Public Works Director 7130001

Job Description

Job Description

Position Overview

The Town of Spring Lake is seeking a qualified professional to serve as its  Director of Public Works . This leadership position is responsible for overseeing the Town's public works and utility operations while ensuring the safe, efficient, and reliable delivery of essential services to the community.

All applicants who meet the minimum qualifications are encouraged to apply.

Provides leadership, direction, and supervision to employees assigned to the Fleet Maintenance, Public Buildings, Streets, Sanitation, Water Operations, Wastewater Treatment Plant, and Stormwater Divisions.

• Plan, organize, and direct departmental operations, establishing short- and long-term goals, priorities, and operational improvements.

• Coordinate activities with other Town departments to promote efficient and effective service delivery.

• Advise the Town Manager and Board of Commissioners on public works projects, policies, infrastructure needs, and departmental priorities.

• Develop, implement, and maintain departmental policies, procedures, and programs.

• Direct emergency response activities and coordinate with outside agencies, including FEMA, as necessary.

• Manage personnel functions, including recruitment, hiring, training, performance evaluations, disciplinary actions, and employee retention.

• Ensure compliance with applicable safety regulations and oversee departmental safety programs and training.

• Manage contracted services and coordinate projects with engineers, contractors, and other service providers.

• Conduct field inspections to monitor project progress, workmanship, regulatory compliance, and quality standards.

• Prepare and administer departmental operating budgets, capital improvement plans, and grant-funded projects.

• Address citizen concerns, service requests, and inquiries regarding public works and utility operations.

• Represent the department at Board meetings, public hearings, and other community engagements.

• Prepare and present departmental reports, recommendations, and other required documentation.

• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in civil, electrical, environmental, or construction engineering, or a related field; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Considerable experience in public works or utility operations, including significant supervisory or managerial experience.

Licenses and Certifications

Ability to obtain applicable North Carolina licenses and certifications within designated timeframes, including:

• Grade B Water Distribution Operator Certification (Grade A preferred).

• Backflow/Cross-Connection Control Certification.

• Land Application Certification.

• Grade 4 Water Pollution Control System Operator License – Collection System (preferred).

• Grade 4 Water Pollution Control System Operator License – Wastewater Treatment (preferred).

• Stormwater BMP Plan Reviewer and Inspection Certifications within two years.

• Herbicide/Pesticide Application License within two years.

• Valid North Carolina Driver's License required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Thorough knowledge of public works operations, water and wastewater utility systems, infrastructure maintenance, OSHA regulations, and applicable governmental requirements.

• Demonstrated ability to lead personnel, manage departmental resources, and oversee multiple operational divisions.

• Strong organizational, problem-solving, communication, and decision-making skills.

• Ability to develop budgets, establish priorities, and maintain effective working relationships with employees, elected officials, contractors, and the public.

• Work is performed in both office and field environments.

• Requires occasional light physical activity, including walking, standing, reaching, and lifting up to 20 pounds.

• May involve exposure to varying weather conditions, high-traffic areas, confined spaces, and elevated work locations.

The Town of Spring Lake offers a rewarding opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the community while advancing your professional career.

We take a  total compensation approach , recognizing that employment benefits extend beyond salary to include:

• Competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package.

• Stable, full-time employment with long-term career opportunities.

• A supportive and collaborative work environment.

• Opportunities for professional development and leadership growth.

• The satisfaction of providing essential services that directly benefit the community.

Compensation Information

The minimum advertised salary represents the starting point of the established pay range. Individual starting salary offers are determined based on the candidate's qualifications, relevant experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities.