POSITION TITLE: Public Works Director
JOB TYPE: Full Time
REPORTS TO: City Administrator
SALARY RANGE: $84,926 - $111,571
JOB OBJECTIVE
Under the direction of the City Administrator with policy input from the City Council, plan, organize, direct, and oversee the operations, programs, and personnel of the Public Works Department, including streets, parks, facilities, fleet, and utility systems (water, sanitary sewer, and stormwater). Responsible for strategic planning, capital improvements, regulatory compliance, and ensuring efficient, safe, and cost-effective delivery of public infrastructure and services.
LICENSING/CERTIFICATION
Required:
- Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record
- Ability to obtain Wisconsin Waterworks and Wastewater Operator Certifications within two (2) years
- Ability to obtain Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) within six (6) months
Preferred:
- Existing Wisconsin water and/or wastewater certifications
- Relevant professional certifications in public works or engineering
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
Administration & Leadership
- Plan, organize, and direct all Public Works operations including streets, utilities, parks, facilities, and fleet management
- Provide leadership, supervision, and evaluation of full-time, part-time, and seasonal staff
- Establish departmental goals, policies, and procedures aligned with City priorities
- Participate in labor relations activities including employee development and discipline
Operations & Infrastructure
- Oversee maintenance, repair, and construction of streets, sidewalks, stormwater systems, and public facilities
- Direct utility operations including water distribution, wastewater collection/treatment, and stormwater management
- Supervise snow and ice control operations and emergency response activities
- Ensure proper maintenance of City vehicles, equipment, and municipal garage operations
- Oversee traffic control devices, signage, and pavement markings in compliance with applicable codes
Capital Planning & Project Management
- With assistance from Administration, develop and implement short- and long-term capital improvement plans
- Manage public works and utility construction projects including budgets, schedules, and contractor performance
- Coordinate with engineers, consultants, and regulatory agencies on infrastructure projects
- Evaluate infrastructure needs and recommend equipment, facility, and system improvements
Budgeting & Financial Management
- Along with Administration staff, prepare and administer departmental operating and capital budgets
- Monitor expenditures and ensure fiscal responsibility
- Assist in long-range financial planning for infrastructure and utilities
Regulatory Compliance & Safety
- Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations related to public works and utilities
- Promote and enforce workplace safety programs and training
- Maintain compliance with environmental and public health standards
Customer Service & Public Engagement
- Respond to inquiries, concerns, and complaints from residents, businesses, and developers
- Provide technical information to the public in a clear and understandable manner
- Represent the department at public meetings, including City Council and committees
Coordination & Emergency Management
- Coordinate activities with other City departments, contractors, and outside agencies
- Serve as a member of the City’s emergency operations team and respond to emergency situations
- Provide leadership during emergencies including weather events and infrastructure failures
General
- Attend meetings, prepare reports, and present recommendations to City officials
- Organize work, set priorities, and meet deadlines
- Perform other duties as assigned
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
- Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, business or public administration or a closely related field or seven years of related, progressively responsible professional experience in public works, utilities, or engineering.
- Minimum of five years of direct management/supervisory experience.
- Experience in public works operations, infrastructure systems, or municipal utilities
- Ability to obtain water treatment certification and wastewater treatment certification within two years.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
- Knowledge of public works systems including streets, utilities, fleet, and facilities
- Knowledge of construction methods, materials, and maintenance practices
- Knowledge of budgeting, capital planning, and asset management
- Ability to lead, supervise, and motivate staff
- Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously
- Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills, particularly in emergency situations
- Ability to communicate effectively with elected officials, staff, and the public
- Ability to interpret and apply regulations, ordinances, and technical standards
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Adobe Acrobat, and other work-related software
- Ability to build collaborative relationships with internal and external stakeholders
- The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.
Benefits
Clothing Allowance, Deferred Compensation, Dental, Health Insurance, Life Insurance, Paid Holidays, Sick Leave, Vacation, Comp Time, Wisconsin Retirement Fund, 10 Paid Holidays plus 3 Floating Holidays.
Apply
To apply for a position with the Prescott Public Works Department please follow the link provided. Submit the City application, a cover letter and resume. The potential start date for this position is based upon completion of an interview and background check.
All application paperwork must be complete and submitted by 1:30pm on June 26, 2026.
Send, drop-off or email Cover Letter, Resume, and City application too:
Matt Wolf
800 Borner Street
Prescott, WI 54021Email: [email protected]
Pay: $84,926.00 - $111,571.00 per year
Work Location: In person
