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Public Works Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Beaufort

Public Works Director

Beaufort, SC

$104K - $131K/yr

The Public Works Director oversees and manages the Public Works Department, including streets, , stormwater, sanitation, public grounds, parks, traffic signs & signals, facility maintenance, fleet ...

City of Beaufort, SC

Public Works Director

Beaufort, SC · On-site

$104K - $131K/yr

Leadership & Management : * Lead, direct, and supervise the Public Works Department, including staff in operations, maintenance, engineering, and planning. Determines work procedures, work schedules ...

Morrow County

Public Works Director

Lexington, OR

The Public Works Director is responsible for managing tasks related to planning, organizing, directing, and coordinating the construction and maintenance of County roads, bridges, culverts, storm ...

City of Hopewell

Public Works Director

Hopewell, VA

$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 ...

City of Hopewell, VA

Public Works Director

Hopewell, VA · On-site

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 ...

Halff

Director - Public Works

Houston, TX

Manage project administration and supervision * Work in a collaborative team environment with multiple offices and various disciplines Director of Public Works Requirements : * Bachelor's Degree or ...

City of Dickinson

PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR

Dickinson, ND

$118K - $131K/yr

Direct a diverse management team while fostering accountability, collaboration, safety, and ... Extensive experience managing complex public works operations. Strong organizational, budgeting ...

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Public Works Manager information

See salary details

$36K

$86.6K

$142.5K

How much do public works manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for public works manager in the United States is $86,568.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,500.00 and $106,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Public Works Manager, and why are they important?

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 Public Works Managers?

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.
More about Public Works Manager jobs
What cities are hiring for Public Works Manager jobs? Cities with the most Public Works Manager job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Public Works jobs? The most popular types of Public Works jobs are:
What states have the most Public Works Manager jobs? States with the most job openings for Public Works Manager jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Public Works Manager jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Public Works Manager jobs are:
Public Works Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Works Manager job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,568 per year, or $41.6 per hour.
Public Works Inspector

Public Works Inspector

Resource Management Solutions

Manhattan Beach, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

A Southern California-based construction management & engineering firm has an immediate need for experienced public works construction inspectors with storm drain inspection experience supporting projects across Los Angeles County.

Under general supervision of the City Engineer, performs construction inspection duties and quality assurance on public works and development projects related to general improvements to concrete, water mains, and general underground utilities. Ensure compliance with City standards, codes, designs, and specifications.


Responsibilities:

Supervises and manages public works construction projects. This entails assuring the contractor’s work conforms to the project specifications and is accomplished by inspecting the contractor’s work on a daily basis; by keeping a daily record of instructions and directions given to the contractor regarding plan and specification interpretation and any required change orders; coordinating with an independent testing lab any materials testing required by project specifications; by verifying quantities for payment on contractor’s monthly pay request; by coordinating construction activities with residents, utility companies and other agencies; by providing for public safety during the project.

  • Assigns, monitors, and coordinates fieldwork.
  • Inspects and performs oversight on other agencies, utility companies, and contractors working within City boundaries and City right-of-way to ensure public safety and ensure the protection of City facilities; reviews and approves traffic control plans and coordinates road closures if required
  • Reviews and issues excavation permits and inspects all road cuts for other agencies and contractors working within City boundaries (whether for water, gas, sewer, telephone, etc.)
  • Inspects and performs oversight on the installation of water lines, sewer and storm drains.
  • Conducts construction site inspections for compliance with site SWPPP and City Storm Water Management Ordinance.
  • Answers technical questions and provides information to public and other agencies.
  • Responds to and resolves public inquiries and complaints related to public works construction projects and development.
  • Attends and participates in preconstruction meetings with department staff, engineers, contractors, developers, and other organizations.
  • Coordinates and conducts progress meetings with contractors, City departments, and other agencies.
  • Assists engineering staff with surveying, drafting, specifications, and bidding documents; reviews plans prior to final department approval.
  • Assists engineering staff with infrastructure inventories and maintenance of records.
  • Perform construction inspection, oversight, and enforcement of contract/permit documents for construction of various road, bridge, aviation, sewer, water, utility service, traffic signal, and flood control projects being constructed by contractors under a contract or a permit issued by the Department.
  • Prepare and process change orders, daily logs, and working day statements; collect work records; maintain accurate records of work done for payment purposes; conduct employee interviews; prepare as-built plans and perform other associated contract administration tasks.
  • Reject work that does not meet permit requirements and issue notices to correct deficiencies.

  • Graduation from high school and four (4) years of experience in public works construction or any equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Considerable knowledge of public works construction management, concrete and steel water tank inspection, methods and materials; knowledge of contract administration and pay estimates.
  • Ability to read and interpret plans and specifications; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, contractors, other departments and the public; ability to follow written and oral instructions; ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.