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Public Works Project Manager Jobs in Portland, OR

Engineer I

Saint Helens, OR · On-site

$6.3K - $7.6K/mo

Responsibilities include reviewing private development plans for public improvements; assisting with project management, contract administration, and budget tracking for public works projects ...

Engineer I

Saint Helens, OR · On-site

$6.3K - $7.6K/mo

Responsibilities include reviewing private development plans for public improvements; assisting with project management, contract administration, and budget tracking for public works projects ...

Engineer I

Saint Helens, OR · On-site

$6.3K - $7.6K/mo

Responsibilities include reviewing private development plans for public improvements; assisting with project management, contract administration, and budget tracking for public works projects ...

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Public Works Project Manager information

See Portland, OR salary details

$47.2K

$102.4K

$163.8K

How much do public works project manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for public works project manager in Portland, OR is $102,402.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,500.00 and $119,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by public works project managers, and how can they be addressed?

Public Works Project Managers often encounter challenges such as coordinating multiple stakeholders, managing tight budgets, and adhering to strict regulatory requirements. Effective communication with government agencies, contractors, and the public is essential for keeping projects on track. Staying organized and proactively addressing issues, such as unforeseen site conditions or delays, can help minimize disruptions. Utilizing project management software and maintaining transparent documentation also play a key role in successfully navigating these challenges.

What does a public works project manager do?

A Public Works Project Manager oversees the planning, execution, and completion of public infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, water systems, and public buildings. They coordinate between government agencies, contractors, and the community to ensure projects are delivered on time and within budget. Their responsibilities include managing project teams, securing permits, monitoring progress, and addressing any issues that arise during construction. Public Works Project Managers play a vital role in maintaining and improving the quality of public infrastructure.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a public works project manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Public Works Project Manager, you need a strong background in civil engineering or construction management, often supported by a relevant degree and professional licensure such as a PE (Professional Engineer). Familiarity with project management software (like MS Project or Primavera), budgeting tools, and regulatory compliance systems is typically required. Leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for managing diverse teams and stakeholders. These competencies ensure that complex infrastructure projects are completed on time, within budget, and in accordance with safety and regulatory standards.
What are popular job titles related to Public Works Project Manager jobs in Portland, OR? For Public Works Project Manager jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Public Works Project Manager jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Public Works Project Manager jobs in Portland, OR are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Public Works Project Manager jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Public Works Project Manager job openings:

