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Public Works Manager Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS An Associate's Degree or the equivalent in civil engineering, construction management, or a public works-related field, preferred. Five (5) or more years of ...

Water Distribution Supervisor

Flint, MI · On-site

$35.60 - $39.47/hr

An Associate's Degree or the equivalent in civil engineering, construction management, or a public works-related field, preferred. * Five (5) or more years of progressively more responsible ...

Cost Estimator

Detroit, MI · On-site

$105K - $115K/yr

Strong working knowledge of municipal and public works bidding processes * Ability to read and ... Strong attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple bids and deadlines Preferred ...

Cost Estimator

Southfield, MI · On-site

$105K - $115K/yr

Strong working knowledge of municipal and public works bidding processes * Ability to read and ... Strong attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple bids and deadlines Preferred ...

Interim City Manager

Saline, MI · On-site

$110 - $140/hr

Public Works * Community Development/Building * Water and Wastewater Operations * Utilities ... Manage capital improvement projects and monitor organizational priorities in alignment with the ...

Showing results 41-60

Public Works Manager information

See Michigan salary details

$31.4K

$75.5K

$124.2K

How much do public works manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for public works manager in Michigan is $75,452.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,200.00 and $92,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a public works manager?

Public Works Managers are professionals responsible for overseeing the planning, construction, maintenance, and repair of public infrastructure and services in a city or municipality. Their duties often include managing teams, coordinating projects related to roads, water supply, sewers, and public buildings, and ensuring compliance with regulations and budgets. They play a crucial role in maintaining the quality and safety of community facilities and services, working closely with government officials, contractors, and the public.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a public works manager?

To thrive as a Public Works Manager, you need a solid background in civil engineering or public administration, often supported by a relevant degree and several years of supervisory experience. Familiarity with project management software, budgeting tools, and regulatory compliance systems is typically required, along with certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) or Certified Public Works Professional (CPWP). Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are essential soft skills for managing teams and engaging with community stakeholders. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure efficient operations, regulatory adherence, and the successful delivery of public infrastructure projects.

What are some typical challenges a public works manager faces when coordinating projects with multiple departments and external contractors?

Public Works Managers often encounter challenges related to coordinating schedules, ensuring clear communication, and aligning priorities among different city departments and external contractors. These projects can involve tight deadlines, budget constraints, and compliance with regulatory standards. Successful managers use strong project management skills, maintain open lines of communication, and foster collaborative relationships to address issues promptly and keep projects on track. Being adaptable and proactive is essential for resolving conflicts and ensuring public works initiatives are completed efficiently.

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

AspectPublic Works ManagerPublic Works Supervisor
ResponsibilitiesOversees multiple departments, manages budgets, and develops policiesSupervises daily operations, manages staff, and ensures project completion
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in public administration, civil engineering, or related field; often requires management experienceHigh school diploma or equivalent; relevant experience in public works or construction
Work EnvironmentOffice-based with site visits; strategic planning focusFieldwork and site supervision; hands-on management
Industry UsageCommonly employed by city or county governments, municipalitiesTypically found in municipal departments, construction firms, or public agencies

The Public Works Manager focuses on strategic planning, budgeting, and overseeing multiple teams, while the Public Works Supervisor handles daily operations and staff supervision. Both roles are essential in public infrastructure projects but differ mainly in scope and level of responsibility.

How to become a certified public works manager?

To become a certified public works manager, candidates typically need a combination of relevant education such as a bachelor's degree in public administration, engineering, or a related field, along with several years of experience in public works or infrastructure management. Certification programs, such as the Certified Public Works Professional (CPWP) offered by professional associations, often require passing an exam and demonstrating leadership skills in public works projects. Continuing education and professional development are also important for maintaining certification and advancing in the field.

Is a public works manager a stressful job?

Public works managers often face stress due to managing large-scale projects, tight deadlines, and coordinating with multiple departments. The role requires strong organizational skills, problem-solving, and the ability to handle emergencies or unexpected issues, which can contribute to job-related stress.

What are the most commonly searched types of Public Works jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Public Works jobs in Michigan are:

What job categories do people searching Public Works Manager jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Public Works Manager jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Public Works Manager jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Public Works Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Public Works Manager job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,452 per year, or $36.3 per hour.

Water Distribution Supervisor

City of Flint

Flint, MI

$35.60 - $39.47/hr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Pre-Employment Requirements Employment is contingent upon successful completion of all applicable pre-employment screenings and verification of eligibility to work in the United States, in accordance with applicable laws, civil service rules, and collective bargaining agreements. GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES Directs the installation, maintenance and repair of the City of Flint's water distribution, storm and sanitary sewer systems; directs water distribution data section; perform related work as required. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Directs the construction, maintenance and repair of the City of Flint's water distribution system.

