Operations Supervisor - Public Works, Public Works​/Utilities​/Maintenance Division

What are we looking for?

We are looking for outstanding individuals to join our team and contribute to excellence in Howard County operations.

• We are committed to workplace excellence in every area of County government.
• We have a highly talented, diverse, and inclusive workplace. Your input will be heard and encouraged.
• We offer competitive compensation and great benefits including medical, retirement, and wellness programs.
• As a member of the Howard County Government team, you’ll help drive our culture and directly impact what makes us an amazing place to work.

This is a front‑line field supervisory position directing the activities of the Water and Sewer Construction/Maintenance crew. Activities include layout and scheduling of water/sewer repairs and house connection installations, leak detection, customer inquiry and complaint resolution.

$3203 - $35.02

$66,629 - $72,842

* This is the anticipated starting salary range for this position. Please note that the final salary will be determined by the Office of Human Resources, commensurate with experience and aligned to ensure internal equity with similarly situated roles.*

Performs supervisory and advanced level operations service work under general supervision from an administrative or technical superior. Work includes directing the activities of one or more crews of laboring and/or motor equipment operation and repair personnel; driving and operating heavy motor, construction, and complex mechanical equipment; may direct and participate in the day‑to‑day operations of a large size site or sites.

* This is a Classified position, meaning that it is a part of the Howard County Classified Service upon completion of a probationary period of at least six (6) months.*

* This position has been designated as “essential personnel,” meaning an employee is expected to report for regular work shift during inclement weather, emergency situations, County holidays and on an on‑call basis.*

* Please note that this position falls within a collective bargaining unit and is represented by AFSCME Local 3085, Local 3888, or Local 1810.*

• Directs crews in performing water/sewer line maintenance activities.
• Directs crews on tasks such as excavation, inspection and grouting, road surfacing, laying pipe, tree trimming and removal and a variety of other operations.
• Directs the activities of the repaving subcontractors for all public roadways after water/sewer repair/installation.
• Trains subordinate crew members in equipment operations, trades practices, and care and use of tools and materials.
• Assists in interviewing personnel and recommends hiring.
• Performs on‑call duties for after‑hours emergency response on a rotational basis.

• Schedules installation of all water and sewer connections installed by the Bureau of Utilities.
• Performs layout work, coordinates with builders and plumbers.
• Performs leak detection for water distribution system, including mains and house services.
• Conducts investigations into customer inquiries and complaints.
• Operates heavy equipment such as hydraulic excavator, forklifts, compressors, trenchers.
• Performs skilled construction and maintenance work as needed by unit to which assigned.
• Reads blueprints and contract maps, lines and grades when needed to accomplish portions of a construction or maintenance project.

• Observes instruments while vehicle is in operation and performs routine corrective action.
• Inspects vehicles for safety and maintenance issues.
• Operates County vehicles in connection with maintenance duties or for regular duties.

• Completes job sheets and time sheets.
• Enters data into computer database.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.
• This position is considered emergency essential, and, as such, the incumbent may be required to report for regular work shift during inclement weather, or when an emergency situation requires it.

Directly supervises a number of employees. Carries…