Public Works Director & Operations Leader

Construction Association of Michigan; Northern (KY); Hybrid; USD 95,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

Construction Association of Michigan seeks a Public Works Director to plan, direct, and oversee the Village Department of Public Works. The role includes staffing, budgeting, policy development, and ensuring regulatory compliance, with on-call duties for emergencies.

The ideal candidate has a Bachelor's in a related field, 5+ years in public works operations, and 3+ years of supervisory experience. Milestones include CDL and Water License credentials; strong leadership and GIS proficiency are

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Public Works Administration, or closely related field.
• Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in public works operations.
• Minimum of three (3) years of supervisory or management experience directing personnel, budgets, projects, and daily operations.
• CDL Class B or higher with air brake and tanker endorsements, or ability to obtain within six months.
• S-3 Water System Operator License or higher, or ability to obtain.
• Working knowledge of municipal public works operations, asset management, and regulatory compliance.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and GIS; ability to use budgeting software and other departmental technologies.

Responsibilities

• Confer with Village Manager and staff regarding operations, priorities, and infrastructure needs.
• Plan, supervise, and evaluate the work of all DPW staff and oversee contractors and vendors.
• Administer collective bargaining contracts and participate in bargaining team duties.
• Develop, implement, and manage departmental work plans and staffing assignments.
• Direct operation and maintenance of streets, water distribution, and sewer systems; oversee water quality testing and GIS.
• Inspect work for quality, safety, and compliance with standards and project requirements.
• Conduct field inspections of projects and ensure timely regulatory filings and permits.
• Manage records, reports, contracts, and official documents in accordance with laws.
• Address citizen concerns, service requests, and complaints related to departmental operations.
• Develop and monitor operating and capital budgets; approve expenditures and review invoices.
• Participate in field operations and emergency response duties as needed.
• Develop and enforce departmental safety programs and train staff.
• Coordinate with other Village departments during operations and emergencies.
• Respond to emergencies outside normal hours and supervise departmental personnel during operations.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Village Manager.

Skills

Leadership

Budget management

Project management

Communication

Public works operations

Technology literacy

Education

Bachelor's degree in public administration / civil engineering / construction management

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

GIS

Work order systems

Asset management software

Job description

Construction Association of Michigan seeks a Public Works Director to plan, direct, and oversee the Village Department of Public Works. The role includes staffing, budgeting, policy development, and ensuring regulatory compliance, with on-call duties for emergencies.

The ideal candidate has a Bachelor's in a related field, 5+ years in public works operations, and 3+ years of supervisory experience. Milestones include CDL and Water License credentials; strong leadership and GIS proficiency are