Description

CITY OF LOWELL

JOB DESCRIPTION

DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS

SUMMARY

Plans, organize and directs the operations of the Department of Public Works which

includes streets & sidewalks; storm sewers; water treatment and distribution; wastewater

treatment and collection; parks & public spaces; cemetery operations; and facilities, fleet

and equipment management.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Works is performed under the direction of the City Manager.  

SUPERVISION EXERCISED

Supervision is exercised over supervisors and staff assigned to the Department of Works. 

RESPONSIBILITIES AND ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND FUNCTIONS

1.      Plans, organizes and directs all aspects of departmental operations ensuring safety, quality and efficiency.  Develops, recommends and implements departmental policies and procedures, internal controls, and departmental goals and objectives in accordance with departmental needs, legal requirements and the city’s overall strategic plan.

2.      Plans, organizes and directs all on-going and special projects assigned to the department.

3.      Prepares preliminary budget and capital improvement programs based on past programs and expectations of future needs.  Administers and monitors final approved budget ensuring effective and efficient use of budgeted funds, personnel, materials, facilities and time.  Reports unexpected needs or discrepancies in a timely manner.

4.      Approves purchases and prepares departmental financial information as required.

5.      Researches grant opportunities, prepare and submit applications and administer grant funds awarded for departmental projects and/or purchases.

6.      Recruits and hires departmental employees.  Supervises personnel, evaluates performance, and oversees training and professional development.  Takes disciplinary, or corrective action when needed.

7.      Selects and procures equipment and materials as needed in accordance with capital improvement plans and approved budgets.

8.      Coordinates departmental activities with other city staff; contractors; vendors; utility companies; federal, state and local agencies; community organizations and other appropriate individuals or organizations.

9.      Represents the department by acting as spokesperson.  Establishes and maintains effective relationships with citizens, community groups, employees, vendors and other interests.

10.  Coordinates the development of specifications, bid documents, contracts and related information and documents.

11.  Reviews and advises on permits and development plans for work in city rights-of-way and other public spaces.

12.  Prepares and maintains appropriate records and reports as required.

13.  Demonstrates continuous effort to improve operations, streamline work process and work cooperatively and jointly to provide quality customer service.

14.  Keeps abreast of developments and current issues in the public works field through continued education and professional development.

15.  Knowledgeable of laws, policies, rules and contracts relating to the department.

16.  May perform duties of other departmental personnel as workloads, temporary absences, or emergencies dictate.

17.  Oversight of maintenance of city owned facilities and assets.

18.  Performs other duties as assigned.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS, QUALIFICATIONS AND 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES FOR EMPLOYEMENT

All of the following functions, qualifications, knowledge skills and duties are essential.  An employee in this class, upon appointment, should have the equivalent of the following:

        Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Business Management, Engineering, or a related field; five years of high level professional experience in public works, utilities, engineering; or any combination of experience, education, or training that demonstrates the applicant has the leadership competencies as described in the job description.

        Considerable knowledge of the principles, standards and techniques related to municipal public works to assure professionally sound cost-effective departmental operations.

        Knowledge of State and Federal agency regulations, city codes and ordinances relating to city operations to administer department activities within budget constraints.

        Knowledge of the methods, materials and equipment used in various operations of the department.

        Knowledge of oversight in facility maintenance.

        Skill in planning, budgeting and designing control systems.

        Skill in planning, organizing and directing others in a large-scale enterprise.

        Skill in interpreting blueprints and specifications.

        Skill in the operation of assigned vehicles/mechanical equipment/power tools.  

        Ability to communicate verbally and in writing.

        Ability to work effectively with public, contractors and fellow employees.

        Ability to see, hear and speak effectively without limitation.

        Ability to write comprehensive reports. 

        Must possess good vision and physical mobility to perform on-site physical inspections to perform related duties.

        A valid Michigan Driver’s License (CDL and air-brake endorsement is desired).

Requirements

Desired Qualifications: Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Business Management, Engineering, or a related field; five years of high-level professional experience in public works, utilities, engineering; or any combination of experience, education, or training that demonstrates the applicant has the leadership competencies as described in the job description; valid Michigan Driver’s License. 

Successful candidates must also demonstrate strong supervision, communication, interpersonal, mathematical and technology skills.