Deputy Chief of Public Works

County Of Albemarle•Charlottesville, VA

12h•Hybrid

About The Position

Performs operational management, planning, and coordination to support the County’s Public Works programs and related capital improvement initiatives. Oversees a diverse portfolio of operational services such as public right‑of‑way maintenance, facility support functions, stormwater maintenance, fleet coordination, and other internal service programs. This position requires a highly organized individual capable of managing multiple concurrent programs, prioritizing complex workloads, and adapting quickly to evolving operational needs. The Deputy Chief of Public Works collaborates closely with County departments, contractors, community partners, and occasionally elected officials to ensure effective service delivery and alignment with County goals. The role includes responsibility for contract oversight, program evaluation, budget development, and staff supervision. The Deputy Chief of Public Works is an Essential Employee and is subject to after‑hours recall for emergency response.

Requirements

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with department officials, employees, contractors, partner agencies, and the public.
Knowledge of supervisory principles and experience managing/supervising technical, skilled, and unskilled workers.
Ability to organize and plan work within a budget; develop cost estimates; and manage public works equipment and fleet assets.
Ability to read and understand architectural/engineering plans and project sketches.
Ability to interpret and apply policies and procedures; gather data; conduct research; and prepare clear reports/correspondence.
Proficiency with personal computers and application software, including Microsoft 365.
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited four‑year college or university in a technical discipline such as civil engineering, structural engineering, environmental engineering, architecture, industrial technology, environmental sciences, or a closely related field.
Candidates with ten (10) or more years of progressively responsible experience in Public Works fields will be considered.
Minimum of five years of comprehensive experience managing public works programs or transportation/public service operations.
Minimum of five years working in an operations management or management support role.
Possession of a valid appropriate driver's license issued by the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in a technical field such as civil, structural, or environmental engineering; architecture; industrial technology; environmental sciences; or a closely related discipline.
Progressive, responsible experience in management and administration of diversified public works or municipal operations.
Demonstrated ability to lead and supervise engaged and productive employees; service‑minded leadership experience such as former military officer preferred.

Responsibilities

Leads countywide Public Works operations and general services, including right‑of‑way maintenance (e.g., roadway lighting, mowing, street sweeping, roadside litter removal) and non‑safety signage programs, ensuring consistent service delivery and quality standards.
Oversees planning, performance management, and continuous improvement across Public Works services; ensure compliance with applicable laws, permits, and ordinances and maintains strong coordination with state and local partners such as VDOT and regional utilities.
Develops, justifies, and manages operating and capital budgets for Public Works programs, steward special revenue funds, and align resources with service priorities and County goals.
Directs contract strategy and vendor management for maintenance and service work; negotiate, award, administer, and evaluate contracts to ensure value, safety, and performance.
Coordinates delivery of multi‑department and multi‑jurisdiction projects and right‑of‑way activities; represents Public Works through briefings, reports, and presentations.
Leads emergency preparedness and incident response for Public Works operations, serving as an Essential Employee available for after‑hours recall.
Provides strategic workforce leadership: set priorities, mentors supervisors and crew, promote a culture of safety, accountability, and customer service; recruit and develop talent aligned with anticipated program growth.
Champions innovation and sustainability within Public Works, including EV fleet transition, litter reduction initiatives, and streetscape/landscape upkeep.
Performs related tasks as required.