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Public Works Manager Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

HonorVet Technologies

Administrative Assistant

Providence, RI · On-site

$18.25 - $24.50/hr

... Public Safety and Emergency Management. * This role works as part of the Events Bureau team to facilitate the coordination of campus security details, assisting with everything from the initial ...

Garage Headquarters

Payroll Specialist

Warwick, RI · On-site

$23 - $31.25/hr

This position works closely with Human Resources, Accounting, Operations, and Project Management to ... Prepare and submit certified payroll reports for prevailing wage and public works projects.

USAJOBS - Search

ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN

Newport, RI · On-site

$89K/yr

You will serve as an Engineering Technician (Construction) in the Public Works Department of of ... Additional qualification information can be found from the following Office of Personnel Management ...

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All JobsPublic Works JobsPublic Works Manager JobsPublic Works Manager Jobs in Rhode Island

Public Works Manager information

See Rhode Island salary details

$35.3K

$84.8K

$139.6K

How much do public works manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for public works manager in Rhode Island is $84,777.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,200.00 and $104,300.00 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 Rhode Island?

The most popular types of Public Works jobs in Rhode Island are:

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

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

What cities in Rhode Island are hiring for Public Works Manager jobs?

Cities in Rhode Island with the most Public Works Manager job openings:

Public Works Manager jobs near you

Assistant University Purchasing Agent (Construction)

Kingston, RI • On-site

University of Rhode Island
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 1 - 5K employees

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

169th of 627 rated colleges and universities

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students

Learn more about University of Rhode Islandexternal

$65K - $74K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Posting Details
Position Information
Posting Number
SF02173
Job Title
Assistant University Purchasing Agent (Construction)
Position Number
109329
FTE
1.00
FLSA
Exempt
Position Type
Professional Staff
Union
PSA/NEA - Professional Staff Assoc
Pay Grade Level
Grade Level: 10
Pay Grade Range
Anticipated Hiring Salary Range: $65,000 - $74,000
Status
Calendar Year, Full-time, Permanent
Department Information
Department
Purchasing Dept
Contact(s)
Please note: Job applications must be submitted directly online only at: (https://jobs.uri.edu)
Contact Phone/Extension
Contact Email
Physical Demands
Campus Location
Kingston
Grant Funded
No
Extension Contingency Notes
Job Description Summary
The search will remain open until the position has been filled. First consideration will be given to applications received by July 20, 2026. Applications received after July 20, 2026 may be reviewed depending on search progress and needs but are not guaranteed full consideration.
About URI: The University of Rhode Island enrolls approximately 17,000 students across its graduate and undergraduate programs and is the State's flagship public research university, as well as the land grant and sea grant university, for the state of Rhode Island. The main campus is located in the historic village of Kingston, and the Bay Campus is located in Narragansett. Both campuses are near major beaches in a beautiful coastal community. URI is just 30 minutes from Providence, RI and within easy reach of Newport, Boston, and New York City.
THE OPPORTUNITY FOR A HYBRID WORK SCHEDULE IS POSSIBLE AFTER SIX MONTHS.
POSTING SUMMARY:
Assist the University Purchasing Manager (Construction) in managing and daily procurement functions for the University's campuses, which include the procurement functions of the academic, administrative and research community; with a primary focus on the construction and facilities operations activities on all campuses. This role ensures timely sourcing, purchasing and documentation of materials and services required for construction and public works projects while maintaining compliance with regulatory standards.
Duties and Responsibilities
KEY ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Assist in the administration of the procurement operations of all campuses to ensure compliance with state rules and regulations and general laws.
Participate in the development, management and implementation of programs and standards as they relate to the University's purchasing policies and procedures.
Assist in the development and implementation of contracts and agreements related to procurement activities, with a focus on construction and facilities operations.
Assist in the development and implementation of various ERP modules or related procurement software.
Develop and conduct public bid solicitations (RFIs, RFPs, RFBs, etc.) to procure construction and public works related to goods and services exceeding certain defined thresholds working in conjunction with the Purchasing Manager (Construction).
Prepare purchase order documentation.
Serve as a Purchasing Department liaison with the community to ensure customer satisfaction.
Ensure that they have sufficient knowledge and understanding of the processes and the financial system which will provide maximum benefit to their activities as well as this Department.
Assist in preparing and presenting management reports on purchasing activities regarding the various fund sources and document utilization.
Coordinate with project managers and the facilities group on purchase requests and requirements.
Serve as the Purchasing Department liaison with external state agencies focused on construction and public works and assist with the development of policies and procedures for the University Purchasing Department.
OTHER DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Assist in conducting training sessions with the Purchasing Manager (Construction) for other offices and departments throughout the University on the policies and procedures of the Purchasing Section; with a focus on construction related activities.
Perform advanced technical work and supervision in the procurement of complex goods or services including the negotiation processes involved.
Evaluate procedures and forms being used and recommend necessary revisions to promote efficiency and effectiveness.
Provide user level information on the automated procurement system to the Purchasing Agent for further development and recommend changes to promote efficiency.
LICENSES, TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT:
Personal computers, printers and word processing, database management and spreadsheet software; Microsoft programs, automated procurement system(s), virtual meeting and team platforms (Google. Zoom, Webex, Teams, SharePoint, etc.) .
Required Qualifications
QUALIFICATIONS
REQUIRED:
1. Bachelor's degree.
2. Minimum two years of purchasing related experience in public or private employment.
3. Experience working with construction, construction management, operations, and/or public works related activities (i.e. purchasing experience with public works bidding, negotiations, etc.).
4. Demonstrated organization skills.
5. Demonstrated strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills.
6. Demonstrated proficiency in written communications skills.
7. Demonstrated experience with Microsoft Office programs (including Word and Excel).
8. Demonstrated problem solving skills.
9. Demonstrated experience with virtual collaboration platforms and enterprise communication software (Google, Microsoft Teams, Webex, Zoom, Sharepoint, etc.).
10. Demonstrated ability to work with diverse groups/populations.
Preferred Qualifications
PREFERRED:
1. Demonstrated PeopleSoft, Workday or other similar e-procurement financial system experience.
URI is unwavering in its commitment to equal opportunity, community, equity, and diversity. In furtherance of its mission to serve and support all learners as the state's public flagship university, URI continues to expand efforts to recruit and retain a broadly representative workforce as well as to regularly evaluate the effectiveness of those efforts. All employment decisions, including hiring, are made without regard to protected status. Qualified individuals with disabilities may request a reasonable accommodation by contacting the URI benefits office at 401-874-2416. For TTY assistance, contact R.I. Relay Services at 711.
Environmental Conditions
The incumbent is not substantially exposed to adverse environmental conditions.
Posting Date
Closing Date
Special Instructions to Applicants
Please attach the following 2 (PDF) documents to your online Employment Application:
(#1) Cover letter.
(#2) Resume.
Note: References will be upon request by the search committee.
Quicklink for Posting
https://jobs.uri.edu/postings/16801

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