What are the responsibilities and job description for the Public Works Superintendent position at City of Cheboygan?
Overview
Reporting to the Director of Public Works, the Public Works Superintendent is responsible for overseeing the daily operations and long-term planning of the City’s public infrastructure systems. This includes water distribution, wastewater collection, streets, facilities, and related services.
This is a hands-on leadership role requiring both field presence and administrative oversight. The Superintendent plays a key role in ensuring the reliability, safety, and sustainability of the City’s infrastructure while leading and developing a dedicated team.
Department Overview
- 4-5 full-time staff
- 49 miles of water main
- 49 miles of sanitary sewer
- 40 miles of storm sewer
- 9 lift stations
- 49 miles of streets
- Oversight of parks, facilities, and cemetery operations
- Support from multiple City departments
Key Responsibilities:
- Supervise and lead Public Works staff and daily operations
- Plan, coordinate, and oversee infrastructure projects and capital improvements
- Develop and manage departmental budgets
- Ensure compliance with all applicable regulations, including EGLE, EPA, and MDOT requirements
- Oversee operations of water, sewer, streets, and municipal facilities
- Coordinate with engineers, contractors, developers, and the public
- Prepare reports, technical specifications, and bid documents
- Advise the City Manager and City Council on infrastructure needs and priorities
- Present information to City Council, boards, and community stakeholders
- Respond to emergencies and participate in after-hours operations as needed
Desired Qualifications and Attributes
The ideal candidate will be:
- Professional, dependable, and results-oriented
- Solution-focused, with the ability to manage complex infrastructure challenges
- Capable of balancing field operations with administrative responsibilities
- An effective communicator who can engage staff, elected officials, and the public
- Forward-thinking, with an emphasis on efficiency, technology, and long-term planning
Minimum and Preferred Qualifications
- Minimum of five (5) years of experience in public works, utilities, or a related field
- Demonstrated leadership or supervisory experience
- Experience with water and wastewater systems preferred
- Michigan S-2 Water Distribution License (or ability to obtain)
- Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) (or ability to obtain)
- Additional certifications in water production, wastewater, or stormwater operations are desirable and may qualify for incentives
- Background in engineering, construction management, or municipal operations preferred
Equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered.
Compensation and Benefits
The City of Cheboygan offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications, along with a comprehensive benefits package including:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- MERS retirement system
- Paid time off and other standard municipal benefits
Application Process:
Interested candidates should visit the City of Cheboygan website to obtain an employment application. Applicants must submit:
- Cover letter
- Resume
- Completed City application
Application Deadline: June 1, 2026
Submit materials via email to:
Daniel Sabolsky, City Manager
dsabolsky@cheboygan.org
Questions regarding the position may be directed to:
Jason Karmol, Director of Public Works
jkarmol@cheboygan.org
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $1.00 - $100,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
Salary : $1,000 - $100,000