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Public Works Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Halff Associates

Director - Public Works

Houston, TX · On-site

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 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 Jonestown

PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR

Leander, TX · On-site

$84K - $90K/yr

Assistant Public Works Director, Public Works and Parks Department staff ... EXAMPLES OF WORK Essential Duties* · Manages special projects. Responsible for planning; both ...

New

CPS HR Consulting

Public Works Director

Terrell, TX · On-site

Public Works Director The City of Terrell is seeking a Public Works Director. The City is seeking a ... management skills. Terrell is specifically seeking someone with strong field and utilities ...

City of Umatilla (OR)

Public Works Director

Umatilla, OR · On-site

$115K - $141K/yr

Manages assigned operations to achieve goals within budgeted funds and available personnel; plans ... Works with the public and establishes new boards or committees in order to find solutions to issues ...

City of Paramount, CA

Public Works Director

Paramount, CA · On-site

$170K - $206K/yr

The Public Works Department also manages three divisions under the Water Enterprise fund, which includes Water Production, Water Distribution, and Water Customer Service. CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS:

City of Umatilla, OR

Public Works Director

Umatilla, OR · On-site

$115K - $141K/yr

Public Works Opening Date: 05/22/2026 Closing Date: 6/25/2026 11:59 PM Pacific FLSA: Exempt ... Manages assigned operations to achieve goals within budgeted funds and available personnel; plans ...

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$36K

$86.6K

$142.5K

How much do public works manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 5, 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.
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:
Who are the top companies hiring for Public Works Manager jobs? The top employers for Public Works Manager 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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,568 per year, or $41.6 per hour.
Director - Public Works

Director - Public Works

Halff Associates

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Director of Public Works - Houston, TX
Halff is seeking a highly skilled Director of Public Works to join our Public Works team in Houston, TX. The ideal candidate will have at least 12 years of experience in public works/roadway design and knowledge of Public Works projects in the Houston area. This position will entail the design and management of civil engineering projects and related pursuits. This position offers an excellent career development opportunity for someone looking to grow with Halff, with potential for not only business and personal growth, but ownership in the firm.
Director of Public Works Responsibilities:
  • Business development activities including client relationship building
  • Develop project scopes, professional services fee development, and staff projections
  • Produce winning project proposals as lead professional/project manager
  • Support leaders of multiple teams producing public works projects
  • Train and mentor staff
  • 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 Master's Degree in Civil Engineering or ABET accredited equivalent Engineering degree
  • Professional Engineer (P.E.) License in Texas or transferrable within 2 months
  • At least 12 years of experience in public works/roadway design preferred
  • AutoCAD Civil 3D experience
  • Strong technical writing and communication skills
  • Strong ability to train and mentor staff
  • Must be proficient in project management, administration, and supervision
  • Ability to work in a team environment with multiple offices and various disciplines
  • Positive attitude, self-directed

Company Overview:
Halff is a mid-sized, employee-owned, diverse and multi-disciplined professional services firm designed, engineered, planned, constructed - and purposed - for people. Since 1950, we've been creating smart solutions that improve lives and communities by turning ideas into reality. Halff was founded on a core tenet: Focus on people, treat them well, and success will follow. It's no wonder, then, that our employees and the culture they create result in our firm consistently being named a Top Workplace in America.
Our industry-leading professionals collaborate to meet tough challenges in creative ways. Our services include: Construction Services, Energy, Environmental, Geographic Information Systems, Intelligent Transportation Systems, Land and Site Development, Planning and Landscape Architecture, MEP Engineering, Public Works, Right of Way, Structural Engineering, Subsurface Utility Engineering/Utility Coordination, Surveying, Transportation, Water Resources and Water/Wastewater.
Halff has offices in the following locations:
Arkansas: Bentonville, Fort Smith, Little Rock and North Little Rock
Florida: Chipley, Crestview, Jacksonville, Orlando, Panama City Beach, Tallahassee, Tampa, Tavares and Temple Terrace and Windermere
Louisiana: Baton Rouge and Shreveport
Oklahoma: Norman and Oklahoma City
Texas: Austin, Brownsville, Conroe, Corpus Christi, Flower Mound, Fort Worth, Frisco, Houston, Lubbock, McAllen, Midland, Richardson, San Antonio and Tyler
We offer excellent benefits including medical, dental, prescription, life insurance, long-term and short-term disability insurance, paid time off and holiday pay, Traditional and Roth 401(k) plans, Employee Stock Ownership Plan, Health Savings Account, 529 College Savings Plan, Flexible Spending, an Employee Assistance Plan and more.
Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected status.
Halff is a drug-free workplace. This offer of employment is contingent upon the receipt of a clear drug screen and background check prior to your first day of employment. This position may be subject to random drug testing pursuant to federal regulations.
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