Assistant Director of Public Works

City of Copperas Cove•Copperas Cove, TX

About The Position

Under the general direction of the Director of Public Works, the Assistant Director of Public Works provides executive-level leadership and administration for assigned departments within the Public Works umbrella. Assignments may include wastewater treatment, sewer collection, water distribution, streets and drainage, fleet services, solid waste, and utility administration, and may change according to organizational needs. The position organizes and coordinates assigned departments’ business and technical functions, makes daily decisions to support continuous public service, and provides complex staff assistance to the Director of Public Works. The role oversees departmental operations, personnel, budgets, planning, capital improvement projects, contracts, infrastructure studies, development reviews, and regulatory compliance. It advises City leadership, elected officials, boards, other departments, outside agencies, and the public on Public Works matters. The position also supports emergency planning, employee development, customer service, and the effective, sustainable delivery of municipal services. Regular and timely attendance and working scheduled hours are essential functions. Extended hours and emergency response may be required when needed.

Requirements

Seven years of responsible administrative or management experience related to Public Works operations and planning, with at least four years of supervisory experience in an operational department under the Public Works umbrella; or an equivalent combination of education and experience demonstrating ability to perform the duties.
Knowledge of engineering principles, practices, and methods applicable to a municipal setting.
Knowledge of public works administration, applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations, and effective administration and supervision.
Knowledge of budget development, implementation, and administration, and of report and record maintenance.
Knowledge of public works principles and practices related to diversified development activities and of research methods and sources of municipal and governmental data.
Strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to explain concepts and assign tasks clearly.
Public speaking and presentation skills for audiences including City employees, elected officials, and the public.
Ability to manage multiple tasks and set priorities.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with City personnel, subordinate staff, outside organizations, and agencies.
Ability to plan, assign, supervise, and review the work of a large staff and provide direction on difficult procedural and administrative issues.
Ability to develop and implement departmental policies and procedures and coordinate design and construction inspection of complex public works projects.
Ability to work extended hours and respond to emergencies if needed.
Ability to meet the physical demands described, including occasionally lifting or moving up to 75 pounds.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in civil engineering, public administration, operations management, planning, construction management, or a related field (preferred but not required).

Responsibilities

Lead, plan, organize, coordinate, and direct operations in assigned Public Works departments to provide efficient and effective services.
Assign work and projects; monitor workflows; review work methods and procedures; and recommend or implement improvements.
Assist the Director of Public Works with department administration, capital improvement project management, regulatory compliance, program development, and other priorities.
Prepare and update capital improvement, capital outlay, personnel improvement, and other master plans; provide professional and technical advice to City officials, boards, departments, and the public.
Develop, implement, and administer departmental objectives, policies, processes, capital projects, master plans, and business plans; identify resource needs and recommend improvements.
Manage and participate in technical studies, reports, and analyses concerning infrastructure maintenance, repair, and expansion.
Develop, administer, and oversee assigned departments’ operating and capital budgets; prepare annual estimates and needs descriptions; and control expenditures.
Coordinate department work and develop policies, procedures, and long-range plans.
Lead Public Works development reviews with relevant City departments and agencies; review engineered construction documents and ensure development applications conform to City requirements and master plans.
Ensure compliance with federal and state public works laws and regulations and oversee required reporting to regulatory agencies.
Manage assigned elements of the City’s MS4 permit and stormwater management plan, including annual reporting.
Develop and coordinate emergency response plans, procedures, processes, and training with City departments and external agencies.
Develop partnerships and explore contractual opportunities with outside entities to improve City operations.
Maintain professional stakeholder relations; respond to and resolve complex public inquiries and complaints; represent the City to the public, media, professional organizations, and outside groups.
Direct employee relations, staffing, training, coaching, mentoring, performance correction, and discipline; develop supervisory capacity and maintain a functional, safe, and productive workforce.
Develop, coordinate, and review standard operating procedures for Public Works operations, project management, construction and plat reviews, and property acquisition.
Promote economical use of labor, materials, supplies, personnel, and equipment; schedule work and review it in progress and upon completion.
Enforce City and safety policies and take responsibility for personal safety and compliance.
Report on Public Works matters to City Council and the City Manager in the Director’s absence or at the Director’s direction; meet with stakeholders and participate in public education programs.
Oversee proper use, operation, maintenance, repair, and adjustment of equipment and facilities; provide expertise related to operational licensure.
Negotiate and administer Public Works and Planning and Development contracts; oversee projects from scope and budgeting through design, bidding, construction, commissioning, and acceptance.
Direct and evaluate superintendents and supervisors responsible for planning, design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure and facilities.
Assist with drafting or revising ordinances, presentations, reports, plans, and policies; draft City Council agendas and approve agenda items prepared by Public Works staff.
Coordinate the Capital Improvement Program and recommend project priorities; prepare and present technical studies and reports, including master plans and regulatory ordinances.
Attend meetings of the Planning and Zoning Commission, Zoning Board of Adjustment, and City Council when assigned.
Analyze information and adapt policies, procedures, or methodologies as facts or interpretations change; read technical literature, speak to groups, and prepare manuals and complex reports.
Maintain professional and operational expertise and licensure through training, and provide ongoing relevant training for subordinates.
Perform other duties as assigned or determined by the Director of Public Works; maintain regular and timely attendance and work scheduled hours.