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Public Works Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

ICMA

Public Works Superintendent

Milton Freewater, OR · On-site

$114.89 - $139.67/hr

The next Public Works Superintendent will have the opportunity to provide leadership, develop strategic vision for the Department, and to foster a collaborative, professional, and safe environment ...

Lincoln County, OR

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 ...

Lincoln County

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 ...

Lane County

Public Works Management Analyst

Eugene, OR · On-site

$33.89 - $44.13/hr

DESCRIPTION See What Lane County Public Works Employees Have to Say About Working Here. Are you a skilled and enthusiastic individual with a passion to serve. Do you apply a high level of ingenuity ...

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Public Works information

See Oregon salary details

$13

$25

$47

How much do public works jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for public works in Oregon is $25.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.33 and $29.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a public works job?

Public works jobs refer to positions involved in the planning, construction, maintenance, and management of public infrastructure and facilities, such as roads, bridges, water treatment plants, parks, and public buildings. Employees in public works may work for local, state, or federal government agencies, and their roles can include engineering, maintenance, project management, and administration. These jobs are essential for ensuring that communities have safe, reliable, and efficient public services and infrastructure.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in public works, and why are they important?

To excel in Public Works, you need a background in civil engineering, construction management, or a related field, often supported by relevant degrees or certifications. Familiarity with project management software, GIS systems, and regulatory compliance tools is typically required. Strong communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills help professionals effectively manage teams and coordinate with stakeholders. These capabilities are crucial for delivering safe, efficient, and sustainable public infrastructure projects that serve the community.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in public works, and how can applicants prepare for them?

Professionals in Public Works often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple departments, managing large-scale infrastructure projects, and responding to public concerns or emergencies. Applicants should be prepared for dynamic workdays that may involve both office-based planning and on-site inspections. Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills are essential, as is the ability to adapt quickly to changing priorities and regulations. Gaining familiarity with municipal processes and developing a collaborative mindset will help you succeed in this field.

What is the difference between Public Works vs Civil Engineer?

AspectPublic WorksCivil Engineer
CredentialsVaries; often includes civil engineering degrees, certifications like PEBachelor's degree in civil engineering, PE license often required
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, construction sites, urban planningDesign offices, construction sites, project management
Employer & IndustryMunicipal, state, federal government agenciesEngineering firms, construction companies, government agencies
Common Search/ComparisonPublic Works vs Civil Engineer

Public Works professionals focus on managing and maintaining infrastructure projects for government agencies, including roads, bridges, and public facilities. Civil Engineers design, plan, and oversee these projects, often working within the private sector or consulting firms. While both roles require civil engineering knowledge, Public Works roles emphasize project management and public sector operations, whereas Civil Engineers focus on technical design and engineering solutions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Public Works jobs in Oregon?

The most popular types of Public Works jobs in Oregon are:

What are popular job titles related to Public Works jobs in Oregon?

For Public Works jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Public Works jobs in Oregon look for?

The top searched job categories for Public Works jobs in Oregon are:

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Public Works jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Public Works job openings:

Public Works jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Works job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,308 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

Public Works Superintendent

Milton Freewater, OR • On-site

National Rural Water Association
Utilities • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about National Rural Water Associationexternal

$114.89 - $139.67/hr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

The City of Milton-Freewater is recruiting its next Public Works Superintendent!

The next Public Works Superintendent will have the opportunity to provide leadership, develop strategic vision for the Department, and to foster a collaborative, professional, and safe environment across experienced Public Works teams. In this role, the selected candidate can appreciate the unique opportunity to apply public works expertise across a compelling range of services, major projects, and City priorities. Don't miss this exciting opportunity to lead a dedicated team in a supportive and welcoming community.

The City of Milton-Freewater (population 7,321) is located near the Columbia River and Washington-Oregon border in Umatilla County. Known for its thriving artisan agricultural industry and offering unparalleled access to exceptional vineyards, the City is home to a close-knit and welcoming community. The City is a full-service municipal organization that operates under a Council-Manager form of government. The City is organized across eight departments made up of 58 City employees with 19 Public Works staff (including seasonal employees). Its 2026-2027 adopted budget was approximately $47.9 million.

The Public Works Superintendent reports to the City Manager and is responsible for leading and coordinating all aspects of the City's infrastructure and essential services. As a key contributor to the City's management team, the Public Works Superintendent should have strong leadership skills and a commitment to public service; a wide-ranging public works operations knowledge; demonstrated skills related to strategic and project planning; excellent staff management abilities; the skills to provide and support effective financial management; experience with procurement and contract management; a commitment to maintain and enhance effective working relationships with significant local and regional partners; clear, consistent, and respectful communication skills; and a willingness to be visible in the community and show appreciation of Milton-Freewater.

A bachelor's degree in civil engineering, public administration, or related field, and at least three (3) years of progressively responsible experience in public works operations, engineering, or municipal infrastructure management is required. A valid Oregon's Driver's License (or ability to obtain one) with a satisfactory driving record is required. Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.

Compensation is $114,888 - $139,668 (DOQ/DOE).

The City of Milton-Freewater is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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