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Public Works Utilities Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Director of Public Works is a position which includes Streets, Parks & Cemeteries, Equipment Services, and Utilities that include both a water and wastewater treatment plant. This position ...

Public Works Director

Kilgore, TX · On-site

$114K - $159K/yr

The Director of Public Works is a position which includes Streets, Parks & Cemeteries, Equipment Services, and Utilities that include both a water and wastewater treatment plant. This position ...

Director of Public Works

Brawley, CA · On-site

$137K - $175K/yr

... utility operations. Provides executive leadership for the City's public infrastructure systems by directing the planning, development, operation, maintenance, rehabilitation, replacement, and ...

Financial Management Monitor utility financial performance and recommend rate adjustments as ... direct public works experience. Valid driver's license required. The City of Neenah is an Equal ...

$145K - $194K/yr

Under general administrative direction, to plan, direct, manage, and oversee the activities and operations of the Public Works Department; to coordinate assigned activities with other City ...

Public Works Director

Billings, MT · On-site

$145K - $194K/yr

Under general administrative direction, to plan, direct, manage, and oversee the activities and operations of the Public Works Department; to coordinate assigned activities with other City ...

Public Works Director

Newport, OR · On-site

$131K - $176K/yr

Public Works Division: ADMINISTRATION Opening Date: 06/22/2026 Position Summary PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR $133,694.00 - $179,674.00 Annually (DOQ) Plus Excellent Benefits APPLY BY: July 27, 2026 (open ...

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 ...

Public Works Director

Newport, OR · On-site

$131K - $176K/yr

Position Summary PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR $133,694.00 - $179,674.00 Annually (DOQ) Plus Excellent Benefits APPLY BY: July 27, 2026 (open until filled) BENEFITS INCLUDE: -11% County Contribution to ...

Public Works Director

Independence, CA · On-site

$166K - $215K/yr

DESCRIPTION The Director of Public Works is a key member of the County's executive leadership team and serves as the County Road Commissioner. This is an exceptional opportunity to lead a diverse ...

Public Works Director

CA · On-site

$166K - $215K/yr

Public Works Opening Date: 08/11/2026 Closing Date: Continuous DESCRIPTION The Director of Public Works is a key member of the County's executive leadership team and serves as the County Road ...

Showing results 41-60

Public Works Utilities Director information

See salary details

$48K

$135.1K

$204.5K

How much do public works utilities director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for public works utilities director in the United States is $135,107.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,500.00 and $162,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a public works utilities director?

Public Works Utilities Directors are senior officials responsible for overseeing the operations, maintenance, and strategic planning of public utility services, such as water, wastewater, stormwater, and sometimes electricity or gas, within a city or municipality. They manage budgets, staff, regulatory compliance, and infrastructure projects to ensure the reliable delivery of essential services to the public. These directors often collaborate with other government agencies, contractors, and the community to address utility-related issues and improve service efficiency. Their role is vital in maintaining public health, safety, and environmental standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a public works utilities director?

To thrive as a Public Works Utilities Director, you need a strong background in civil engineering, public administration, and utility operations, often supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree and relevant professional licenses. Familiarity with GIS mapping systems, asset management software, and regulatory compliance tools is typically required. Leadership, strategic planning, and effective communication are essential soft skills for managing teams and engaging with stakeholders. These competencies ensure efficient utility operations, regulatory compliance, and the delivery of reliable public services.

What are some common challenges faced by a public works utilities director in managing multiple utility systems?

Public Works Utilities Directors often oversee a variety of utility systems such as water, wastewater, and stormwater, each with its own regulatory requirements and operational complexities. Balancing budget constraints while ensuring infrastructure reliability and regulatory compliance can be challenging, especially during emergencies or periods of rapid community growth. Effective communication and coordination with other municipal departments, contractors, and the public are essential to address these challenges and maintain high service standards. Directors also need to stay current with evolving technologies and environmental regulations to ensure efficient and sustainable operations.

What is the difference between Public Works Utilities Director vs Water Plant Supervisor?

AspectPublic Works Utilities DirectorWater Plant Supervisor
CredentialsEngineering degree or related certification, state licensingWater treatment certification, relevant technical training
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple departments including water, sewer, and public worksManages daily operations of a water treatment plant
Employer & IndustryMunicipal government, public utilitiesPublic utility or municipal water department
Search & ComparisonOften compared for leadership roles in public utilitiesCompared for technical and operational roles in water treatment

The Public Works Utilities Director oversees multiple departments within public utilities, including water services, sewer, and infrastructure, requiring broader management skills and certifications. In contrast, the Water Plant Supervisor focuses specifically on the daily operations of a water treatment plant, emphasizing technical expertise. Both roles are essential in municipal water management but differ in scope and responsibilities.

More about Public Works Utilities Director jobs

What cities are hiring for Public Works Utilities Director jobs?

Cities with the most Public Works Utilities Director job openings:

What states have the most Public Works Utilities Director jobs?

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What job categories do people searching Public Works Utilities Director jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Public Works Utilities Director jobs are:

Infographic showing various Public Works Utilities Director job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $135,107 per year, or $65 per hour.

