Assistant Director of DPW

Position Description

Summary:

Under the general direction of the Director of Public Works, the Assistant Director of Public Works assists in the planning, organizing, directing, and administering the operations and programs of the Public Works Department. This position provides leadership and operational oversight of assigned divisions, infrastructure systems, and support functions, and serves as acting Director in the absence of the Director. The Assistant Director plays a key role in departmental administration, budgeting, capital planning, regulatory compliance, personnel management, and service delivery to residents.

The duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the level and/or class of this position.

• Assist the Director in the overall management and administration of the Public Works Department, including daily operations, long-range planning, and performance oversight.
• Oversees major construction and maintenance projects, including the preparation of specifications, bids, and requests for proposals.
• Assists in the preparation and implementation of the Township’s Capital Improvement Program (CIP).
• Provide management oversight of assigned public works functions, which include water distribution, sanitary sewer, stormwater, facilities, utilities billing support, or customer service operations.
• Supervise personnel, support staff development, and participate in hiring, performance reviews, and disciplinary processes.
• Coordinate with division supervisors to assess equipment, staffing, and operational needs; make recommendations for efficiency and service improvements.
• Prepare and review departmental reports and correspondence; assist with presentations to the Township Board and community groups.
• Participates in the development, administration, and monitoring of the departmental operating and capital budgets.
• Oversees contract administration for public works projects and services, including consult coordination, contractor oversight, and compliance monitoring.
• Respond to citizen inquiries, complaints, and service requests professionally and in a timely manner.
• Stay current on public works best practices, technologies, and regulatory changes through professional development.
• Comply with all written Township policies and procedures.
• Coordinate with regulatory agencies, county partners, and external stakeholders as required and assist in the preparation of regulatory reports, permits, and documentation.
• Assist with personnel administration, including hiring, training, performance management, discipline, and workforce development. Provide leadership, coaching, and professional development for supervisory and operational staff.
• Assist in managing emergency responses and maintaining up-to-date departmental procedures.

• Associate’s degree or higher in public administration, business administration, civil engineering or construction engineering. OR Five (5) years or more of progressively responsible experience in public works, utilities, infrastructure management, or municipal operations.
• Minimum Two (2) years management/administrative experience.
• An equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Ability to work as a team player.
• Must possess a valid Michigan’s Driver’s License at the time of employment.
• Ability to obtain and maintain required state and professional certifications/licenses as assigned within 4 years.

• Thorough knowledge of public works operations, municipal infrastructure, and service delivery models.
• Proficient in interpreting blueprints, technical drawings, and engineering specifications.
• Strong leadership, organizational, and problem‑solving skills; ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills, including presentation of technical information to non‑technical audiences.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and public sector software platforms such as SCADA and BS&A.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with elected officials, employees, contractors, and the public.