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Public Works Manager Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

City of Bowie

Public Works Director

Bowie, MD · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Additionally, a manager with the ability to foster an environment where employees feel motivated to perform at their highest level is a highly desirable quality. Bowie's next Public Works Director ...

City of Bowie, Maryland

Director, Public Works

Bowie, MD · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Additionally, a manager with the ability to foster an environment where employees feel motivated to perform at their highest level is a highly desirable quality. Bowie's next Public Works Director ...

Muller, Inc.

Superintendent, Public Works

Reston, VA · On-site

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

Muller, Inc.

Superintendent, Public Works

Reston, VA · On-site

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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Public Works Manager information

See Washington salary details

$40.8K

$98K

$161.4K

How much do public works manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for public works manager in Washington is $98,046.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,100.00 and $120,600.00 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 Washington? The most popular types of Public Works jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Public Works Manager jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Public Works Manager job openings:
Public Works Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Works Manager job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,046 per year, or $47.1 per hour.

Public Works Director

City of Bowie

Bowie, MD • On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Public Works Director
THE CANDIDATE
The City of Bowie is seeking a proven and experienced professional to serve as its next Public Works Director. The ideal candidate will have a broad background in all aspects of public works operations. This individual will be a skilled problem solver with the ability to communicate effectively with employees at all levels of the organization, as well as City residents. Additionally, a manager with the ability to foster an environment where employees feel motivated to perform at their highest level is a highly desirable quality.
Bowie's next Public Works Director should have a bachelor's degree in civil engineering or a closely related field, along with seven to ten years of progressively responsible experience in public works management in a municipal government or similar environment. Applicants with related private sector or military experience will also be considered. Possession of a professional engineer's license (PE), and/or a master's degree in engineering, public administration, Project Management or a related field are highly desirable.
The successful applicant will also possess the following attributes:
  • Knowledge of civil engineering, construction, infrastructure maintenance, utility operations, and public works management, and construction principles, practices, and methods;
  • Demonstrated skill in resolving public works issues involving contractors, City residents, developers, utility providers, regulatory agencies, and other governmental partners;
  • Ability to provide strong and effective leadership to division managers, mid-level supervisors, field personnel, technical staff, administrative staff, and varied operations;
  • Ability to establish effective working relationships with the City Manager, City Council, department heads, employees, contractors, regional partners, and residents;
  • Ability to identify, recommend, and implement efficient organizational processes, service standards, operating procedures, and protocols;
  • Experience managing operating and capital budgets, contracts, procurement processes, equipment needs, and major capital improvement projects;
  • Commitment to workplace safety, regulatory compliance, emergency preparedness, environmental stewardship, and high-quality resident service;
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to explain technical, operational, financial, and infrastructure issues to non-technical audiences.

THE POSITION
Reporting to the City Manager, the Director of Public Works is a member of the City's senior management team. Responsibilities of this position will include, but not be limited to:
  • Planning, directing, and overseeing the activities of the Public Works Department's eight operating divisions and major service areas.
  • Providing leadership and coordination for street maintenance, sidewalks, curbs and gutters, streetlights, snow and ice control, stormwater management, solid waste and recycling collection, fleet and equipment maintenance, engineering review and permitting, capital projects, water treatment and distribution, and wastewater collection and treatment.
  • Preparing, prioritizing, and administering annual department budget for presentation and review by the City Manager and City Council.
  • Recommending staffing, equipment, vehicle, facility, technology, infrastructure, rate, fee, contract, and capital improvement needs based on service levels, regulatory requirements, asset condition, and available resources.
  • Providing prompt, practical, and professional responses and resolution to resident concerns and inquiries.
  • Serving as a key participant in the negotiation, implementation and oversight of matters related to the City's AFSCME collective bargaining unit.
  • Developing, reviewing, and implementing departmental policies, practices, standard operating procedures, service standards, and safety protocols. Providing capital improvements planning and recommending options for public works projects and capital improvement programs.
  • Overseeing public works capital projects from planning and design through procurement, construction, inspection, closeout, and warranty.
  • Taking an active role in the hiring, training, supervision, succession planning, and ongoing evaluation of key departmental staff.
  • Ensuring the proper execution, administration, and inspection of agreements, contracts, permits, and work performed by City contractors, consultants, developers, and vendors.
  • Conducting and/or coordinating engineering studies and technical reviews in response to requests from the City Manager, City Council, residents, or operational needs.
  • Ensuring that the City's water and wastewater operations are conducted in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local regulatory requirements and permit conditions.
  • Coordinating Public Works emergency response and recovery activities during snow events, severe storms, flooding, debris events, utility failures, infrastructure failures, and other emergencies.
  • Representing the City in meetings with residents, civic associations, contractors, developers, utilities, professional organizations, and county, state, regional, and federal agencies.
  • Promoting a culture of safety, accountability, ethical public service, employee development, continuous improvement, and responsiveness to the Bowie community.

THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
With a $26 million operating budget, eight divisions, and 112 staff members, the Public Works Department provides resident services including: street maintenance; water and wastewater treatment; maintenance of the City's water and sewer distribution system; stormwater management; refuse and recycling collection; fleet maintenance and capital improvement projects, consisting of improvements to facilities including buildings and parks.
THE CITY
The City of Bowie is a vibrant forward-thinking community of approximately 58,000 residents, known for its strong neighborhoods, high quality of life, and engaged civic culture. The City's proximity to Washington, DC, commitment to quality neighborhoods, and focus on safety, and economic stability have helped position Bowie as the largest, and one of the wealthiest municipalities in Prince George's County.
The City staff consists of over four hundred hardworking employees in a variety of skilled, non-skilled, administrative, public safety, and professional disciplines. The City boasts a pleasant working environment and a strong, goal-oriented culture. This culture is reflected in the City's consistently high employee retention rate, and record of success in achieving organizational objectives. Joining the City of Bowie means becoming part of a dynamic, motivated, and aligned team.
SALARY and BENEFITS:
The City offers a competitive salary range of $160,000-$200,000 depending on qualifications, and a robust menu of employee benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life, and long-term care insurance, a 401(k) with employer match, and a 457 savings plan. To optimize employee work/life balance, many positions include telework and flexible scheduling options.
HOW TO APPLY
Please visit the city's website at: www.cityofbowie.org
and click on the employment link. All applicants must submit a completed City of Bowie employment application in order to be considered for this opportunity.
Application deadline: Open until filled
A proud Equal Opportunity Employer, the City of Bowie is committed to providing a fair and inclusive work environment where all employees are valued and respected. This commitment is a vital part of the City's organizational culture and values.

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