$114K - $159K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Position: Reports to: Public Works DirectorCity Manager FLSA Classification: Exempt Salary Grade/Level/Family/Range: $114,664 - $159,768 Annually Supervisory Duties: Personnel in Streets, Equipment Services, Parks & Cemeteries, Water & Wastewater Summary/Objective: The Director of Public Works is a position which includes Streets, Parks & Cemeteries, Equipment Services, and Utilities that include both a water and wastewater treatment plant. This position directs the department through effective planning, staff management, and resource allocation; and assures the effective completion of projects and compliance with state and Federal regulations, City policies, procedures and goals. A Professional Engineering license is preferred but not required.

Examples of Duties / Knowledge & Skills Primary Duties & Responsibilities: The following duties are not intended to serve as a comprehensive list of all activities, duties, or responsibilities required of employees in this classification, but rather provide a representative summary of the primary duties and responsibilities. Employees may not be required to perform all duties listed and may be required to perform additional or position-specific duties. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may be assigned or modified at any time, with or without notice.

Directs Public Works Department (PWD) staff and operations including engineering, streets, water & wastewater, solid waste, fleet, facilities, and drainage. Serves as the principal advisor to the City on Public Works programs and technical issues; provides leadership, direction, and guidance in operational strategies and priorities; coordinates PWD operations within the City, and assures program objectives and standards meet City goals. Evaluates City needs and Capital Improvement Program plans, and determines PWD operational plans, strategic plans, priorities, resource requirements, and goals.

Develops and directs strategies to meet City goals and objectives; interprets concerns, defines desired results, develops solutions, determines scope and priorities of programs and special projects; develops project budgets and manages expenditures. Assures effective communication of PWD issues; interprets and explains Federal and state rules and regulations; evaluates and analyzes policies and procedures, and recommends solutions; assures the Department's activities follow all laws, policies, and regulations. Directs the activities of the PWD management staff; plans, prioritizes, and assigns tasks and projects; instructs and trains staff, monitors work, develops staff skills, and evaluates performance; analyzes workload trends and implements staffing and assignment adjustments.

Meets regularly with staff to discuss and resolve workload and technical issues; monitors operations to identify and resolve problems. Directs contracted projects; assures project deliverables meet cost and quality requirements. Writes technical and analytical reports and makes technical estimates of a specialized nature in connection with PWD projects, contracts, and regulatory issues.

Analyzes Department financial and resource information; manages PWD operating budgets; calculates operating costs and develops solid waste, water, and sewer rate proposals for the City Council. Directs coordination with Federal, state, and regional organizations, and City departments; manages community relations and resolves complaints and community issues; prepares and presents reports for internal and external audiences. Prepares for and responds to various City emergency situations and serves in the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) in a variety of assignments; ensures appropriate staff is trained and respond in accordance with the City's Emergency Management Plan.

Performs other related duties as assigned or required. Minimum qualifications & Requirements Education & Experience: Bachelor's Degree in Engineering Seven years' work experience in engineering design, project management, and civil engineering, preferably in the public sector OR an equivalent combination of education and experience. Licenses/Certifications: Possess a valid Texas Driver's License Must complete required NIMS courses ICS 300 & ICS400 within one year of employment Registered as Professional Engineer by the Texas Board of Professional Engineers if applicable Required Knowledge Of: City organization, operations, policies, and procedures.

Fundamentals of civil engineering, mathematics, and physics. Principles of design, construction, and maintenance of public works projects. Methods, materials, and equipment used in public works construction, maintenance, and repair.

Principles and practices of government project management and methods of evaluating construction contract compliance. Federal and state codes and regulations governing public works infrastructure. Principles and practices of administrative management, including personnel rules, cost accounting, budgeting, procurement, contract management, and employee supervision.

Facility, vehicle, and equipment maintenance procedures and practices. Principles of Information Technology, including Geographic Information Systems. Required Skill In: Analyzing issues, evaluating alternatives, and making logical recommendations based on findings.

Using initiative and independent judgment within established procedural guidelines, while assuring compliance with PWD goals and objectives. Interpreting and applying engineering standards and procedures, Federal and state regulations, and City policies and procedures. Developing and implementing procedures for cost-effective management of allocated resources.

Analyzing and evaluating technical engineering data and construction documentation. Checking designs, details, estimates, plans, and specifications of engineering projects. Interpreting technical instructions and analyzing complex variables.

Reviewing and verifying mathematical calculations. Assessing and prioritizing multiple tasks, projects, and demands. Establishing and maintaining cooperative working relationships with City employees, officials, and representatives from other local, state, and Federal agencies.

Effectively supervising and leading staff, and delegating tasks and authority. Operating a computer utilizing a variety of business software. Communicating clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing.

Supplemental information Work Demands: While performing the duties of this position, the employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, sit, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, and crawl. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move items weighing up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required include close, distance, color, and peripheral vision, as well as the ability to adjust focus.

Regular attendance and occasional travel are required. Work is often performed in an office setting; however, outdoor work is required for the inspection of various land use developments, construction sites, and public works facilities. The employee may occasionally work near moving mechanical parts, at high or precarious locations, and in wet and/or humid conditions.

The position may also involve occasional exposure to fumes, toxic or caustic chemicals, and varying noise levels, which are generally moderate but may be loud when operating equipment. Other Requirements: Employment contingent upon passing physical examination, drug/alcohol screen, and background check.