Public Works Director

Position Summary

The Town of Mount Olive is seeking an experienced and dynamic Public Works Director to lead and manage all operations of the Public Works and Utility Departments. This leadership role oversees services including street maintenance and construction; gas, water, sewer, and stormwater systems; yard waste; and other related divisions. The Director is responsible for strategic planning, regulatory compliance, budgeting, and ensuring efficient service delivery to the community.

The Town offers a competitive benefits package including retirement, paid holidays, medical insurance, 401(k), and more. Residency within town limits is not required, but candidates must live within a reasonable distance as determined by the Town Manager.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Management

• Assume full management responsibility for all Public Works and Utility Departments' services and activities.
• Direct and supervise departmental staff; provide training, mentorship, and performance evaluations.
• Administer personnel policies, recognition programs, and disciplinary actions.
• Promote a culture of accountability, safety, and teamwork.

Strategic Planning & Operations

• Develop and implement departmental goals, objectives, policies, and priorities.
• Monitor and evaluate service delivery methods; allocate resources effectively.
• Plan, direct, and coordinate work plans; assign projects and review work methods.
• Assess and monitor workload, administrative systems, and reporting relationships; implement improvements.

Regulatory Compliance & Safety

• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
• Maintain and submit reports for environmental permits and other government agencies.
• Enforce safety protocols and oversee use of protective equipment.
• Respond to emergencies, adverse weather events, and coordinate FEMA-related activities.

Technical & Engineering Support

• Assist in planning and design of infrastructure projects.
• Review construction for compliance with specifications.
• Coordinate design, construction, inspection, and maintenance activities.

Financial & Administrative Management

• Develop and manage operating and capital budgets.
• Monitor expenditures and ensure cost-effective operations.
• Prepare reports, public notices, and grant documentation.
• Maintain accurate records of operations, maintenance, and inspections.

Community & Interdepartmental Relations

• Address citizen inquiries and service requests.
• Represent the Town at public meetings and with external stakeholders.
• Provide educational outreach on public works topics.
• Submit weekly reports to the Governing Body.

Additional Duties

• Attend professional group meetings; stay abreast of new trends and innovations.
• Respond to and resolve difficult and sensitive citizen inquiries and complaints.
• May be called on after hours as necessary.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Valid North Carolina Commercial Driver's License (CDL) required.
• Preferred Qualification: Possession of a North Carolina Public Pesticide Applicator License.
• Five (5) years of management experience in a municipal environment; supervisory experience preferred.
• Bachelor's degree preferred; equivalent experience and certifications may be considered.
• Strong knowledge of public works operations, construction techniques, facility maintenance, and regulatory compliance.
• Ability to plan, organize, and direct staff; delegate authority and responsibility.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Technical proficiency in interpreting maps, manuals, blueprints, and schematics.
• Ability to operate trucks, trenchers, backhoes, mowers, sewer jet cleaners, and other equipment.

Working Conditions

• Office and field environment; may work in inclement weather.
• Physical requirements include sitting, standing, and walking for prolonged periods; operating motorized vehicles.

About the Town of Mount Olive

The Town of Mount Olive is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce. We believe that diversity and inclusion are essential to our success and strive to create a workplace where all individuals are respected and valued.

Disclaimer

This job description outlines the general nature and level of work performed in this role. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. The Town of Mount Olive reserves the right to modify or assign additional duties as necessary

Pay: From $52,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person