1

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

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED Receives general direction from the Director of Public Works. May exercise direct, functional or technical supervision over contract, technical, and clerical staff.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED Receives general direction from the Director of Public Works. May exercise direct, functional or technical supervision over contract, technical, and clerical staff.

Electrical Foreman

Colton, CA · On-site

$49/hr

... (DIR). Electrician Trainee (ET) cards do not qualify. * OSHA 30 (Construction), NFPA 70E, and current CPR / First Aid. * Public works infrastructure electrical experience -- traffic signals, roadway ...

Electrical Foreman

Colton, CA · On-site

$49 - $51/hr

... (DIR). Electrician Trainee (ET) cards do not qualify. * OSHA 30 (Construction), NFPA 70E, and current CPR / First Aid. * Public works infrastructure electrical experience - traffic signals, roadway ...

Electrical Foreman

Colton, CA · On-site

$72 - $95/hr

... (DIR). Electrician Trainee (ET) cards do not qualify. * OSHA 30 (Construction), NFPA 70E, and current CPR / First Aid. * Public works infrastructure electrical experience - traffic signals, roadway ...

Labor Compliance Manager

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

... direct input and advice to senior LMS leadership. You will be a go-to resource for day-to-day contract interpretation questions and public works needs, helping members fulfill their CBA obligations ...

Survey Project Manager

Riverside, CA · On-site

$95K - $125K/yr

Minimum five (5) years of progressive surveying and mapping experience, preferably supporting private land development and public works projects. * Leadership Depth: Minimum three (3) years of direct ...

Showing results 41-60

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.

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:

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.

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Classification Definition

DEFINITION

To perform a wide variety of complex and professional work in the planning, organizing, and coordination of the City's special projects including Capital Improvement Projects (CIP) in the water and wastewater within the Public Works Department; to monitor and evaluate the execution of assigned projects; and to professional and technical staff assistance relative to assigned area of responsibility.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receives general direction from the Director of Public Works. 

May exercise direct, functional or technical supervision over contract, technical, and clerical staff.

Essential Duties and Responsiblities

Essential Functions:

1. Performs a variety of complex administrative, operational and analytical duties; performs a variety of professional and complex analyses, studies and research projects; coordinates and monitors Public Works Utilities projects.

2. Participates in project planning, project management and the communication of planning, policy and programs with City staff, the public, and contract vendors; identifies issues, collects data, analyzes alternatives and make recommendations; prepares and monitors project schedules; and writes specifications and special revisions for construction documents.

3. Implements new systems, methods and procedures; monitors program progress in meeting goals and objectives; conducts updates with management staff to inform and advise on project progress; makes adjustments as necessary.

4. Analyses bid packages from Public Works contractors; administers construction contracts for Public Works construction and may perform inspection duties when needed; develops preliminary project concepts; develops cost estimates; prepares Capital Improvement Program worksheets and monitors Capital Improvement Program and implementation.

5. Prepares grant applications; communicates with employees and the public on procedure revisions; communicates with Federal, State, and County agencies on matters of funding and City compliance with applicable standards.

6. Negotiates and resolves construction disputes; while avoiding construction claims; assists with claims defense; assists in the evaluation and negotiation of change orders; drafts change orders and recommends approval of payments to contractors; and tracks and monitors budget expenditures of projects.

7. Analyzes Federal, State, and local legislative proposals for impact on assigned operations; prepares analysis and briefings on enacted legislation, judicial interpretations, and regulatory agency directives for department compliance.

8. Coordinates department activities with those of other departments, outside agencies and organizations; serves as the liaison for the assigned department with other departments and outside agencies; negotiates and resolves sensitive and controversial issues.

9. Participates in the development and implementation of goals, objectives, policies and priorities; recommends and implements resulting policies and procedures.

10. Provides staff assistance to department head; participates on a variety of committees; prepares and presents staff reports and other necessary correspondence.

11. Plans, prioritizes, assigns, reviews and participates in the work of staff responsible for providing services and activities in assigned area; establishes schedules and methods for providing assigned services; trains assigned employees in their area of work; ensures work quality and adherence to established policies and procedures.

12. Oversees and manages contracted services in assigned program areas; prepares requests for proposals for contracted professional services; evaluates submissions; recommends contract award; negotiates terms of contract and prepares contracts; monitors services to ensure compliance with contractual obligations.

