Director of Public Works

The salary range for this position is between $95,000 - $105,000 per annum on a 37.5 hour work week, depending on E/E. This position is an exempt managerial position and is not eligible for overtime. Extended hours beyond 37.5 hours a week can be expected due emergencies, meetings or other unplanned events.

The salary range for this position is between $95,000 - $105,000 per annum on a 37.5 hour work week, depending on E/E. This position is an exempt managerial position and is not eligible for overtime. Extended hours beyond 37.5 hours a week can be expected due emergencies, meetings or other unplanned events.

The Town of Westerly is accepting applications for the position of Director of Public Works. This position is responsible for responsible for leading, planning, directing and managing the activities of the Public Works Department. The Public Works Department encompasses three main divisions including Engineering, Utilities, and Public Works Operations, and several subdivisions including Sewer, Water, Highways, Transfer Station, and Buildings and Grounds.

The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Business or Public Administration or closely related field. The candidate will also have five years of professional and increasingly responsible experience in the management and direction of various aspects of a municipal Public Works program, which must include a minimum of three years of supervisory level experience is required.

Extensive experience in one of the following areas: building, roadway and public properties maintenance and water distribution and waste water collection systems is required. Possession of a P.E. license is preferred.

Current hours are typically 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM; however, flexibility is expected for this position, as this position’s workload changes based on operational demand. Some of the responsibilities are as follows:

• Directs, manages, leads, coordinates and mentors departmental staff.
• Ensures compliance with all applicable federal, state and Town laws, ordinances and regulations.
• Serves as the principal advisor to the Town Manager, Town Council and other city officials regarding engineering and other public works activities and confers as appropriate regarding Public Works Department policies, programs and activities.
• Plans, organizes, and provides effective leadership in managing a broad scope of public works programs and operations for the Town.
• Directs all divisions of Public Works, identifying opportunities for efficiencies and increased collaboration with other Town Departments.
• Develops long-range strategic and master plans for department policies and programs, outlines program objectives, and works with appropriate staff on implementation of plans. Oversees the preparation and implementation of plans for Public Works’ municipal projects.
• Guides and directs a large staff of professional, technical, and administrative support personnel, including making selection and disciplinary decisions, completing performance evaluations, and ensuring staff have adequate training and professional development opportunities.
• Directs the preparation of and reviews plans and technical reports, budget estimates, accounting and financial reports, as well as other business and operational records, proposed ordinances, and regulations submitted by staff in regards to improved operating methods, and procedures for facilitating the department’s business.
• Collects and analyzes data on metrics within the department.
• Delivers presentations, prepares reports, and facilitates meetings and responds to difficult citizen inquiries and complaints.
• Oversees annual departmental budget development and compliance, including planning and administration, and actively participates in long-range budget analysis.
• Works on cross-departmental teams and committees to ensure effective operations of the Town.

The candidate offered the position will be required to successfully pass a background investigation. This position will be posted until filled.