Asst. Public Works Director

About the Role

The Public Works Department within the County is responsible for maintaining roads and bridges and complying with statutory requirements for County road superintendents. Services include overseeing the design and reconstruction of existing roads and bridges; performing maintenance projects such as pothole repairs, chip seals, striping, signage, safety modifications, and drainage and storm water improvements. During winter, the department performs snow removal, de-icing, and sanding.

Responsibilities

• Plan and coordinate the construction and maintenance of county roads, bridges, and property, as well as the maintenance and repair of county vehicles and heavy equipment to ensure safe, lawful, and policy-compliant service delivery within available resources.
• Develop and implement long- and short-range goals, objectives, policies, and procedures for road maintenance and repair operations consistent with County Commissioners' policies and federal/state regulations.
• Manage and oversee department personnel, including budgeting, hiring, performance management, training, disciplinary actions, and termination, ensuring compliance with employment laws.
• Conduct inspections of county roads, bridges, grounds, shops, facilities, and equipment; direct emergency responses such as snow removal, water on roadways, and fallen trees; and investigate/resolve complaints or procedural issues.
• Resolve operational problems by developing and implementing new programs, methods, and procedures to improve department efficiency and quality of work, including recommending policy changes.
• Oversee construction operations and contract administration to ensure effective program delivery and proper utilization of county resources, including reviewing projects, planning operations, approving contracts, and monitoring road/bridge conditions.
• Ensure employees and contractors follow County requirements for road and bridge work.
• Coordinate Road and Bridge activities with other public works departments, County departments, and local agencies.
• Enforce safety and traffic control procedures to protect County employees and the public.
• Administer the department budget, monitor revenues/expenditures, prepare annual budget requests, and ensure efficient use of funds, personnel, materials, and equipment.
• Oversee the equipment program, including acquisition, deployment, maintenance, and repair of vehicles and equipment.
• Direct environmental, regulatory, and permitting activities to ensure compliance, including securing permits, monitoring special permits, and resolving compliance issues.
• Establish practices and procedures, monitor compliance, and resolve complex problems for subordinates.

Requirements

• Thorough knowledge of state and federal regulations, heavy equipment operation, county road conditions, construction and bridge maintenance, engineering/mechanical principles, management practices, budget/financial management, and personnel/policy management.
• Skills in a general office environment and technical proficiency with engineering-related software such as AutoCAD and ArcView; familiarity with GPS survey equipment preferred.
• Ability to communicate effectively verbally, electronically, and in writing; manage multiple tasks; work with contracts and agreements; adhere to safety procedures; comply with laws and policies; handle stress and emergencies; and interact tactfully with employees, officials, agencies, and the public.

Qualifications

Education and experience equivalent to a BS degree in engineering or land surveying, plus five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in engineering, management, construction, or related work. Professional licensing as a PE or LS is preferred but not required.