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Public Works Manager Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Public Works Director

Hopewell, VA ยท On-site

$160K/yr

Manages construction contracts for the City; oversees project management for the construction of the municipal public works projects; coordinates and monitors the work of contractors; makes field ...

Manages construction contracts for the City; oversees project management for the construction of the municipal public works projects; coordinates and monitors the work of contractors; makes field ...

Public Works Technician

Lynchburg, VA ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Leading the Way in Water Management Inframark's Operations and Maintenance team is an award-winning team that delivers cutting-edge water, wastewater, and public works services to municipalities ...

Public Works Superintendent

VA ยท On-site

$78K - $90K/yr

Public Works, VA Job Type: Regular Full-Time Job Number: PW060426 Department: Public Works Opening ... Manages assigned divisions and staff ; assists with the recruitment and selection of division ...

Director of Public Works

Norfolk, VA ยท On-site

$172K - $249K/yr

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

Public Works Crew Leader

Lynchburg, VA ยท On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Leading the Way in Water Management Inframark's Operations and Maintenance team is an award-winning team that delivers cutting-edge water, wastewater, and public works services to municipalities ...

This role is responsible for driving execution in the field, managing crews, subcontractors ... Support public relations efforts on projects impacting traffic or communities. Cost Awareness

This role is responsible for driving execution in the field, managing crews, subcontractors ... Support public relations efforts on projects impacting traffic or communities. Cost Awareness

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Showing results 1-20

Public Works Manager information

See Virginia salary details

$35.7K

$85.8K

$141.3K

How much do public works manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for public works manager in Virginia is $85,825.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,900.00 and $105,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Public Works jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Public Works jobs in Virginia are:
What job categories do people searching Public Works Manager jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Public Works Manager jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Public Works Manager jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Public Works Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Public Works Manager job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,825 per year, or $41.3 per hour.

Public Works Director

City of Hopewell

Hopewell, VA โ€ข On-site

$160K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Description Performs complex professional work planning, organizing, directing, and administering the activities of the department including street maintenance, building maintenance, stormwater program, fleet maintenance, solid waste collections, and construction project management, and related work as apparent or assigned. Work involves setting policies and goals. Departmental supervision is exercised over all personnel.

Examples of Duties Directs and coordinates the operations of stormwater management, building construction and maintenance, street and drainage maintenance, grounds maintenance, cemetery operations, solid waste collection, management of inactive landfills, and fleet services. Manages construction contracts for the City; oversees project management for the construction of the municipal public works projects; coordinates and monitors the work of contractors; makes field inspections of public works or engineering projects to review progress, ensures completion and compliance with contract requirements. Works closely with the City Council, City Manager, Deputy City Manager, other City departments, and a variety of public and private organizations in developing programs and implementing projects to solve problems related to public works issues.

Participates in planning activities for the City; serves as a member of the Metropolitan Planning Organization and the Central Virginia Waste Management Organization. Evaluates and develops City ordinances and policies for effectiveness and appropriateness. Supervise and participate in the development and administration of the Public Works Department, division, and capital improvement budgets; direct the forecast of additional funds needed for staffing, equipment, materials and supplies; monitor and approve expenditures.

Coordinates and/or facilitates department activities with the needs of other City departments. Receives and responds to inquiries, complaints and explains department programs to citizens; investigates and takes necessary actions. Serves as the City's resource for technical engineering expertise; provides engineering consultations with staff and community.

Recruits and selects department personnel; assigns, directs, trains, and inspects the work of staff; rewards, disciplines, coaches, counsels, and evaluates staff performance; develops staff schedules; recommends transfers, promotions, suspensions, terminations, and demotions. Ensures the proper safety training and practices of staff. Work beyond normal business hours, attend evening meetings and/or perform weekend work, and travel.

Typical Qualifications Minimum Education and Experience: Bachelor's degree in civil engineering or a related field and extensive progressively responsible experience in civil engineering and public works services, maintenance and operations, including considerable supervisory experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Licenses and/or Certifications: Registration as a Professional Engineer in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Valid driver's license in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Knowledge: Thorough knowledge of civil engineering principles and best practices. Extensive knowledge of construction inspections, quality control methods and practices, and of municipal public works administration. Skills: Leadership and communication skills.

Strong technical problem solving and analytical skills. Abilities: Ability to deal with multiple projects/issues concurrently. Ability to work with others and to communicate engineering solutions clearly and concisely.

Other Requirements: Ability to work on rotating shifts during snow and natural emergencies. Supplemental Information Work Environment: Work is primarily performed indoors but is exposed to temperamental changes (warehouses, covered loading docks, garages, etc.) or extreme noise, odors, heights and/or dust. Essential Physical Activities: Stooping, crouching, walking, lifting, grasping, hearing, seeing up close, seeing far away, kneeling, reaching, talking, standing, finger movement, depth perception

Typical weight handled: up to 75 lbs. DISCLAIMER: The above information on this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.