Director of Public Works
Town of Groton, CT
The Director of Public Works is responsible for the overall management of the Public Works Department. Specific responsibilities include long-range planning, transparent and effective communication with public, budget administration, project management, personnel/labor relations, environmental permitting and emergency management as it pertains to public works and construction management. The position reports to the Town Manager and will regularly present to elected officials. The position leads a large team, including an Assistant Director who handles the day to day operations of the water pollution facility and stormwater. The position necessitates a blend of management, financial and technical skills needed to oversee the department's functions including sewer collection system, waste water treatment facility, waste management, highway operations, municipal engineering, fleet management and equipment maintenance, facility management, maintenance and repair, and storm water management. The incumbent must be creative, able to motivate staff, and must project a positive public image.
This position requires thorough knowledge of the current principles and practices of public works management. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships and project a positive public image. Working knowledge of civil engineering principles and practices focusing on their application to the Town's public works functions.
Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written. Ability to read, analyze and interpret business and professional trade journals and information, financial reports, and legal documents. Skill in sensitively and effectively responding to inquiries and complaints from customers/community, regulatory agencies and the business community. Ability to effectively prepare and present information to management, stakeholders, and elected officials. Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts and draw valid conclusions. Able to appropriately deal with a variety of abstract and concrete variables.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS: The skills and knowledge required would generally be acquired with a Bachelor's Degree in Public Works Management, Civil Engineering, or a related field. A Master's Degree is preferred. At least ten (10) years of experience in a public works organization with at least five (5) years in increasingly responsible managerial positions. Responsibility for the oversight of an engineering function is helpful. A combination of education and experience which demonstrates the ability to meet the requirements of this position may be considered.
Criminal background, drug testing, and driving record checks required prior to employment.
REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS/LICENSES: Must possess and maintain a Valid Motor Vehicle Operator’s License.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: Licensure as a CT Professional Engineer, preferred.
The total rewards package for this position includes the following:
- Health and Dental Insurance
- Employer HSA contribution
- Traditional Pension, or 457 Defined Contribution, Retirement Plan
- Optional Deferred Compensation plans (Roth IRA or 457(b))
- Employer sponsored life insurance
- Periodic remote work opportunity
- Employee Assistance Program
- Dependent Care FSA
- Wellness activities and resources
- Generous accrued leave time (Vacation and Sick)
- 13 Paid Holidays
- Professional Development Opportunities and Tuition reimbursement
- The Town is an eligible Public Service Loan Forgiveness employer