Public Works Director
City of Perry, GA
The City is seeking a Public Works Director to join a strong, collaborative team dedicated to serving the community. This is a great opportunity to lead essential infrastructure and municipal operations while working with a supportive organization and committed staff. If you’re looking for a rewarding role with a great City and team, I encourage you to learn more and apply or share with someone who may be a great fit.
Job Summary
Department head position that oversees the day-to-day operations of the Public Works Department and utility provision. Ensures effective, cost-effective, and efficient service delivery provision for all divisions: landscaping, solid waste, building maintenance, facility custodial, utilities, fleet maintenance, facility rentals, and public infrastructure (streets and stormwater). This position supervises staff, manages budgets, and coordinates projects in compliance with city, state, and federal regulations. The Director oversees departmental finances, budgeting, personnel, equipment, facilities, and strategic planning. As an integral part of the City of Perry team, the Director works throughout the organization with elected officials, other City departments, and externally with community partners and vendors to ensure superior service delivery and customer service.
Essential Tasks. Other duties may be required and assigned.
• Oversee and monitor all divisional operations within the Public Works Department to ensure efficiency, continued improvements, and compliance with State, Federal, and City standards and procedures.
• Plan, coordinate, and supervise daily public works operations and staff progress in accordance with established evaluation procedures, ensure adherence to City safety policies, and promote positive workplace environments.
• Prepare, administer and monitor the Public Works Department budget and expenditures; review and advise divisional managers and supervisors throughout the budget process to ensure alignment of current priorities and long-term strategic needs.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards, regulations, and environmental requirements. The Public Works facility operates under an Industrial Stormwater permit with EPD and compliance for regulatory requirements is integral.
• Oversee contractors, vendors, and capital improvement projects including scheduling, performance, and contract compliance.
• Respond to emergencies, citizen concerns, and service requests in a timely and effective manner.
• Represent the Public Works Department at City meetings, community partner meetings, and City Council meetings; serve as a primary point of contact for City Council, the Mayor, and the public by providing data, reports, analysis, and recommendations as needed.
• Coordinate with other City departments to provide staff, equipment, and operational support for special events, special projects, emergency response, and severe weather operations.
• Integrate long-range goals and strategic planning into daily decision-making, budget development, standard operating procedures, employee training and development, fleet operations and maintenance, and technology utilization; ensure managers, supervisors, and staff plan proactively for future growth and departmental needs.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required
• Demonstrated thorough knowledge of Public Works operations, infrastructure systems, and maintenance practices, including streets and sidewalks, stormwater structures, solid waste, landscaping, vehicle maintenance, and building/facility operations.
• Strong commitment to customer service excellence, with the ability to professionally manage difficult situations and respond effectively to citizen concerns.
• Knowledge of applicable laws, regulations and safety standards.
• Proven leadership skills with experience in supervision and employee development.
• Working knowledge of governmental budgeting, financial operations and project management principles.
• Ability to communicate effectively with staff, elected officials, and the public.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to analyze issues, prioritize work, and make sound decisions.
• Knowledge of applicable safety regulations and guidelines.
Reports to:
Mayor and Council. Daily Operations reports to the City Manager.
Position oversees and manages all divisions within the Public Works Department, including Landscape, Solid Waste, Stormwater, Streets and Infrastructure, Building Maintenance, Custodial Services and Vehicle Maintenance. The Director also provides oversight of the city’s utility operations contractor, ESG/ Inframark.
Physical Demands and Work Environment
This position requires the ability to sit, stand, walk, and move about work sites for extended periods. Duties may involve occasional lifting, carrying, or moving of materials and equipment weighing up to approximately 25 pounds. The employee may be required to climb ladders, navigate uneven terrain, and work in or around construction and maintenance areas.
The work environment includes both office and field settings. Fieldwork may expose the employee to outdoor weather conditions, noise, dust, traffic, heavy equipment, and other typical public works hazards. The employee may be required to respond to emergencies or after-hours situations, including nights, weekends, and inclement weather. Appropriate safety equipment and protocols are required when working in the field.
Minimum Qualifications
• Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, public administration, construction management, or a related field (or equivalent combination of education and experience)
• Valid Georgia driver's license. CDL or ability to obtain a CDL preferred.
• Five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in public works or municipal operations
• Proven track record of supervisory experience, including leadership, staff oversight and professional development.
• Ability to communicate effectively and professionally, both verbal and written.
• Preferred: Public Works Leadership Fellow (PWLF), APWA or Certified Public Works Professional, Management (CPWP-M) – APWA.
Application must be completed in full to be considered.
This position requires pre-employment, post-accident, and random drug screening.
THE CITY OF PERRY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER AND A CERTIFIED DRUG FREE WORKPLACE