Capital Project Manager II/III - Public Works

Clark County

Vancouver, WA • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


Clark County (Nevada) rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

571st of 844 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Job Summary
Clark County Public Works is looking for an experienced civil engineering project manager to join its Project Management Section, one of a handful of groups comprising its Engineering and Construction Division. The nine-person section is a tight-knit project management team with access to the expertise and resources of the larger Clark County Public Works organization.
The team focuses on coordinating the development of plans, specifications, and estimates, as well as the acquisition of environmental permits or real property as necessary, for projects on the County's capital improvement programs and assisting during the construction phase. Project managers lead multi-disciplinary teams of design, traffic, and construction engineers, planners, surveyors, property acquisition experts, and environmental specialists in the delivery of civil engineering county infrastructure projects and assist the construction manager as necessary during the construction phase.
This position will be primarily focused on civil roadway and transportation project management, with opportunities in stormwater or parks infrastructure, or special projects as necessary. The position works collaboratively with sections throughout Public Works and other county departments, and it will also work closely with state and federal agencies, utility service providers, and businesses in coordinating project activities, along with working directly with the public and neighborhood associations.
This is a professional level project management position for the Department of Public Works. The team currently enjoys a hybrid work arrangement. The candidate selected MUST reside within WA or OR. Project Manager positions are represented by PROTEC17, Professional and Technical Employees.
This position may be filled as a Capital Project Manager II or III depending on qualifications, experience and certifications.
Qualifications
Education and Experience:
Filling the position as a Capital Project Manager III:
Bachelor's degree in project management, civil engineering or a related field; and five (5) years of responsible project management or closely related experience at the Capital Project Manager II level. Experience emphasizing construction based transportation projects is highly desirable: or Seven (7) years of responsible project management experience or closely related experience at the Capital Project Manager II level that demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and ability to perform the work described above.
AND
Certification as a Project Management Professional (PMP). Licensure as a Professional Engineer in Civil or Environmental Engineering will qualify for consideration, while candidates work toward and achieve PMP certification within two (2) years of receiving Capital Project Manager III classification.
Filling this position as a Capital Project Manager II:
• Bachelor's degree in project management, civil engineering or a related field; and two (2) years of responsible project management or closely related experience at the Capital Project Manager 1 level. Experience emphasizing construction based transportation projects is highly desirable.
- OR -
• Five (5) years of responsible project management experience or closely related experience at the Capital Project Manager 1 level that demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and ability to perform the work described above.
Knowledge of: Principles and practices of civil engineering and administration of public works projects; organizational and management practices as applied to the development of projects; recent developments, current literature, and sources of information regarding project management; project estimating; planning, scheduling, monitoring, and problem solving; application and interpretation of County regulatory codes, state regulatory and legislative requirements, court decisions and Attorney Generals opinions concerning the wide variety of engineering functions; departmental policies and procedures, work standards and codes applicable to the job.
Ability to: Coordinate professional and technical staff with a team emphasis; analyze problems with consideration of consequences of proposed actions; identify alternatives and recommend solutions; implement recommendations in support of goals; interpret and apply Federal, State, and local policies, procedures, laws, and regulation s; supervise the preparation and maintenance of project documents and reports; communicate effectively both orally and in writing; establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work including a variety of County and other government officials, community groups, and the general public.
SELECTION PROCESS
To upload a resume or other documents: Resumes and documents must be attached together in the 'Resume Upload' section of the application. Multiple files are allowed, but all applicant attachments must be uploaded simultaneously, as there is no way to edit or append uploaded materials after submitting the application.
Application Review (Pass/Fail) - An online application is required-attaching a resume does not substitute for a completed application, and incomplete applications will not pass the application review. Resume and Cover Letter are REQUIRED. Include as an attachment a cover letter (limited to two pages) stating why you are interested in this position and addressing your knowledge and abilities relating to the qualifications and attributes outlined in the job announcement. Candidates deemed most qualified will be invited to participate in the remainder of the selection process.
Practical Exam (Pass/Fail) - This recruitment may require a practical exam which will be job related and may include, but not be limited to, the qualifications outlined in the job announcement. Candidates deemed most qualified will be invited to participate in the remainder of the selection process.
Oral Interview - The interview will be job related and may include, but not be limited to, the qualifications outlined in the job announcement. Top candidate(s) will continue in the process.
Employment References will be conducted for the final candidates and may include verification of education.
It is the general policy of the County that new employees should be hired at the lower steps of the applicable range and advance through the range at the normal progression.
First review of candidates will be August 12th. This recruitment may close at any time on or after the first review date with no additional notice.
Examples of Duties
Duties may include but are not limited to the following:
Plans, oversees, and coordinates the activities and operations of assigned capital improvements projects. Ensures the timely, accurate, and cost effective completion of projects.
Coordinates teams of professional and technical projects staff at each project phase, with an emphasis on teamwork and collaborative problem resolution.
Ensures that all phases of projects proceed on schedule and that consultants, utilities and other organizations involved in projects, meet specifications. Reviews progress reports and authorizes payments.
Performs grants administration, project estimating, and budget preparation and management for assigned projects as applicable. Procures outside resources as needed and provides contract administration. Submits and ensures payment of invoices for materials, professional services and other related cost items.
Reviews design plans and specifications for conformance to job requirements. Prepares, develops and checks complex specialized contract provisions and design agreements. Conducts or attends pre-bid and pre-construction conferences detailing principle construction features and agreements.
Monitors project progress and conducts meetings to resolve problems and ensure timely completion. Participates in meetings and designs and implements agreements throughout the stages of the projects.
Utilizes computerized project management tracking systems and related programs in accomplishment of the work.
Prepares complex technical engineering and administrative reports and develops critical correspondence and comprehensive reports in support of engineering projects and decisions.
Coordinates with other sections and departments on issues related to capital projects, grant and contract administration, or related.
With input from the divisions of Transportation, Design and Maintenance, makes recommendations on scope of work changes necessary to complete assigned projects.
Assists in investigations and resolutions of claims and complaints from contractors or property owners. Maintains office records of design, construction and other engineering activities, as required by County, State, and Federal regulations.
Coordinates with the Survey Section Supervisor/County Surveyor to ensure accurate, complete and quality field survey data is collected and that information is acquired in a cost-effective, efficient manner. Assists in the preparation of complex property descriptions.
Develops and maintains effective relations with the public. Represents Public Works on various committees; at neighborhood organization and community meetings; public hearings; before governmental bodies and in legal processes.
Participates in the development, implementation and review of ongoing programs and existing methods - assessing job effectiveness and cost efficiencies.
Participates in the mentoring of other Project Managers.
Participates in the formulation and updating of goals and objectives consistent with the mission of the Department.
Salary Grade
Local 17 Engineers.12 - Local 17 Engineers.13
Salary Range
$42.78 - $62.80- per hour
Close Date
Open Until FilledRecruiter
Rori Jones
Email:
Rori.Jones@clark.wa.gov
Equal Opportunity Employer
Clark County is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing equal opportunity in employment, access, and delivery of all county services. Clark County's Equal Employment Opportunity Plan is available at http://www.clark.wa.gov/human-resources/documents.
Employee Benefits and additional compensation
Clark County provides regular full-time and part-time employees with a comprehensive benefits package which includes medical, vision and dental insurance, paid leave, flexible spending accounts, life insurance and long-term disability, retirement, and deferred compensation. Some types of employees in some positions and bargaining units might have different benefits and additional compensation. More specific benefit information for the different bargaining units can be found at https://clark.wa.gov/human-resources/employee-benefits. Also please refer to the specific bargaining unit contract for additional compensation at https://clark.wa.gov/human-resources/documents.
Retirement Information
All Clark County employees must participate in a WASHINGTON STATE RETIREMENT SYSTEM PLAN (PERS, PSERS or LEOFF).Employee contributions begin the first day of work. Current contribution rates vary by plan but could range from 5% to 15% of gross pay, depending on the plan choice.
For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site here: http://www.drs.wa.gov/
If you are in need of ADA/Section 504 assistance for accommodations, please contact Human Resources at (564) 397-2456; Relay (800) 833-6388.

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