ASSISTANT DIRECTOR PUBLIC WORKS

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS
ADMINISTRATION

Salary Range $92,171 - $119,121 annually (rates effective 7/1/2026)

Definition
Professional supervisory and financial work relating to the oversight of and operation of the Department Public Works; all other related work, as required. Performs responsible work in the coordination and administration of department operations; requiring the exercise of professional judgment in analyzing facts and circumstances of situations to determine the appropriate course of action.

Supervision
Works under the direction of the Director of Public Works.

Directly supervises 6 to 8 employees in the administrative office of the Department of Public Works and assists the Director in the supervision of more than 75 employees, as well as seasonal staff.

Work Environment
Most work is generally performed under typical office conditions; occasionally outside work involves exposure to variable weather conditions and hazards associated with construction sites. The volume of work is subject to emergencies and weather-related conditions. The employee is regularly required to attend evening meetings and work outside of normal business hours; the employee is on call to respond to emergencies.

The employee operates standard office equipment.

The employee has regular contact with the general public and regular contacts requiring perceptiveness and discretion with staff, other town departments, committees, and outside agencies. Contacts with the public can be hostile. Contact is in person, by telephone, text message, e-mail and in writing.

The employee has access to department-oriented confidential information, including personnel records and other employee information, lawsuits, and bid documents.

Errors in administrative decisions could result in injury to others, delay or loss of service, damage to buildings or equipment, monetary loss, and legal repercussions.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.

Assists the Director in planning, organizing and coordinating the administration and operation of the Department of Public Works.

Manages a variety of short and long term projects as assigned by the Director.

Responds to complaints and requests for service and information from residents and other departments; evaluates complaints and resolves problems; meets with residents and prepares written responses to citizen requests and complaints.

Assists in the resolution of personnel problems, disputes and concerns; assists with the selection and evaluation of employees.

Prepares and administers capital and operating budgets including enterprise funds; monitors department expenditures; maintains personnel records and prepares relevant departmental reports. Assists the Director in preparation for collective bargaining and grievance responses.

Performs financial analysis on departmental expenditures, and completes comprehensive projections on future spending

Performs statistical analysis for reports, planning and evaluation of services and resources in various areas throughout the department. Utilizes cost benefit analysis and recommends modifications throughout the various divisions of the Department of Public Works.

Performs detailed analysis on all revenues collected by the department and prepares periodic reports for the Director relative to current trends and revenue forecasts. Researches and analyzes direct and indirect costs and their relationship with the Enterprise Funds.

Periodically reviews payroll and accounts payable expenditures to maintain proper budgetary control. Assists in the establishment of administrative controls to record activities, attendance, overtime, and projected salary expenditures

Oversees administration of requisite licenses and related documentation for DPW personnel. Ensures compliance with state and federal laws associated with Commercial Driver’s Licenses including administration of the department’s random drug testing requirements.

Participates in the development of grant proposals, management of grants, and assists the department in the preparation of federal and state reimbursements.

Analyzes the various forms, applications and processes utilized throughout the department and prepares modifications and improvements to ensure quality and efficiency. Assists in the creation and development of procedures and processes necessary to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the administrative functions of the Department of Public Works.

Exercises sound judgment and considerable independent discretion in solving problems and accomplishing department and town-wide goals and objectives.

Oversees, administers, and organizes confidential department material. Prepares various administrative studies, forecasts, reports, correspondence, memoranda, and other documents, as required.

Closely records and monitors all insurance claims and vehicle accidents relative to the Department of Public Works.

Handles all procurement and contract administration for the Department of Public Works, including formulation and preparation of bid specifications and background material.

Updates and maintains the website and social media for the Department of Public Works. Posts weather related sports field closures in coordination with Parks Supervisor and Recreation Staff.

Prepares Public Works content of Annual Town Report.

Acts as the Director of the Department in their absence.

Performs other similar or related work, as required, or as situation dictates.

Recommended Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience
Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering or Public Administration or related field; three to five years public works supervisory experience; or an equivalent combination of education and government experience.

Additional Requirements
Valid Massachusetts Driver’s License.

Knowledge, Ability and Skill
Extensive knowledge of the principals and practices of financial accounting and analysis. Thorough knowledge of local, state, and federal laws and regulations governing the municipal infrastructure and relating to public works functions; knowledge of public construction and bidding laws as they relate to public works and construction projects. Extensive budgetary management skills.

Ability to analyze and identify project problems and find solutions; ability to make decisions and find solutions to operational problems. Ability to keep accurate and detailed notes and records. Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and meet deadlines.

Excellent communication skills, both oral and written. Customer service and human relations skills. Ability to de-escalate difficult interpersonal interactions. The capability to exercise tact, diplomacy and maintain confidentiality.

Excellent Computer skills and knowledge of Microsoft Office Products and MUNIS are essential. Knowledge of computer systems and office equipment.

Physical Requirements
Minimal physical effort is generally required to perform duties under typical office conditions. Moderate physical effort is required in the field. The employee is frequently required to sit, speak and hear and use hands to operate equipment. Vision requirements include the ability to read routine and complex documents and use a computer.

This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee, and is subject to change by the employer, as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.

Code : 1296-1

Location : PUBLIC WKS ADM

Grade : MTP13 NU

Group : NON-UNION

Job Class : DPW) ASST. DIR. PUBLIC WORKS

Posting Start : 06/05/2026

Posting End : 06/23/2026

Details : Applicant Tracking