Assistant Director of Utilities & Public Works

The City of Newberry•Newberry, FL

23h

About The Position

The City of Newberry is excited to welcome applications for a leadership opportunity that truly makes a difference — Assistant Director of Utilities & Public Works. In this key role, you’ll help shape the future of our growing community by supporting and advancing essential services including water, wastewater, electric, streets and roads, cemetery operations, and utility administration. We’re seeking an approachable, innovative, and collaborative leader who brings technical expertise and a heart for public service. If you’re a hands-on, forward-thinking professional who enjoys solving problems, improving operations, and making a real impact in people’s everyday lives, this is your chance to shine. As part of our leadership team, you’ll partner with the Director of Utilities & Public Works to lead a talented team, maintain and enhance critical infrastructure, and ensure our community continues to thrive. This is more than just a job — it’s an opportunity to be part of something meaningful, to help build a stronger future for Newberry, and to work in a community that values connection, service, and innovation.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction, Project Management, or a closely related field - a comparable combination of education, training, and experience may be considered in leiu of degree.
Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible management experience in utility and/or public works administration at the municipal, county, or state level, including: Budgeting and procurement Labor/employment oversight Capital project delivery and public records management Operational oversight of electric distribution, water distribution, wastewater, stormwater, water treatment, public works, and capital project management
Ability to obtain FDOT and Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) certifications within two (2) years of employment.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with the public and internal teams.
Valid Florida driver’s license with a driving record acceptable under City policy and insurance requirements.

Responsibilities

Champion the City’s core values: Teamwork, Respect, Accountability, Innovation, Leadership, and Superior Service.
Provide oversight and strategic direction to division supervisors.
Assist with hiring, training, evaluating, and developing staff.
Plan and direct operational and administrative functions across multiple utility and public works divisions.
Evaluate short- and long-range community needs and help shape infrastructure investment strategies.
Prepare and manage budgets, financial strategies, and funding applications (e.g., grants, State Revolving Fund).
Oversee construction projects, ensuring adherence to schedule, budget, safety, and compliance standards.
Coordinate design reviews, technical evaluations, and permitting for capital projects.
Lead permitting efforts and serve as primary liaison with regulatory agencies.
Ensure all projects comply with federal, state, and local regulations.
Supervise inspection activities related to utilities, right-of-way work, roadway construction, and infrastructure development.
Interpret and enforce Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) specifications and quality control requirements.
Review engineering plans for proposed developments to ensure regulatory compliance.
Maintain thorough documentation to meet internal and external auditing standards.
Analyze system needs, identify operational efficiencies, and recommend improvements.
Guide infrastructure planning and capital improvements to support community growth.
Collaborate with contractors, engineers, and other stakeholders to resolve issues effectively.
Serve as a trusted resource for technical expertise in water, wastewater, electric, and public works operations.