Public Works Superintendent

Berkshirejobs; Williamstown (MA); On-site; USD 95,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

The Town of Williamstown is seeking a Superintendent of Public Works to lead the DPW in planning, directing, and supervising a wide range of infrastructure and maintenance programs. The role oversees the Highway, Cemetery, Parks, Transfer Station, and Facilities divisions and coordinates with other town departments and state agencies.

Qualifications include a Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or related field and at least five years of progressively responsible public works experience; a

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, public administration, engineering, or related field.
• Five years minimum progressively responsible experience in public works operations/management.
• Equivalents may be considered.

Responsibilities

• Plan, direct, and budget the Public Works Department activities.
• Supervise DPW staff and other departments during snow emergencies.
• Oversee storm drainage, road construction, and capital expenditure programs.
• Prepare bid specifications and maintain departmental records.
• Ensure safety regulations are followed and public relations are maintained.

Skills

Public works knowledge

Budgeting

Public relations

Verbal and written communication

Leadership

Education

Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or related field

Tools

Computer skills

Job description

The Town of Williamstown is committed to improving diversity, equity, and inclusion.

General Job Definition

Professional, supervisory, administrative, and operational work in planning, directing, and assisting the operations of the Department of Public Works (DPW). The salary range for this position is $95,000 to $105,000. The Town offers a competitive benefits package and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Job Environment

Work is performed under typical office conditions; other work may be performed out in the field, including within the different DPW facilities. Daily contact with the general public, town departments, local boards, and commissions, county organizations, state, and federal agencies, attorneys, consultants, engineers, and architects. Errors in administrative decisions could result in lower service standards, substandard construction, inadequate maintenance, and potential risk to town finances and public safety. Frequent travel to other communities and occasional travel to other regions of the state for trainings, conferences, and seminars. Has access to all departmental confidential information, including personnel records, contract negotiations, and bid proposals.

Supervision and Guidance

Under the policy direction of the Director of Public Works, performs highly responsible duties requiring the exercise of considerable independent judgment in planning and inspecting the construction of public works projects and in determining the scope and scheduling of maintenance projects. Plans, directs, and budgets the activities of the Public Works Department. Responsible for all phases of design and construction of infrastructure projects for the Town.

The Superintendent of Public Works will supervise all positions in the Department of Public Works and employees from other departments during snow emergencies.

Essential Functions

• Under the supervision of the Director of Public Works, manages the Highway, Cemetery, Parks, Transfer Station, and Facilities Departments.
• Assist in engineering, design, and construction projects for the department: provide input to all other Town departments as required about such projects.
• Coordinates and directs the planning and operation of storm drainage systems, road construction and improvements, and various special projects of a public works nature. Directs the maintenance and repair of bridges, culverts, highway guard fences, and other departmental structures and appurtenances.
• Oversees division budgets and short- and long-range capital expenditures programs, and supervises payroll and accounts payable.
• Supervises employees and utilization of equipment; evaluates different methods of performing work; assists in preparing bid specifications for construction projects and equipment.
• Responsible for the upkeep and general maintenance of all Department equipment and vehicles.
• Directs the maintenance and preparation of reports from departmental administrative and fiscal records, including accounts, cost systems, personnel records, payrolls, inventory, maintenance records, and permits.
• Confers frequently with division heads, other department heads, municipal officials, state government officials, professional and technical consultants, business representatives, and the general public on matters of departmental concern.
• Approves all street opening permits with street restoration requirements to private contractors and utility companies.
• Maintain current knowledge of all safety regulations and ensure employees are trained in said safety regulations and safety compliance is monitored
• Responsible for the Town's snow and ice program for streets, sidewalks, and parking lots.
• Attend to after-hours department emergencies.
• Performs related work as required.

Works collaboratively with neighboring communities, county organizations, and agencies whenever possible. Maintains a strong working relationship with all other Town Department Heads and staff through collaboration, communication, and flexibility concerning departmental responsibilities. Performs all other duties as required by the Town Manager.

Physical Requirements

Moderate physical effort is required to perform supervisory duties in driving, standing, and walking, sometimes in rough terrain under varied weather conditions, and entering trenches and detention basins. At times, it will require bending, stooping, and lifting. May occasionally assist in lifting heavy objects. Will be regularly exposed to active construction sites and work sites, as well as potentially dangerous conditions during weather events.

Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience

Bachelor’s Degree in civil engineering, public administration, engineering, or a related field; five years minimum progressively responsible experience in public works operations and management, engineering, construction, facility management, or a related field; an equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

Knowledge, Ability, and Skill

Thorough knowledge of the materials, methods, and techniques relative to public works issues. Ability to plan, assign, and supervise the work of groups of employees engaged in a variety of public works construction and maintenance operations. Ability to maintain good public relations. Knowledge of public works financing and administration. Understanding of the confidentiality requirements of personnel records and bid specifications. Good verbal and written communication skills. Ability to prepare and administer budgets. Ability to operate a computer, telephone, and standard office equipment.

Confidentiality

Must have a high regard, commitment, and understanding of confidentiality and how it applies to the position.

Special Requirements

Must possess a Class B Commercial Driver’s License, Class A preferred.

Must possess a Massachusetts 2A Hoisting License.

Must possess a valid Massachusetts State Driver’s License.