What is a Public Works Director Job?
A public works director job is a high-level position responsible for overseeing the design, construction, maintenance, and operation of public infrastructure and facilities, including roads, bridges, utilities, parks, and public buildings. Public works directors are typically employed by local and state governments, as well as private companies that provide public services.
What Usually Do in This Position?
Public works directors are responsible for managing all aspects of public works projects, from developing project plans to overseeing construction and maintenance activities. They work closely with other government officials, engineers, architects, contractors, and community members to ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of quality.
In addition to managing projects, public works directors also oversee the hiring and training of staff, develop and manage budgets, coordinate with other government agencies and departments, and ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and safety standards. They must be skilled communicators, able to effectively communicate complex technical information to a wide range of stakeholders, including elected officials, community members, and the media.
Top 5 Skills for Position
To be successful in a public works director job, individuals must possess a wide range of skills and experience, including:
- Leadership and management skills: Public works directors must be highly skilled leaders and managers, with the ability to effectively manage teams, delegate tasks, and motivate staff to achieve project goals.
- Technical expertise: Public works directors must have a deep understanding of engineering, construction, and maintenance principles, as well as strong analytical skills to evaluate project plans and identify potential issues or risks.
- Communication skills: Public works directors must be skilled communicators, able to effectively communicate complex technical information to a wide range of stakeholders, including elected officials, community members, and the media.
- Financial management skills: Public works directors must be skilled in financial management, with the ability to develop and manage budgets, negotiate contracts, and identify cost-saving opportunities.
- Problem-solving skills: Public works directors must be skilled problem solvers, with the ability to quickly and effectively identify and address issues that arise during project planning, construction, and maintenance activities.
How to Become This Type of Specialist?
To become a public works director, individuals typically need to have a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, construction management, or a related field. Some public works directors may have advanced degrees in business administration, public administration, or a related field.
In addition to formal education, public works directors typically have several years of experience working in the public works industry, with experience in project management, engineering, or construction. They may also have experience working in government or other public sector organizations.
To advance to a public works director position, individuals must demonstrate strong leadership and management skills, as well as technical expertise in engineering, construction, and maintenance principles. They must also be skilled communicators, with the ability to effectively communicate complex technical information to a wide range of stakeholders.
Average Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for construction managers, which includes public works directors, was $97,180 as of May 2020. The highest-paid construction managers earned more than $166,430, while the lowest-paid earned less than $56,140.
Actual salaries for public works directors may vary depending on a variety of factors, including location, years of experience, and industry.
Roles and Types
Public works directors may work in a variety of roles and settings, including:
- Local government: Many public works directors work for local government agencies, overseeing the design, construction, and maintenance of local infrastructure and facilities.
- State government: Some public works directors work for state government agencies, overseeing the design, construction, and maintenance of state infrastructure and facilities.
- Private companies: Some public works directors work for private companies that provide public services, such as water or energy utilities.
- Consulting firms: Some public works directors work for consulting firms that provide engineering and construction services to government agencies and private companies.
Locations with the Most Popular Jobs in USA
Public works director jobs are available in many locations throughout the United States, but some areas may have more opportunities than others. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the states with the highest employment levels for construction managers, which includes public works directors, as of May 2020 were:
- California
- Texas
- Florida
- New York
- North Carolina
What are the Typical Tools?
Public works directors may use a variety of tools and technologies to manage projects and oversee construction and maintenance activities. Some typical tools and technologies include:
- Project management software: Public works directors may use specialized project management software to develop and manage project schedules, budgets, and resources.
- Geographic information systems (GIS): Public works directors may use GIS software to analyze spatial data and develop maps and other visualizations of infrastructure and facilities.
- Computer-aided design (CAD) software: Public works directors may use CAD software to create detailed plans and designs for infrastructure and facilities.
- Inspection tools: Public works directors may use a variety of inspection tools, such as thermometers, gauges, and laser levels, to inspect construction and maintenance activities and ensure compliance with safety standards.
In Conclusion
Public works directors play a critical role in ensuring the safety, quality, and functionality of public infrastructure and facilities. To be successful in this position, individuals must possess a wide range of skills and experience, including leadership and management skills, technical expertise, communication skills, financial management skills, and problem-solving skills. With the right education and experience, individuals can build a rewarding career as a public works director and make a significant contribution to their communities.