Deputy Director of Public Works

Job Summary  

• Under general supervision of the Director of Public Works, assists in the management, planning, organization, and direction of work in the Department of Public Works, which includes County Roads, Environmental Operations (Solid Waste, Recycling, and Public Landings), Buildings & Grounds Maintenance, Water & Wastewater Services, and the County’s Noxious Weed Control program.  Work requires exercise of considerable professional judgment and initiative within the framework of established regulations, and policies. In the absence of the Director of Public Works, this position may assume the duties of the department director when assigned.

Essential Functions

Functions listed are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.

• Assist in the direction of operations, employees, programs, projects, and activities of the Department of Public Works.
• Assist and make recommendations for the preparation and implementation of the department’s budget, capital improvement plan, and appropriate master plans consistent with standard operating procedures and department priorities.
• Research and prepare detailed engineering reports and conduct departmental reviews for various purposes including interdepartmental, outside regulatory agencies, contractors, consultants, vendors, and the general public.
• Perform administration, engineering review and inspection of the County stormwater management program.
• Provide management and oversight of County building and grounds maintenance operations and contractors.
• Perform and/or Oversee design, procurement, and construction management of County Capital projects and continuously address effective and efficient service delivery.
• Develop, recommend, revise, and enforce organizational and departmental standard operating procedures including County policies and safety rules and regulations.
• Participate and make recommendations in personnel matters including, but not limited to, interviewing and selecting employees, appraising productivity and efficiency of employees, reviewing performance evaluations completed by division managers of their subordinates, offering advice and assistance when necessary, and handling employee complaints.
• Administers MD SHA State Aid Program and County bridge Inspection program.
• Keep abreast of problems, circumstances, activities or events which may/will affect the department and keep the Director apprised of concerns.
• Provide ongoing administration and oversight of various County engineering contracts and agreements for which the Public Works Department is responsible.
• Review and respond to questions, comments, complaints and requests for service lodged by the general public and recommend, establish, and implement revisions to departmental rules, regulations, policies, and procedures when deemed appropriate.
• Assist with the development, implementation, administration and enforcement of departmental emergency operations, policies, and procedures.
• Reviews construction plans; oversees project management activities.
• Prepare and assist in making presentations before the County Commissioners and other events on matters pertaining to the Department when assigned.
• Assist the Director and other Staff in the evaluation of programs and projects for grant applications.

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Supervision: The position reports to the Director of Public Works.  The position directly or indirectly supervises department divisions and staff.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

The employee is expected to perform or possess the following:

• Be able to contribute to a positive group environment byparticipating in proactive team efforts to achieve departmental and county-wide goals; assisting other co-workers on special projects as required; and providing leadership to others through example and by sharing knowledge and skills.
• Ability to conduct themselves in a professional and ethical manner.
• Possession of effective leadership skills to efficiently organize, direct, and coordinate the activities, personnel, and equipment of a multi-functional Public Works department, including strong project management skills.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously and complete in a timely manner.
• Ability to effectively communicate with elected and appointed officials, employees, agencies, other governmental entities, and the public.
• Possession of effective negotiations skills in public speaking and conflict resolution.
• Ability to promote and support the department’s visions and objectives while promoting career development and leadership throughout the Public Works Department
• Communications Skills: Ability to build and maintain effective relationships with public officials, customers, staff and vendors.  Ability to write clearly and informatively prepare technical reports, status updates and funding applications; ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from staff, supervisors and stakeholders.
• Customer Service: Represent the department professionally and effectively in both internal and external interactions. Manages difficult or challenging situations successfully. Treats others with respect and consideration regardless of cultural background, status, or position.  Exhibits objectivity and openness to others’ views.
• Leadership and Management Skills: Creates and communicates the department’s vision.  Builds commitment and supports employee growth and success. Sets expectations and monitors activities.  Recognizes the accomplishments of others; demonstrates ability to create and lead in a team-oriented environment. Builds morale and group commitment to goals and objectives.  Inspires and motivates others to perform well. Demonstrates effective problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Innovation and Change Management Skills: Displays original thinking and creativity.  Develops innovative approaches and ideas.  Presents ideas and information in a manner that is easily understood.  Understands and contributes to evolving processes in response to changing communities and advances in technology.
• Technical Skills: Uses e-mail to connect and communicate with staff and stakeholders. Effectively uses the Internet to access local, state and federal data and information. Utilizes standard office software to track County operations, projects and initiatives.

Education and Experience:

1. Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, sanitary or environmental engineering, construction management or related field.
2. Five to seven years’ experience, including two years of supervisory experience, in field relevant to Department’s Division(s), or equivalent technical training, education or experience. 

1. Experience in Local Government operations preferred.
2. Licensed as a Professional Engineer desirable.
3. Valid Class C Driver’s License or equivalent and an acceptable motor vehicle record.
4. Knowledge of standard office software.

Physical and Environmental Conditions:

• Work is typically conducted in a normal office setting which provides comfortable lighting, temperature and air conditions. Occasional light lifting, such as three to four reams of paper, four or five books, or other materials (up to 50 pounds) may be required. 

• Work may require exposure to extreme weather conditions or exposure to hazardous chemicals at treatment facilities. 

• Work environment involves everyday risks or discomforts which require normal safety precautions typical of such places as offices or meeting rooms, e.g. use of safe workplace practices with office equipment, and/or avoidance of trips and falls and observance of fire regulations.

Kent County Government provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.