1

Public Works Jobs in Woonsocket, RI (NOW HIRING)

Director of Public Works

Oxford, MA · On-site

$94K - $142K/yr

Director of Public Works Requisition Code: DIRPW Classification: Exempt - Salary Level/Pay Range: Level 21; $94,328 - $142,272 Reports to: Town Manager Date: July 14, 2026 Summary/Objective ...

Mechanic

Westwood, MA · On-site

$34.14 - $39.22/hr

MECHANIC Department of Public Works The Town of Westwood has an immediate opening for a Mechanic to join the Department of Public Works. The ideal candidate will be a team player who is skilled in ...

Mechanic

Westwood, MA

$34.14 - $39.22/hr

MECHANIC Department of Public Works The Town of Westwood has an immediate opening for a Mechanic to join the Department of Public Works. The ideal candidate will be a team player who is skilled in ...

DPW Sewer Technician

Hopkinton, MA · On-site

$29.25 - $29.69/hr

The Town of Hopkinton is seeking a Sewer Technician to join our Department of Public Works Water & Sewer team. This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys hands-on work, problem-solving ...

TEMPORARY LABORER

Worcester, MA · On-site

$17.50/hr

TEMPORARY LABORER DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS CITY OF WORCESTER The City of Worcester is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Temporary Laborer for the Street Operations Division within ...

DPW PROJECT DIRECTOR

Worcester, MA · On-site

$85K - $112K/yr

DPW PROJECT DIRECTOR DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS CITY OF WORCESTER The City of Worcester is seeking qualified applicants for the position of DPW Project Director for the Water Operations Division ...

Custodian

Sharon, MA · On-site

$55K - $57K/yr

The Town is seeking a dependable, community-minded individual to join our Public Works team as a full-time (40 hours/week) Custodian. In this role, you will be an essential part of maintaining safe ...

Custodian

Sharon, MA

$55K - $57K/yr

The Town is seeking a dependable, community-minded individual to join our Public Works team as a full-time (40 hours/week) Custodian. In this role, you will be an essential part of maintaining safe ...

STAFF ASSISTANT III

Worcester, MA · On-site

$32.03 - $39.04/hr

STAFF ASSISTANT III DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS CITY OF WORCESTER The City of Worcester is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Staff Assistant III for the Street Operations Division ...

Town Engineer

Oxford, MA · On-site

$96K - $124K/yr

Underthe general supervision of the Director of Public Works and throughconsiderable individual initiative, the Town Engineer supports Department policies,manages major infrastructure projects and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Public Works information

See Woonsocket, RI salary details

$12

$23

$42

How much do public works jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for public works in Woonsocket, RI is $23.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.50 and $26.73 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 Woonsocket, RI?

The most popular types of Public Works jobs in Woonsocket, RI are:

What cities near Woonsocket, RI are hiring for Public Works jobs?

Cities near Woonsocket, RI with the most Public Works job openings:

Infographic showing various Public Works job openings in Woonsocket, RI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,313 per year, or $23.2 per hour.

Director of Public Works

Oxford, MA • On-site

Town of Oxford
1 - 10 employees

$94K - $142K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Director of Public Works
Requisition Code: DIRPW
Classification: Exempt - Salary
Level/Pay Range: Level 21; $94,328 - $142,272
Reports to: Town Manager
Date: July 14, 2026
JOB DESCRIPTION
Summary/ObjectiveInaccordance with applicable general laws, by-laws, and all rules and regulationspromulgated there under, directs, plans, organizes, and controls all operationsof the DPW including the following divisions: Administration, Engineering,Highway, Parks & Cemetery, Forestry, Facilities, Fleet Maintenance, andSewer.
Essential FunctionsThis position is required to effectively develop and manage:
• DPW operating budget, DPW SewerEnterprise, DPW Water Enterprise, Municipal Fuel.
• Short term and long-term CapitalImprovement plans.
• Town's Roadway, Drainage and FacilitiesImprovement Programs.
• Town's compliance with the NPDESPhase II Storm water Program
• Snow and ice control programs.
• Town's solid waste programs.
• Departmental Safety program.
• Department's Table of Organizationand Equipment Inventory.
• Hiring process for new employees andmaking recommendations to Town Manager for new hires.
• Reviewing the performance of all Departmentalemployees and recommending personnel actions to the Town Manager.
• Performs other related duties as required and assigned.
Thisposition is required to:
• Direct,lead, motivate, schedule and assign work.
• Provideoverall supervision and training for DPW personnel in accordance with allapplicable laws and personnel practices and policies.
• EvaluatePublic Works needs to deliver cost-effective services.
• Implementthe goals and objectives as established by the Town Manager and recommendlong-term and short-term strategic plans to attain goals.
• Assess performanceof the Department and recommend changes in policies, procedures, methods andequipment to improve efficiency and service delivery.
• Prepareand manage bids, RFP's, RFQ's, and contracts for contracted work.
• Keepabreast of legislative, technical and professional developments in the fieldthrough continuing education, professional associations, publications,conferences and seminars, and peer group associations. Share relevant information with staff andTown officials.
• Provideplan review and inspection services for projects before the Planning Board andConservation Commission.
• Act as theliaison with and represent the DPW before state, federal and regional authorities.
• Ensurecompliance with local, state, and federal laws and regulations.
• Serve asthe DPW public information officer in responding to suggestions, complaints andcriticisms.
• Serve asthe key technical engineering resource of the Town of Oxford.
• Must beavailable for off-hour work including evening meetings and emergencies.
Competencies
• Candidate must possess a thoroughknowledge of personnel policies and procedures; creating and managing multiple budgetsfor a wide array of service lines; principles and practices of CivilEngineering; planning, bidding and constructing public works and facilitiesprojects; public building systems management; public procurement for services,supplies and construction.
• Excellent Time Management skillsrequired.
• Maintain frequent contact with Townand School officials, vendors, and the general public that requires excellentcustomer service skills. Contact may bemade in person, in writing, or by telephone.
Supervisory ResponsibilityWill supervise DPW employees through subordinate managers/supervisors.
Work Environment:
The workenvironment is typically performed under typical office conditions, usingoffice equipment, computers, fax machines and telephones. The work performed inthe field involves exposure to hazards associated with extreme weatherconditions, toxic or caustic chemicals. Candidate will work near movingmechanical machinery as well as construction sites and will be required to wearsafety equipment.
Physical DemandsLight to moderatephysical demands are required to perform inspections and respond to emergencies.Must be able to climb stairs and to transverse uneven terrain. Frequentmovement of equipment and vehicles may be required. Fine motor skills includemoving desk objects and using office equipment including telephones, personalcomputers, handheld technology. Visual skills require routinely readingdocuments for general understanding and analysis.
Position Type and Expected Hours of WorkThis is a full time exempt position. May require work inexcess of eight (8) hours per day.
TravelTravel is required to construction and inspection sites.
Required Education and Experience
• Seven toten (7-10) years of progressive experience in public works, municipalgovernment.
• Five (5)years of supervisory experience
• Registrationas a Professional Engineer in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Preferred
• Bachelor'sor Master's Degree in Civil Engineering Preferred
• MCPPOCertification Preferred
Work AuthorizationProvideappropriate documentation to verify your authorization to work in the UnitedStates.
AAP/EEO StatementThe Town is committed to providing equal employment opportunities. The Town will not discriminate againstemployees or applicants for employment on any legally-protected class status,including, but not limited to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation asdefined by law, national origin, member of uniformed military services,physical or mental disability, age as defined by law, or genetic information.
Other DutiesPlease note this job description is not designed to cover orcontain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities thatare required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities andactivities may change at any time with or without notice.