13. Prepares grant applications; implements and monitors grant programs; monitors grant expenditures to ensure compliance with grant contractual obligations; submits quarterly and annual reports.

14. Monitors the efficiency and effectiveness of service delivery methods and procedures; recommends, within departmental policy, appropriate service and staffing levels.

15. Attends and participates in professional group meetings; stays abreast of new trends and innovations in the field of civil engineering.

16. Performs related duties and responsibilities as required.

Minimum Qualifications

EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING GUIDELINES Minimum requirements as a condition of hire:

Experience:

Three years of Public Works Construction experience. Municipal governmental experience is desirable.

Training:

Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in Public Administration, Civil Engineering, Urban Planning or a related field.

Licenses and Certifications

Possession of a State of California driver's license.

Possession of Project Management Professional (PMP) certificate is desirable.

Knowledge of:

  • Operations and functions of municipal government.
  • Public or non-profit administration with particular reference to capital and special projects.
  • Principles and practices of construction management, contract administration, and bid processes.
  • Methods and techniques of project management.
  • Modern and complex principles and practices of engineering design and construction.
  • Methods and techniques of data collection, research and report preparation.
  • Methods of administrative, organizational, economic and procedural analysis.
  • Methods and techniques of statistical and financial analysis.
  • Principles and practices of budget preparation and control.
  • Methods and techniques of grant program administration.
  • Principles of supervision, training and performance evaluation as assigned.
  • Pertinent Federal, State and local laws, codes and regulations.
  • Modern office procedures and methods including computer equipment and supporting word processing and spreadsheet applications.

Ability to:

  • Ensure project compliance with appropriate Federal, State and local rules, laws and regulations.
  • Coordinate phases of construction projects and prepare progress reports.
  • Analyze problems, identify alternative solutions, project consequences of proposed actions, and implement recommendations in support of goals.
  • Direct and participate in various complex organizational studies and analyses.
  • Understand the organization and operation of the City, assigned department, and outside agencies as necessary to assume assigned responsibilities.
  • Perform administrative and analytical activities for assigned programs.
  • Collect, evaluate and interpret complex information and data.
  • Review and analyze technical documents and proposals.
  • Interpret and apply administrative and department policies and procedures.
  • Research, analyze and evaluate programs, policies and procedures.
  • Participate in budget development and administration activities as assigned.
  • Supervise, train and evaluate assigned staff.
  • Maintain accurate records and files.
  • Operate office equipment including computers and supporting word processing and spreadsheet applications.
  • Interpret, apply and explain pertinent laws, policies, rules and regulations.
  • Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work including City officials and the general public.
  • Maintain physical condition appropriate to the performance of assigned duties and responsibilities.
Supplemental Information

Application Procedure:

A City application form and supplemental questionnaire (if applicable) MUST be submitted and received by the closing date. Please apply online at www.yourrialto.com. All other employment inquiries can be directed to The City of Rialto, Human Resources Department. 246 S. Willow, Rialto, CA 92376. Telephone: (909) 820-2540.

Selection Process: 

Candidates must clearly demonstrate through their application material that they meet the employment standards outlined above. All properly completed applications will be reviewed, and the most appropriately qualified individuals will be invited to continue in the selection process. Examinations for the positions may consist of any combination of written, performance, and oral exams to evaluate the applicant's skills, training, and experience for the position. Successful applicants will be placed on an eligibility list. The City may also merge lists. The selected candidate(s) must successfully complete pre-employment clearances which may include a physical, drug screen, and fingerprinting. 

Veterans Preference Credit Eligibility:

Veterans of the armed forces, who have been discharged or released from active duty under conditions other than dishonorable (Government Code: 18540.4), shall receive an additional five (5) points to their final examination score for ranking purposes only. This preference will apply only to the first appointment to any regular full-time City appointment. A copy of your valid DD214 must be submitted on or before the final filing date in order to be eligible for Veterans Preference Credit. For more information, please see the City's Veteran's Preference Policy. 

E-Verify:

The City of Rialto is an E-Verify employer. E-Verify is an internet based system operated by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in partnership with the Social Security Administration (SSA) that allows participating employers to electronically verify the employment eligibility of newly hired employees in the United States.