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Public Works Director Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Local Agency Engineering Associates

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Public Works Inspector

Placentia, CA · On-site

Project Base Company Description A Project/Construction Management, Staff Augmentation (Consultant City Engineer, Public Works Director) and Public works Inspection firm. Applications without the ...

Local Agency Engineering Associates

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Public Works Inspector

Placentia, CA · On-site

Project Base Company Description A Project/Construction Management, Staff Augmentation (Consultant City Engineer, Public Works Director) and Public works Inspection firm. Applications without the ...

Local Agency Engineering Associates

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Civil/Public Works Engineer (Full-time)

Placentia, CA · On-site

$45 - $125/hr

Company Description A Project/Construction Management, Staff Augmentation (Consultant City Engineer, Public Works Director) and Public works Inspection firm. Applications without the appropriate ...

City of Placentia

Public Works Inspector

Placentia, CA · On-site

$68K - $84K/yr

Under the direction of the Deputy Director of Public Works, the Public Works Inspector performs skilled and detailed inspections of engineering construction, maintenance, and public works projects ...

Local Agency Engineering Associates

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Civil/Public Works Engineer (Full-time)

Placentia, CA · On-site

$45 - $125/hr

Company Description A Project/Construction Management, Staff Augmentation (Consultant City Engineer, Public Works Director) and Public works Inspection firm. Applications without the appropriate ...

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All JobsPublic Works JobsPublic Works Director JobsPublic Works Director Jobs in Riverside, CA

Public Works Director information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$50.1K

$141K

$213.3K

How much do public works director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for public works director in Riverside, CA is $140,952.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $112,200.00 and $169,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do you need a degree to be a public works director?

A degree is often preferred for a public works director position, typically in fields like civil engineering, public administration, or related areas. Relevant experience, certifications, and knowledge of public infrastructure and management are also important qualifications for the role.

What does a public works director do?

A Public Works Director oversees the planning, organization, and management of a city's public infrastructure and services. This includes responsibilities such as maintaining roads, water and sewer systems, public buildings, and sanitation services. The director leads teams, manages budgets, ensures compliance with regulations, and coordinates projects that impact the community's safety and quality of life. They also work with other government officials and the public to address infrastructure needs and concerns.

What does a public works director do?

Public works directors are city government employees. As a public works director, you report to the city manager and collaborate with other high-level city officials to carry out your duties. Your main responsibilities are to manage several departments in the city government and to develop long-term community improvement plans. Some of your tasks are managerial, such as hiring, evaluating, and firing public works employees. Others are administrative, like overseeing public works projects, budgets, and outcomes. You present development plan proposals to city management and assist the city manager.

What is the difference between Public Works Director vs City Engineer?

AspectPublic Works DirectorCity Engineer
CredentialsOften requires civil engineering degree, PE license, and management experienceTypically requires civil engineering degree and PE license
Work EnvironmentOversees public infrastructure projects, maintenance, and operationsFocuses on designing, planning, and supervising engineering projects
Employer & IndustryMunicipal government, public sectorMunicipal government, public sector

The Public Works Director and City Engineer roles often overlap in credentials and work environment, but the Public Works Director has broader management responsibilities overseeing all public infrastructure and services, while the City Engineer primarily focuses on engineering design and project planning within the city.

What are some common challenges faced by a public works director when managing multiple infrastructure projects simultaneously?

A Public Works Director often oversees several infrastructure projects at once, which requires careful prioritization, resource allocation, and team coordination. Common challenges include balancing limited budgets, addressing unforeseen issues such as inclement weather or supply chain delays, and ensuring compliance with local regulations. Effective communication with city officials, contractors, and the public is also critical to keep projects on track and maintain transparency. Strong organizational skills and adaptability are essential to successfully manage these competing demands.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a public works director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Public Works Director, you need a strong background in civil engineering, public administration, and project management, often supported by a relevant degree and significant supervisory experience. Familiarity with budgeting software, asset management systems, and regulatory compliance tools is typically required. Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills distinguish top candidates in this role. These competencies ensure the efficient delivery and maintenance of public infrastructure, regulatory compliance, and effective team management.
More about Public Works Director jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Public Works jobs in Riverside, CA?

The most popular types of Public Works jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Public Works Director jobs in Riverside, CA?

For Public Works Director jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Public Works Director jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Public Works Director jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Public Works Director jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Public Works Director job openings:

Public Works Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Works Director job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $140,952 per year, or $67.8 per hour.

Public Works Manager

Morongo Employment Opportunities

Banning, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Under the direction of the Public Works Director, plan, organize, control and Manage the operations, services and activities of the Public Works department; coordinate and manage personnel, resources, projects and communications to meet tribal needs and assure smooth and efficient Department activities; supervise and evaluate the performance of assigned personnel.

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