Supervised work program of data section. Supervises, plans and lays out the work procedures and schedules for water distribution functions including construction and maintenance, cross-connection investigating and MISS DIG utility protection system; meter repair shop and garage, including maintenance of vehicles and equipment; stockroom, division and water service center grounds. Inspects work in progress in all areas of operations; reviews and approves activity reports of subordinates; approves payrolls at the division level.

Prepares estimates for water main and sewer projects, large service lines, hydrant installations, etc. Write specifications for water distribution and sewer maintenance vehicles, construction and maintenance equipment purchases. Writes up-to-date specifications for meters, valves, hydrants, pipe, cast iron fittings and miscellaneous items.

Prepares contracts for major building additions, painting and repairs and water main work. Confers with engineers and other representatives of the State Highway and State Health Department, County Sewers and Water Services, Consulting Firms, U.S. Corp of Engineers, Fire Insurance Companies, Contractors, Attorneys, all levels of City government utility companies, private industries, other jurisdictions, Board of Education, architects and the general public on Water Distribution

Investigates damage claims against the Water and Sewer Division and makes recommendations on resolution to administration. Confers with DPW Director regarding activities and general policies and makes recommendations for new equipment. Prepares and manages the cost center budget and annual activities report of the water service center; requisitions all materials; makes recommendations for budget adjustments.

Responds to emergency situations, checking broken water mains, service lines and fire hydrants Determines effects, results and action to be taken. May supervise activities of repair crew. Confers with other supervisors in Water and Water Pollution Control Division concerning coordinated activities and extending aid on various projects.

Ensures that customer complaints/call-ins are properly documented (entered into a database/tracking system). Ensures complaints/call-ins receive prompt and appropriate follow-up. Establishes distribution system Level of Service (LoS) goals (typically defined as the number of customer complaints per 1000 accounts), periodically compare staff performance against the LoS goals, and make necessary changes to the LoS goals and/or the City's customer complaint procedures to ensure satisfactory customer response.

MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS An Associate's Degree or the equivalent in civil engineering, construction management, or a public works-related field, preferred. Five (5) or more years of progressively more responsible experience in public works and water systems, including supervisory duties. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES: Thorough knowledge of the methods, practices and equipment used in a water distribution including water mains, service connection, fire hydrants, water meters, catch basins, inlets, siphons, pumping stations and sewer laterals and interceptors.

Considerable knowledge of the principles and practices of civil engineering as applied to water main construction, maintenance and repair. Ability to plan, layout and direct water and sewer service and maintenance activities. Ability to read and interpret drawings, blue prints and specifications as applied to pipeline construction and maintenance, ability to prepare equipment and parts specifications; ability to prepare estimates of materials and cost(s).

Working knowledge of and ability to operate a computer utilizing word processing and spreadsheet software. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with the public, subordinates, city officials, company representatives and regulatory agencies. Ability to effectively communicate in written and verbal formats to public, sub-ordinates, city officials, company representatives and regulatory agencies.

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENT(S): Possession of a valid Michigan Driver's License. Possession of a valid Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) S-1 Waterworks Systems Operator Certification. Must possess and maintain a valid Michigan EGLE S-1 Waterworks Systems Operator Certification and serve as, or be designated to serve as, the Operator in Charge (OIC) of the City's water distribution system.

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION Physical Demands: The employee occasionally works near moving mechanical parts and is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions, fumes or airborne particles, traffic, toxic or caustic chemicals, risk of electrical shock, and vibration. The employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, feel or operate objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to sit; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; talk or hear; and smell.

The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move more than 100 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. Hand-eye coordination is necessary to operate computers and various pieces of office equipment.

You must meet the minimum entrance requirements and attach supporting documentation to be considered for employment. Failure to supply required documentation (i.e. Transcripts, Driver's License, and incomplete application) will result in disqualification for consideration)

Employees hired by the City must maintain residency as follows: Exempt - within 25 miles of the nearest boundary of the City of Flint. Please be sure to complete the application in full. Resumes may be uploaded with your application, but will not be accepted in lieu of a fully completed application and will not be considered for qualifying credit.

"See Resume" or "See Attachment" will NOT be accepted. The job description does not constitute an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills. It is also not an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.

Submitting an application does not guarantee that you will be contacted for further consideration. Applicants selected for an interview will be contacted directly by the hiring department. Due to varying hiring timelines and recruitment processes, not all applicants may receive notification of the final hiring decision.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement The City of Flint is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other legally protected status. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Notice Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to participate in the hiring or selection process should contact the Human Resources Department.