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Public Works Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ferndale, City of (WA)

Public Works Laborer

Ferndale, WA · On-site

$5.1K - $6.1K/mo

Description The Public Works Laborer is an entry level position which performs a variety of manual labor in the construction, maintenance, and service work of all public works facilities, including ...

Local Agency Engineering Associates

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Public Works Inspector

Placentia, CA · On-site

Public Works Inspector will work on Public Works Construction projects including concrete curbs, gutters, curb ramps, sidewalks, storm drains, RCP, water & sewer main replacements, water/sewer ...

City of Ferndale, WA

Public Works Laborer

WA · On-site

$5.1K - $6.1K/mo

Public Works Opening Date: 07/29/2026 Closing Date: 8/21/2026 11:59 PM Pacific Description The Public Works Laborer is an entry level position which performs a variety of manual labor in the ...

Local Agency Engineering Associates

Be Seen First

Public Works Inspector

Placentia, CA · On-site

Public Works Inspector will work on Public Works Construction projects including concrete curbs, gutters, curb ramps, sidewalks, storm drains, RCP, water & sewer main replacements, water/sewer ...

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 short term and long term. ...

City of Umatilla, OR

Public Works Director

Umatilla, OR · On-site

$115K - $141K/yr

Public Works Opening Date: 05/22/2026 Closing Date: 8/9/2026 11:59 PM Pacific FLSA: Exempt Bargaining Unit: N/A General Purpose The City of Umatilla is currently recruiting for it's next Public Works ...

City of Placentia

Public Works Inspector

Placentia, CA · On-site

$68K - $84K/yr

Our Public Works Department seeks a dedicated, hardworking individual to join our Inspection Division as a Public Works Inspector. DON'T WAIT. APPLY TODAY. Under the direction of the Deputy Director ...

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 ...

4Leaf, Inc

Public Works Inspector

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$75 - $85/hr

Requirements Minimum Qualifications * 5 years of experience as a Public Works Inspector. * Knowledge of Caltrans' Local Assistance Procedures Manual (LAPM) and prior experience with state-and ...

4LEAF, Inc

Public Works Inspector

Pleasanton, CA

$75 - $85/hr

Requirements Minimum Qualifications * 5 years of experience as a Public Works Inspector. * Knowledge of Caltrans' Local Assistance Procedures Manual (LAPM) and prior experience with state-and ...

4LEAF, Inc

Public Works Inspector

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$75 - $85/hr

Minimum Qualifications * 5 years of experience as a Public Works Inspector. * Knowledge of Caltrans' Local Assistance Procedures Manual (LAPM) and prior experience with state-and federally-funded ...

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How much do public works jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for public works in the United States is $24.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

More about Public Works jobs
What cities are hiring for Public Works jobs? Cities with the most Public Works job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Public Works jobs? The most popular types of Public Works jobs are:
What states have the most Public Works jobs? States with the most job openings for Public Works jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Public Works jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Public Works jobs are:
Public Works jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Works 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 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,420 per year, or $24.2 per hour.

Public Works Laborer

Ferndale, City of (WA)

Ferndale, WA • On-site

$5.1K - $6.1K/mo

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Description The Public Works Laborer is an entry level position which performs a variety of manual labor in the construction, maintenance, and service work of all public works facilities, including water, sewer, streets and maintenance. Operates hand and power tools and some motorized equipment. Usually works as part of an assigned crew assisting Utility Workers but may carry out individual or specialized assignment.

Examples of Duties Shovels, rakes, picks, cleans, hammers, sands, and other such manual labor. Assists Utility Workers in: cuts, fits, lays, connects, installs, repairs various sizes of water or sewer lines, installs valves, tees, crosses, reducers, sleeves, etc. per instructions.

Uses hand tools and operates drills, jackhammer, sewer rodding machines, mowers, weed eaters, torches, pavement grinder, etc. Reads meters, turns on or shuts off water services to customers per work orders according to established procedures. Works with traffic control devices including barricades, flags, signs, buttons and performs other safety related duties.

Works with asphalt, crack sealing, concrete, gravel, tree removal, building constructions and all areas of public works. Logs information, completes work orders and paperwork as necessary Typical Qualifications One year of building, craft, trade, or other public works related construction and equipment operator experience with good team work and communications skills. Expected to have a working knowledge of machinery operation, concrete work, asphalt placement and patching, and water and sewer pipeline systems and building maintenance.

Completion of high school (diploma or G.E.D.), or its equivalent. Supplemental Information Work is performed indoors and outdoors during all weather conditions during daylight hours and at night, in emergencies. The work is in a high risk environment which requires special safety precautions including: possible contact with human waste and blood borne pathogens, and prolonged physical efforts in confined spaces

Emergency service call-out may involve floods, snow removal, or emergency repairs to streets, parks, water and sewer system, and other locations in all weather conditions with proximity to traffic, heavy operating equipment and other hazards. Valid Washington Driver's License and a safe driving record. Physical ability to perform essential functions of the job.

Also must pass job related physical capacities evaluation at time of hire.

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