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 administrative direction of the City Manager, the Director of Public Works serves as the primary administrator, technical leader, and supervisor of the Public Works Department for the City of Glenarden. Reporting directly to the City Manager, the Director oversees municipal public works services including grounds and fleet maintenance, public facilities, road maintenance, and drainage systems. This position also manages special capital improvement projects, oversees the RFP/bid and procurement processes, and directs departmental budget development and administration. 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:

Leadership and Administration

• Provide overall leadership, direction, and management of the Public Works Department.
• Develop and implement departmental policies, procedures, and operational strategies.
• Promote a collaborative, safe, and productive work environment through effective leadership, coaching, and performance management.
• Evaluate departmental operations and implement industry best practices to improve efficiency and service delivery.

Operations and Maintenance

• Direct and oversee all Public Works operations, including streets, sidewalks, parks, City buildings and facilities, drainage systems, and fleet maintenance.
• Monitor service levels and operational performance; recommend and implement improvements as needed.
• Ensure proper maintenance, repair, and replacement of City facilities, equipment, and infrastructure.
• Coordinate and manage Public Works–related emergency response operations, as necessary.

Personnel Management

• Recruit, hire, train, supervise, and evaluate departmental staff, contractors, and temporary employees.
• Develop work plans, assign tasks, and monitor productivity and performance.
• Ensure staff compliance with safety standards, City policies, and applicable federal, state, and local regulations.
• Promote staff development through training and professional growth opportunities.

 Capital Projects and Procurement

• Plan, coordinate, and oversee capital improvement projects from design through completion.
• Prepare and administer Requests for Proposals (RFPs), bid documents, and procurement materials for equipment, vehicles, and contracted services.
• Review and approve project plans, specifications, and contractor performance.
• Ensure projects are completed on time, within budget, and in compliance with City standards and regulations.

Budget and Financial Management

• Develop and administer the department’s annual operating and capital budgets.
• Approve expenditures, monitor fund allocations, and prepare financial and status reports.
• Identify resource needs and provide budgetary recommendations to the City Manager.
• Ensure responsible stewardship and accountability of City assets and resources.

Communication and Community Relations

• Serve as liaison to elected officials, City departments, residents, contractors, and external agencies.
• Represent the Public Works Department at City Council meetings, community meetings, and City events.
• Respond to public concerns and communicate departmental initiatives, projects, and service updates effectively.
• Attend Council meetings and other City-related functions as required.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in public administration, Business Administration, Public Works Management, or other related degree relevant to current position as well as a minimum of three (3) years of supervisory or management experience required.
• Extensive experience in municipal public works operations at the county or city level preferred.
• Demonstrated experience in project management, RFP/bid preparation, contract administration, and budget development.
• Demonstrated experience in budget preparation, fiscal oversight, and resource management.
• Experience with contract negotiation and vendor management.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to research, evaluate, and improve service delivery methods and operational procedures.
• Proficiency in project management, budgeting, and related software applications.
• Thorough knowledge of municipal public works operations, infrastructure systems, construction practices, and maintenance programs.
• Knowledge of procurement procedures, including RFP/bid development, evaluation, and contract negotiation.
• Knowledge of applicable software systems, including budgeting, asset management, and project management tools.
• Ability to oversee the preparation and maintenance of accurate departmental records and documentation.
• Ability to prepare clear, comprehensive, and technical reports.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with City officials, staff, contractors, external agencies, residents, and community organizations.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to interact effectively and respectfully with individuals from diverse cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
• Ability to plan, organize, and oversee comprehensive public works functions while effectively managing personnel and resources.
• Ability to develop, administer, and monitor complex operating and capital budgets.
• Ability to analyze operational issues and implement practical, effective solutions.
• Strong leadership, supervisory, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to motivate, develop, and manage staff effectively.
• 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 a full-time, exempt, essential position. The Director of Public Works must be available to respond to emergencies and may be required to work evenings, weekends, or holidays as necessary to support City operations and special events. The salary range for this position ($75,776 - $83,643) is commensurate with experience and qualifications. 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] by the closing date of March 25, 2026. 

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