Director of Public Works, Grade 15

The City of Glenarden is seeking a customer-focused, collaborative leader who can take the Public Works Department to the next level in employee and community engagement and find a healthy balance between a strong operational focus and a long-term strategic approach to the City’s assets.

Under the direction of the City Manager, the Director of Public Works serves as the chief administrator and technical lead of the Public Works Department. This position oversees all municipal public works operations including road and drainage system maintenance, facilities management, fleet and grounds maintenance, and capital projects. The Director is responsible for strategic planning, staff supervision, project execution, RPF/bid processes, and department budgeting. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong leadership, operational expertise, and a commitment to excellence in public service.  The Deputy of Public Works position works at the pleasure of the City Manager.

PRIMARY FUNCTIONS:

• Direct all Public Works operations: streets, sidewalks, parks, buildings, and fleet maintenance.
• Establish and implement departmental policies, procedures, and operational strategies.
• Monitor service levels and make recommendations for improvement.
• Hire, train, supervise, and evaluate departmental staff, including contractors and temporary workers.
• Promote a collaborative and productive work environment through coaching and performance management.
• Prepares RFP and bid documents as needed for vehicles, equipment and third-party contracts and projects.
• Oversee and supervise the development of project plans; review and approve specifications, plans and estimates.
• Develop and manage the department’s annual budget.
• Approve expenditures, oversee fund allocations, and provide financial reporting.
• Identify resource needs and make budgetary recommendations.
• Act as liaison to elected officials, city departments, residents, and external agencies.
• Represent the department at City Council meetings and community events.
• Address public concerns and communicate department initiatives effectively.
• Evaluate departmental procedures and integrate industry best practices.
• Stay current on trends and technologies to improve operational efficiency.
• Attends Council meetings and other City events.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in public administration, Business Administration, Public Works Management, or a closely related field preferred.
• More than five years of increasingly professional level work with related public works systems, operations, and equipment.
• At least three years in a supervisory capacity is required.
• Extensive experience in municipal public works operations at the county or city level is preferred.
• Experience with project management, RFP/bid processes, contract negotiations and budgeting.
• Knowledge of public works operations, infrastructure systems, and construction.
• Knowledge of relevant software, including budgeting tools and project management software.
• Familiarity with contract and vendor management.
• Skilled in using project management and budgeting software.
• Ability to plan, organize, and direct complex operations.
• Ability to supervise the preparation and maintenance of records.
• Ability to prepare comprehensive technical reports.
• Ability to research, analyze, and evaluate new service delivery methods, procedures, and techniques.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work including City and other government officials, residents, community groups and the general public.
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Proficient in budget development and fiscal oversight.
• Ability to interact effectively and respectfully with diverse, cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups.

Any equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered. EACH APPLICANT MUST INCLUDE INFORMATION THAT CLEARLY DEMONSTRATES THE ABOVE QUALIFICATIONS FOR THIS POSITION.

This is an essential, full-time, salaried, permanent position.  Days and hours of operations are Monday through Friday, various shifts starting between 7:00 am and 8:30 am.  The candidate will be subject to respond during emergencies; will be required to work occasional evening, weekends, or holidays during special events and attend City Council work sessions and regular meetings. If selected, the candidate must have a valid and current Driver’s License, must possess a driving record which provides responsible and lawful driving habits, must be able to successfully pass a fingerprint screening, background investigation, and a drug/alcohol screening. Please submit your resume to Karen Shoultz at [email protected].  The position will remain open until filled. Eligible candidates will be referred periodically for consideration throughout the open period.

The City of Glenarden is an equal-opportunity employer committed to fostering and inclusive and professional work environment.  Quality candidates are encouraged to apply.