Public Works Operations Supervisor

The Borough of Somerville in Somerset County is a growing, successful municipality, with an award-winning downtown. We are seeking an experienced DPW Operations Supervisor, who reports to the Director and possesses, or has the ability to attain, a CPWM to oversee an extremely busy department of 10 to 14 full-time regular personnel and total department budget of over $3 million.

Requirements: Experience in managing maintenance of parks, playgrounds, trees, roadway improvements, solid waste contract, among other duties. Strong experience in managing public works personnel, understanding of the local public contract law. Familiarity working with a unionized workforce. The position requires an individual who possesses outstanding and strong customer service skills, detail oriented and ability to simultaneously handle multiple operations.

Salary: $75,000 to $95,000

How to apply

Please send resume and cover letter to Kevin Sluka, Borough Administrator at KSluka.

Title: Operations Supervisor
Department: Public Works
Union: OPEIU

Job Specification last updated January 21, 2026

This position performs work under general supervision of the Public Works Director.

Responsible for supervision of DPW staff and day-to-day operations. Coordinates the overall operations, including management of work crews, equipment, facilities and infrastructure.

Oversee crews and ensures efficient deployment of resources and safety compliance.

Working conditions are mainly outdoor work in which the employee may be exposed to hot, humid, cold and wet weather conditions.

• Ability to read, write, understand and communicate in English sufficiently to perform the duties of the position
• Valid New Jersey driver’s license;
  Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Class B preferred
• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Engineering, Construction Management, or related field preferred
• Seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in public works, construction, or municipal public works operations, including at least three (3) years in a supervisory capacity, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Thorough knowledge of road construction, maintenance practices, and municipal infrastructure systems, snow operations, safety protocols
• Strong leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to read and interpret specifications, contracts, and technical documents
• Proficiency with computers including Microsoft Office, email, and maintenance management software

Note:

The examples of work for this title are for illustrative purposes only.

A particular position using this title may not perform all the duties listed in this specification.

Conversely, all duties performed on the job may not be listed.

Supervision and Personnel Management

• Supervise and evaluate forepersons, crew leaders, and operational staff across multiple divisions
• Assign work priorities and allocate personnel and equipment resources
• Review and approve work schedules, timesheets, and leave requests
• Conduct performance evaluations and provide coaching and discipline as needed
• Participate in hiring, training, and development of department personnel
• Ensure compliance with collective bargaining agreements and personnel policies

Operations Coordination

• Plan, schedule, and coordinate daily operations across all Public Works
• Develop and implement standard operating procedures and workflow systems
• Monitor project progress and ensure timely completion of work orders
• Coordinate activities with other municipal departments and outside agencies
• Oversee contractor operations including mowing, snow removal, and construction projects
• Ensure quality control and compliance with applicable codes and standards

Infrastructure and Asset Management

• Oversee maintenance and repair of roads, drainage systems, buildings, and facilities
• Conduct inspections and assess infrastructure conditions
• Develop maintenance schedules and preventive maintenance programs
• Recommend capital improvements and equipment replacements
• Maintain inventory of materials, supplies, and equipment
• Ensure proper storage and security of municipal assets

Safety and Compliance

• Im…