Operations Supervisor - Public Works, Highways​/Road Maintenance Division

Howard County Government Job Opportunity

Howard County Government is a leader in innovation, sustainability, and consistently ranked as one of the best places to live and work in the country. In 2025, Howard County Government received a record-breaking 83 Achievement Awards from the National Association of Counties (NACo) – the highest number of annual NACo awards achieved in the history of the State of Maryland, and the highest number of awards out of any county in the State of Maryland which received a collective 136 awards.

NACo is the leading organization representing county-level government operations. These awards recognize innovative and transformative programs that provide new services for county residents, improve existing programs, upgrade working conditions, and enhance citizen participation and public policy making.

We are looking for outstanding individuals to join our team and contribute to excellence in Howard County operations. What you'll like most about working at Howard County Government:

• We are committed to workplace excellence in every area of County government.
• We have a highly talented, diverse, and inclusive workplace. Your input will not only be heard, but it will be 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 be helping drive our culture and directly impact what makes us an amazing place to work.

This is a highly skilled technical, front line supervisor position. Directs crews daily in performing complex maintenance projects and operates complex construction equipment while undertaking task.

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 of 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*

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

Crew Leadership & Oversight:

• Directs crews in performing complex maintenance activities on transportation facilities.
• Directs assigned crew on tasks such as excavation, inspection and grouting, road surfacing, pipe installation, tree trimming and removal, and other related operations.
• Demonstrates proper methods and techniques for construction, maintenance, laboring, and equipment operation tasks.
• Trains crew members in equipment operation, trades practices, and proper care and use of tools and materials.
• Assists in interviewing personnel and recommends hiring.

Skilled Construction & Maintenance Work:

• Performs skilled construction and maintenance tasks required by the assigned unit.
• Reads blueprints, contract maps, lines, and grades to complete portions of construction or maintenance projects.
• Performs work assigned through work orders and completes required job sheets and time sheets.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Equipment Operation:

• Operates hydraulic excavators to dig ditches and install drainage pipe.
• Drives tractor trailers to haul equipment to job sites.
• Operates forklifts to load and unload heavy materials; manually loads/unloads additional materials as needed.
• Operates compressors, trenchers, tamping machines, and other related equipment required for assigned work.

Vehicle & Equipment Inspection and Maintenance:

• Observes instruments while equipment is in operation and takes routine corrective action when malfunctions are noted.
• Inspects vehicles for loose parts, damaged or worn tires or tracks, proper tire pressure, and other safety-related conditions.
• Performs routine and preventive maintenance as established by the unit.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

Directly supervises 12 employees in…