Deputy Director for Public Works ( {{city}})

Operational Technical Services (OTS) is one of the fastest-growing private water and wastewater utility staffing providers in the country. We provide certified professionals in water treatment, distribution, wastewater treatment, collections, engineering, laboratory, maintenance, and training to municipalities, special districts, and private utilities across the U.S. OTS offers temporary, temp-to-hire, direct hire, and emergency on-call opportunities with excellent benefits.

TITLE: Administrative Deputy Director for Public Works

SALARY: $125,000 - $150,000/year

LOCATION: Manatee County, Florida

WORK HOURS: Weekdays 7 am 4 pm, with availability for evenings, weekends, holidays, and emergency response.

Scope of Services:

Under administrative direction, manages the Citys administrative public works programs. Coordinates capital project development and execution. Provides complex administrative support to the Director of Public Works & Utilities and may act on their behalf at the City Administrators discretion.

Challenges:

Assist with wastewater system and infrastructure upgrades, ensuring compliance and operational improvements. Address issues in the collection system, ensure backup power availability, and align operations with future growth. Support the Citys Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), asset management evaluation, and technology integration for operational efficiency.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assist Director in planning, managing, and overseeing departmental activities.
• Support development and implementation of department goals, policies, and priorities.
• Monitor efficiency and effectiveness of service delivery and internal systems.
• Lead selection, training, and evaluation of staff; assign and review work.
• Coordinate administrative functions with centralized HR, Finance, and Purchasing departments.
• Assist in developing and managing budgets, tracking costs, and approving expenditures.
• Oversee RFP processes and ensure compliance with project specs and regulations.
• Administer consultant and contractor work; ensure code and standard compliance.
• Serve as liaison to City departments, divisions, and outside agencies.
• Prepare reports and presentations for City leadership and the public.
• Investigate and resolve public complaints and service requests.
• Participate in planning and managing capital improvement projects.
• Prepare or support state and federal grant applications and monitor compliance.
• Lead long-range planning initiatives and accreditation efforts (e.g., APWA).
• Foster collaboration, innovation, and efficiency within the department.
• Apply policies, laws, and regulations related to public works operations.
• Analyze issues, recommend solutions, and implement improvements.
• Oversee and improve the Departments administrative policies and operations.
• Monitor and improve service delivery methods and internal processes.
• Administer contracts and ensure fiscal and operational accountability.
• Maintain accuracy and currency of City contracts; identify future service needs.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:

• Strong knowledge of budget administration, contracting, and public bidding.
• Understanding of civil engineering, permitting, and construction practices.
• Familiarity with federal, state, and local public works regulations.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to build positive relationships with staff, officials, and the public.
• Infrastructure planning and performance monitoring.
• Adaptability to new technologies and methods; ability to coordinate training.
• Strong research and data analysis skills; clear report and recommendation development.
• Leadership in asset management systems implementation and training.
• Lead and support APWA or similar accreditation initiatives.
• Visionary leadership for Public Works programs and strategic goals.
• Administrative support to management; make sound, sustainable decisions.
• Represent the department professionally in reports and presentations.
• Delegate responsibility effectively and manage complex operations.
• Assess feasibility and coordinate all phases of municipal projects.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Computer Equipment and Software Requirements:

Computer with Windows OS; Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.).

Education and Experience Required:

• Bachelors in construction management, urban planning, architecture, civil engineering, or related field.
• Minimum 8 years of public works experience in the public sector.
• At least 4 years in a management or supervisory role within the last 8 years.
• A Masters degree may substitute for part of the experience.
• Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.
• Must possess and maintain a valid Florida Drivers License.

Environmental Conditions:

Primarily indoor work with occasional outdoor exposure to extreme conditions. May involve loud noises, heavy equipment, live sewer systems, hazardous materials, and uneven or slippery surfaces. Physical effort may be required for confined spaces, climbing, or extended standing. Subject to 24-hour emergency call-back. All necessary safety equipment and training will be provided.

MUST HAVES FOR ROLE:

• Utility Pants: Durable work-appropriate pants required.
• Safety Shoes: Steel-toed or protective footwear mandatory.
• Background Check & Drug Screening: Required prior to hire.
• Work Authorization: Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S.

Operational Technical Services (OTS) is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.