Public Works Field Operations Manager

The Public Works Field Operations Manager is responsible for planning, managing, directing and supervising the day-to-day administrative and operational activities within the Public Works Operations division, including maintenance, utilities and equipment services. Work includes coordination and collaboration with the Public Works Director and Public Works Internal Operations Manager for planning and implementation of department projects, programs, policies and procedures. This position contributes to the development and administration of the proposed budget for Public Works field operations.

The City of Astoria Public Works Operations is divided into six divisions. The Shop and Yard Division is responsible for the overall administration of operations, daily reports, meter records, purchasing and receiving of all parts and equipment for fleet maintenance and infrastructure for approximately 400 pieces of City owned equipment and vehicles in addition to operation and maintenance of the fueling facility for City equipment. The Sewer Division operates and maintains the collection and treatment facilities of sanitary sewer. There are over 68 miles of pipe, more than 1,600 manholes, 2 major pump stations, 3 lift stations and several smaller pump stations that convey combined sewer to the Wastewater Treatment Facility. At the Wastewater Treatment Facility, the sewerage is then aerated, chlorinated, dechlorinated and discharged to the Columbia River in accordance to State regulations. The Water Division operates and maintains a 3,700 acre watershed, slow sand filter treatment facility, 12 mile transmission water line, 2 covered reservoirs, 4002 water meters, 443 fire hydrants and over 80 miles of water line from 1" to 18" in addition to managing the backflow program for over 600 backflow devices. The Streets Division handles street sweeping, pothole patching, roadside mowing, crosswalk and directional arrow delineation, street sign maintenance, snow plow/sanding and de-icing of streets. The Sanitation Division monitors the former landfill site. The Storm Water Division operates and maintains all catch basins, inlets and facilities that convey and store storm water.

The is a full-time position regularly scheduled to work Monday - Friday and subject to emergency callouts 24/7 by radio, phone and/or in-person.

• Recommends and establishes priorities and schedules projects for personnel in assigned field operations functions.
• Provides information and input for preparation of annual budget to the Public Works Internal Operations Manager; assists in managing expenditures.
• Determines manner in which field projects are to be handled, including equipment, material, personnel and time required; communicates such to personnel; orders required materials and arranges for equipment.
• Reviews work in progress and upon completion on-site; gives direction for work between various maintenance crews and individual employees.
• Maintains written and/or computerized records of projects assigned, in progress and completed; addresses problems in work processing or makes related recommendations to the division head to assure proper project completion.
• Provides leadership to field operations employees to establish work standards and expectations and provide resources to support accomplishing department goals.
• Ensures orientation and training of new employees, establishes work and vacation schedules.
• Conducts on-the-job training and formal training classes in safety, work procedures and related areas; ensures safe working habits are being followed.
• Prepares performance evaluations on all assigned personnel, and follows up on performance concerns.
• Effectively recommends hiring, promotion, discipline, termination and other personnel actions affecting employees supervised.
• Inspects appearance and readiness of employees and equipment for safe and professional operation.
• Displays excellent communication skills including presentation, persuasion, and negotiation skills required in working with coworkers/public, including the ability to communicate effectively and remain calm and courteous under pressure.
• Maintains punctual, regular and predictable attendance.
• Works collaboratively in a team environment with a spirit of cooperation as a team leader.
• Respectfully takes direction from the supervisor.
• Follows all safety rules and procedures established for various work areas.
• Follows policies, procedures, and guidelines as described in the City of Astoria Personnel Manual and other documentation related to this position.

• Thorough knowledge of the methods, material and equipment used in the construction, operation and maintenance of streets, stormwater, wastewater and water systems including some knowledge of the principles of mechanics, hydraulics and electricity.
• Considerable knowledge of public works safety procedures and of State and Federal regulations, laws and requirements for Public Works.
• Knowledge of pertinent federal, state, and local laws, codes, and regulations pertaining to municipal governments (i.e., OSHA, FHWA, ODOT, EPA, DEQ, OHA, FEMA, etc.)
• Ability to plan, organize, prioritize, supervise, establish work standards, review performance, and train others.
• Ability to write work reports, maintain records and logs, and read and interpret technical manuals, work orders, blueprints, diagrams, and sketches. Ability to read, analyze, and interpret technical manuals, work orders, plans, maps, professional journals, governmental regulations and other documents related to public works operations.
• Ability to effectively prepare and present information and respond to questions from public officials, City staff, community organizations and the general public.
• Proficient at using computers and various software including email, scheduling software, word processing, spreadsheets, project management and financial applications.
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with public officials, City staff, community organizations and the general public.

Directly supervises Utility Workers, Utility Technicians, the Sweeper Operator, the Mower Operator/Utility Worker I and temporary employees. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems.

Ability to perform essential job duties with or without reasonable accommodation and without posing a direct threat to safety or health of employee or others. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

1. Five years of progressively responsible public works/construction experience including supervisory responsibilities; or any equivalent combination of experience and training which demonstrates the knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the above described duties.
2. Possession of a Water Distribution II and Wastewater Collection II certification within three years of hire.
3. Possession of a valid Driver's License with safe driving record and possession of or ability to obtain a minimum Class A commercial drivers license with air brakes, hazmat and tanker endorsements within 12 months of hire.
4. Post-job offer a background check (including state and federal criminal records, social security number trace, sex offender registry and motor vehicle records checks) and drug screen will be required.

1. Possession of Wastewater Treatment II, Wastewater Collections IV, Water Distribution II, and Water Treatment l.
2. Possession of an Oregon Cross Connection Specialist Certification
3. Public Pesticide Applicator License

• Subject to 24-hour call out, 7 days a week in emergencies by radio, phone and/or in-person.
• Must be able to use a respirator as determined by a professionally licensed health care professional (PLHCP) while performing various work tasks;
• Must live within 30 lawful driving minutes of City limits.
• Must have reliable phone service.

Work is divided between office and field sites which include working in all types of weather conditions. The position requires walking on uneven terrain and crawling in confined areas. Work is subject to multiple, changing priorities and periodic emergency situations.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands and fingers to handle or feel; talk or hear; and sit. The employee is frequently required to stand and walk. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move materials up to 50 pounds.

City of Astoria, Oregon