Works Director DEPARTMENT: Administration-Public Works RATE CLASS: Exempt REPORTS TO: City Manager SHIFT: 7:30AM-4:30 PM, M-F (May be changed at the discretion of the City of Freeport ...

Under the supervision of the Director of Public Works, manages the Highway, Cemetery, Parks, Transfer Station, and Facilities Departments. * Assist in engineering, design, and construction projects ...

Director, Public Works

Bowie, MD ยท On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Public Works Director THE CANDIDATE The City of Bowie is seeking a proven and experienced ... City Manager, City Council, department heads, employees, contractors, regional partners, and ...

Public Works Director

Bowie, MD ยท On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Public Works Director THE CANDIDATE The City of Bowie is seeking a proven and experienced ... City Manager, City Council, department heads, employees, contractors, regional partners, and ...

Public Works Inspector

Goleta, CA ยท On-site

$42.02 - $53.63/hr

ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT The Public Works Department is comprised of seven divisions include ... managing multiple projects, calmly handling complaints and problems from irate citizens or ...

Showing results 41-60

Manager Department Public Works information

See salary details

$36K

$86.6K

$142.5K

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

As of Sep 7, 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 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a manager of the Department of Public Works?

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 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.

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.

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:

Infographic showing various Manager Department Public Works job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,568 per year, or $41.6 per hour.

Public Works & Utilities Director

City of Clinton, NC

Clinton, NC โ€ข On-site

$97K - $107K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Salary : $97,000.00 - $107,000.00 Annually
Location : PW- 200 W John Street, Clinton, NC
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 112425
Department: Public Works-Entire
Division: Public Works
Opening Date: 11/24/2025
Description
Performs managerial, administrative, professional, and technical, work in directing the department. Plans, organizes and directs a variety of public works activities including: storm water management, streets maintenance, solid waste management, and fleet maintenance.
Distinguishing Features of the Class
An employee in this class is responsible for planning, organizing and directing the work of employees engaged in streets, cemetery and grounds, fleet maintenance, and stormwater systems construction, maintenance and repair and in solid waste management. Work includes providing technical guidance and support to management, elected officials, various boards and commissions and City staff. Work involves participation in long range planning for infrastructure needs, regulatory compliance, and service excellence; preparation and administration of capital and operating budgets; participating in oversight of capital improvement projects; addressing citizen issues and problems; and staff hiring and management. Work requires strong management knowledges and skills in budgeting, staff management, some engineering design knowledge, project management skills, and knowledge of human resource management and supervisory principles, practices and laws and regulations. Work subjects employee to inside and outside environmental conditions while construction projects are in process. The employee may be exposed to noise, equipment, fumes, and other possible safety hazards when inspecting projects. Considerable tact and courtesy are required in frequent public contact. Work is performed under direction of the City Manager and is evaluated through periodic conferences, written reports, and public acceptance of the utilities services and quality of water.
Examples of Duties
Essential Duties and Tasks
Researches and recommends long range plans and strategies for meeting citizen service needs; plans for short and long-range solid waste operations, streets construction and maintenance; stormwater management; maintenance and repair of public buildings; and maintenance and repairs or replacement of equipment; plans and projects related continuation and capital improvement budgets including contracts and internal projects.
Researches and recommends policy changes to the City Manager and Board.
Plans, manages and administers budget; oversees and approves expenditures; reviews invoices daily for purchases and reviews monthly statements from finance; consults with and/or keeps City Manager informed on major expenditures; develops and administers grants.
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; responds to citizen inquiries and complaints regarding streets, sidewalks, and stormwater issues; attends staff meetings and Board meetings to make presentations of provide advise as needed.
Reviews and prepares plans and specifications for maintenance, repair and construction projects; coordinates changes with contractors; monitors compliance with plans and specifications during the construction process; administers a wide variety of contracts.
Reviews site plans for development and ensures construction meets City needs; participates in technical review of all projects in the City, public and private..
Manages and supervises staff through supervisors; selects, hires, and promotes staff in collaboration with the City Manager; ensures appropriate training and maintenance of certifications, ensures staff performance excellence; meets frequently with subordinate supervisors to solve more complex problems; sets priorities and deadlines, and provides guidance and direction on daily and weekly basis to division supervisors; oversees and conducts performance evaluations, and handles disciplinary action for all employees; keeps Manager informed.
Plans, organizes, and monitors a variety of contracted work; coordinates with engineers and contractors; makes field inspections of public works and utilities projects to review progress and ensure completion.
Engages in considerable personal contact with citizens, contractors, builders, and other City departments, county and other governmental agencies concerning service requests and complaints; investigates and decides or recommends actions; coordinates projects with other departments.
Ensures OSHA compliance in all phases of the department's work; ensures safety training is provided and work is performed in compliance with safety standards and rules.
Responsible for preparation, maintenance and quality of a variety of reports such as Powell Bill data and Street Survey, Solid Waste Management Annual Report, and various annual reports for the Manager, Mayor and Board; ensures department maintains necessary data for management decision making.
Additional Job Duties
Performs other duties as assigned.
Recruitment and Selection Guidelines
Knowledges, Skills, and Abilities
Thorough knowledge of state and federal laws and regulations, local ordinances and standards, and departmental policies and procedures affecting municipal public works functions.
Thorough knowledge of the application of information technology to construction monitoring, office systems, and mapping.
Considerable knowledge of the coordination and administration of governmental capital projects.
Considerable knowledge of the City's budgeting, purchasing, and personnel policies and procedures.
Considerable knowledge of and demonstrated skills in using effective leadership, management and supervisory skills including hiring, mentoring, training, delegation, communication, motivation, and performance coaching and evaluation.
Knowledge of laws and regulations related to staff hiring and management.
Some knowledge of civil engineering principles and practices.
Skill in collaborative conflict resolution, public speaking and customer service excellence.
Ability to perform cost estimations, plan, design, and manage large municipal projects.
Ability to interpret prepare clear and concise reports and present findings and recommendations.
Ability to maintain effective working relationships and communicate effectively with City, State, regional and local officials and community leaders, other department heads, supervisor, employees, general public, and contractors.
Ability to present ideas effectively in oral and written form.
Ability to exercise sound judgment and initiative.
Ability to be tactful and to use diplomacy in dealing with the public, especially in handling and resolving complaints.
Typical Qualifications
Desirable Education and Experience
Graduation from a four year college or university with a major in public administration, civil engineering, business or related field and experience of a progressively responsible nature in public works management; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Prefer Master of Public Administration degree.
Special Requirement
Possession of a valid North Carolina driver's license.
Employee may be called upon in case of a disaster, either natural or man-made; to serve the Citizens of Clinton and failure to serve when required may result in personnel action. Service to the Citizens during a disaster may result in the assignment of other duties, which will take precedence over duties described in this job description.
All full-time regular employees are offered a comprehensive benefits package which includes vacation, sick leave and twelve holidays. Also available are medical, dental, vision, and life insurance. For an overview of the City of Clinton's benefits package offered please click here: