JOB TITLE: DIRECTOR OF ENGINEERING / PUBLIC WORKS
ENGINEERING/PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
GENERAL STATEMENT OF JOB
Under limited supervision, plans, directs and supervises the administration and operations of the Engineering/Public Works Department’s multiple divisions, including Engineering, Building Standards, Stormwater Management, and Streets and Drains. Reports to the City Administrator.
SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
The list of essential functions, as outlined herein, is intended to be representative of the tasks performed within this position title. The omission of an essential function does not preclude management from assigning duties not listed herein if such functions are a logical assignment to the position.
Directs and supervises duties of assigned division heads and support staff. Supervisory duties include instructing; assigning, reviewing and planning work of others; maintaining standards; coordinating activities; allocating personnel; selecting new employees; acting on employee problems, recommending and approving employee discipline and discharge, and recommending employee transfers, promotions and salary increases.
Serves as the City Engineer. Performs independent engineering design and supervises staff in the preparation of plans, specifications, contract documents, etc. for various public works projects, including water supply, sanitary sewage collection, storm drainage, roadways, parking lots, and parks & recreation facilities. Performs construction management and contract administration of such projects.
Reviews and approves residential and commercial development plans to ensure compliance with City standards; meets with developers and engineers; makes recommendations to the Planning Commission and City Council regarding development projects. Reviews City development standards and makes changes as needed to keep current with new technology, products, trends, methods, etc.
Oversees department capital improvement projects and other development and construction activities.
Develops and administers department budgets; approves expenditures and oversees the development and collection of department revenue. Seeks and administers grant funds for special projects and programs.
Reviews the work of subordinates for completeness and accuracy; evaluates and makes recommendations as appropriate; offers advice and assistance as needed.
Reviews City development standards and makes changes as needed to keep current with new technology, products, trends, methods, etc.
Develops short- and long-term plans for department projects and programs.
Attends City Council meetings and provides information as requested.
Prepares a variety of documents, including but not limited to performance appraisals, budget documents, specifications, policies and procedures, schedules, project reports, regulatory reports, planning documents, technical reports, and various other records, reports, memos and correspondence.
Receives and reviews various records and reports including budget reports, building plans, road plans, equipment specifications, schedules, duty rosters, correspondence, memos, etc.
Refers to policy and procedure manuals, computer manuals, safety manual, architectural and engineering drawings, budget manual, master plans, maps, codes, ordinances, etc.
Receives and responds to public and news media inquiries, requests for assistance and complaints.
Develops and oversees the department’s equipment maintenance and replacement program; ensures the availability of safe, properly working vehicles and equipment at all times.
Keeps abreast of trends and issues in public works by reading professional and technical publications and attending conferences, workshops, professional meetings, etc.
Operates a vehicle and a variety of equipment such as a computer, calculator, telephone, copier, scanner, etc.
Attends community meetings and events as appropriate and serves on various committees as required.
ESSENTIAL SAFETY FUNCTIONS
It is the responsibility of each employee to comply with established policies, procedures and safe work practices. Each employee must follow safety training and instructions provided by their supervisor. Each employee must also properly wear and maintain all personal protective equipment required for their job. Finally, each employee must immediately report any unsafe work practices or unsafe conditions as well as any on-the-job injury or illnesses.
Every manager/supervisor is responsible for enforcing all safety rules and regulations. In addition, they are responsible for ensuring that a safe work environment is maintained, safe work practices are followed and employees are properly trained.
ADDITIONAL JOB FUNCTIONS
Performs/coordinates maintenance & service contracts for the Municipal Center.
Performs related duties as required.
MINIMUM TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE
Requires a Bachelor's degree in civil, mechanical, structural or related engineering field supplemented by a minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in public works and engineering operations and administration, some of which has been in a supervisory or managerial capacity, or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities. Must be certified as a S.C. Professional Engineer. Must possess a valid state driver’s license.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS OR STANDARDS REQUIRED
TO PERFORM ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
Physical Requirements: Tasks involve the ability to exert moderate, though not constant, physical effort, typically involving some combination of climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching and crawling, and the lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials of moderate to heavy weight (up to 50 pounds).
Data Conception: Requires the ability to compare and/or judge the readily observable functional, structural or compositional characteristics (whether similar to or divergent from obvious standards) of data, people or things.
Interpersonal Communications: Requires the ability of speaking and/or signaling people to convey or exchange information. Includes giving assignments and/or directions to subordinates and receiving assignments and/or direction from supervisor.
Language Ability: Requires ability to read a variety of policy and procedure manuals, technical manuals, budget documents, architectural / engineering drawings, construction plans, etc. Requires the ability to prepare reports, records, budgets, correspondence, strategic plans, etc., with proper format, punctuation, spelling and grammar, using all parts of speech. Requires the ability to speak with and before others with poise, voice control and confidence.
Intelligence: Requires the ability to apply principles of logical thinking to define problems, collect data, establish facts and draw valid conclusions; to deal with several abstract and concrete variables. Requires the ability to apply influence systems in managing a staff; to learn and understand relatively complex principles and techniques; to make independent judgments in absence of supervision; to acquire knowledge of topics related to primary occupation. Must have the ability to comprehend and interpret received information.
Verbal Aptitude: Requires the ability to record and deliver information, to explain procedures, to follow and give verbal and written instructions; to counsel and teach employees. Must be able to communicate effectively and efficiently in a variety of technical and/or professional languages including budgeting, personnel, civil / mechanical / structural engineering, construction, contract administration, etc.
Numerical Aptitude: Requires the ability to add and subtract totals, to multiply and divide, to utilize mathematical formulas, to determine percentages and decimals and to determine time. Must be able to use practical applications of fractions, percentages, ratio and proportion. Must be able to use advanced applications of algebra, geometry and statistics.
Form/Spatial Aptitude: Requires the ability to inspect items for proper length, width and shape, and visually read various information.
Motor Coordination: Requires the ability to coordinate hands and eyes using office machinery; to operate motor vehicles.
Manual Dexterity: Requires the ability to handle a variety of items, keyboards, office equipment, control knobs, buttons, switches, catches, etc. Must have minimal levels of eye/hand/foot coordination.
Color Discrimination and Visual Acuity: Requires the ability to differentiate colors and shades of color.
Interpersonal Temperament: Requires the ability to deal with people beyond giving and receiving instructions. Must be adaptable to performing under stress when confronted with emergency situations or tight deadlines. The worker may be subject to danger or risk to a slight degree and to tension as a regular, consistent part of the job.
Physical Communications: Requires the ability to talk and hear: (talking: expressing or exchanging ideas by means of spoken words; hearing: perceiving nature of sounds by ear).
PERFORMANCE INDICATORS
Knowledge of Job: Has thorough knowledge of the methods, procedures and policies of the Engineering/ Public Works Department as they pertain to the performance of duties of the Director. Has thorough knowledge of the organization of the Department and of related departments and agencies. Has considerable knowledge of the functions and interrelationships of the City and other governmental agencies. Is knowledgeable in the laws, ordinances, standards and regulations pertaining to the specific duties and responsibilities of the position. Has knowledge of residential and commercial development regulations, rules and standards. Has knowledge in the areas of civil / mechanical / structural engineering, general construction, contract administration, budget administration, personnel, etc. Is able to perform professional engineering work in project design and development, and is able to effectively manage complex construction and installation projects. Is able to make sound, educated decisions. Has the ability to plan and develop daily, short- and long-term goals related to City purposes. Has the ability to plan and coordinate the most effective use of personnel, facilities and resources to achieve department goals. Is able to ensure departmental compliance with all laws and regulations and control the activities of the department through effective supervision. Knows how to apply supervisory and managerial concepts and principles; has knowledge of administrative principles involved in developing, directing and supervising various programs and related activities. Has the ability to offer instruction and advice to subordinates regarding departmental policies, methods and regulations. Is able to perform employee evaluations and to make recommendations based on results. Has the ability to offer training and assistance to co-workers and employees of other departments as required. Has the ability to plan, organize and prioritize daily assignments and work activities. Has the ability to learn and utilize new skills and information to improve job performance and efficiency. Is able to read and interpret complex materials pertaining to the responsibilities of the job. Is able to assemble and analyze information and make written reports and records in a concise, clear and effective manner. Has comprehensive knowledge of the terminology and various professional languages used within the department. Knows how to maintain effective relationships with personnel of other departments, professionals and members of the public through contact and cooperation. Has the ability to negotiate among different constituency groups with diverse interests to achieve a shared understanding and commonality of purpose. Knows how to make public presentations. Has thorough knowledge of proper English usage, vocabulary, spelling and advanced mathematics. Is able to compile, organize and utilize various financial information necessary in the preparation of the departmental budget, and knows how to prepare and monitor the budget. Has thorough knowledge of computers and modern technology. Has knowledge of and skill in the use of computers for word processing and records management. Has knowledge of applicable occupational hazards and safety precautions. Is able to work effectively despite infrequent exposure to adverse environmental conditions, including extreme heat / cold, wetness, humidity, dusts, pollen, fumes, working at heights and in confined spaces, construction and traffic hazards. Knows how to react calmly and quickly in emergency situations.
Quality of Work: Maintains high standards of accuracy in exercising duties and responsibilities. Exercises immediate remedial action to correct any quality deficiencies that occur in areas of responsibility. Maintains high quality communication and interaction with internal and external entities with whom the position interacts.
Quantity of Work: Performs described Essential Functions and related assignments efficiently and effectively in order to produce quantity of work which consistently meets established standards and expectations.
Dependability: Assumes responsibility for completing assigned work. Completes assigned work within deadlines in accordance with directives, policy, standards and prescribed procedures. Maintains accountability for assigned responsibilities in the technical, human and conceptual areas.
Attendance: Attends and remains at work regularly and adheres to policies and procedures regarding absenteeism and tardiness. Provides adequate notice to higher management with respect to vacation time and leave requests.
Initiative and Enthusiasm: Maintains an enthusiastic, self-reliant and self-starting approach to meet job responsibilities and accountabilities. Strives to anticipate work to be accomplished, and initiates proper and acceptable action for the completion of work with a minimum of supervision and instruction.
Judgment: Exercises analytical judgment in areas of responsibility. Identifies issues or situations as they occur and specifies decision objectives. Identifies or assists in identifying alternative solutions to issues or situations. Implements decisions in accordance with prescribed and effective policies and procedures and with a minimum of errors. Seeks expert or experienced advice where appropriate and researches issues, situations and alternatives before exercising judgment.
Cooperation: Accepts supervisory instruction and direction and strives to meet the goals and objectives of same. Questions such instruction and direction when clarification of results or consequences are justified, i.e., poor communications, variance with established policies or procedures, etc. Offers suggestions and recommendations to encourage and improve cooperation intra- and inter-departmentally.
Relationships with Others: Shares knowledge with managers, supervisors and co-workers for mutual benefit. Contributes to maintaining high morale among all employees. Develops and maintains cooperative and courteous relationships inter- and intra-departmentally, and with external entities with whom the position interacts. Tactfully and effectively handles requests, suggestions and complaints in order to establish and maintain good will. Emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive image.
Coordination of Work: Plans and organizes daily work routine. Establishes priorities for the completion of work in accordance with sound time-management methodology. Avoids duplication of effort. Estimates expected time of completion of work elements and establishes a personal schedule accordingly. Attends required meetings, planning sessions and discussions on time. Implements work activity in accordance with priorities and estimated schedules.
Safety and Housekeeping: Adheres to all established safety and housekeeping standards. Ensures such standards are not violated.
Planning: Plans, coordinates and uses information effectively to enhance activities and production. Knows and understands expectations regarding such activities and works to ensure such expectations are met. Develops and formulates ways, means and timing to achieve established goals and objectives. Effectively and efficiently organizes, arranges and allocates manpower, financial and other designated resources to achieve such goals and objectives.
Organizing: Efficiently organizes own work and that of subordinate staff. Ensures that personnel understand what results are expected of them, and that each is regularly and appropriately informed of all matters affecting or of concern to them.
Staffing: Works with upper management, where appropriate, to select and recommend employment of qualified personnel. Personally directs the development and training of personnel under charge, ensuring their proper induction, orientation and training.
Leading: Provides a work environment which encourages clear and open communications. Has a clear and comprehensive understanding of the principles of effective leadership and how such principles are to be applied. Provides adequate feedback to personnel under charge concerning their performance. Commends and rewards personnel under charge for outstanding performance, and takes timely and appropriate disciplinary action as necessary. Exercises enthusiasm in influencing and guiding others toward achievement of established goals and objectives.
Controlling: Provides a work environment which is orderly and controlled. Coordinates, audits, and controls manpower and financial resources efficiently and effectively. Coordinates, audits, and controls the utilization of materials and equipment efficiently and effectively. Has a clear and comprehensive understanding of established standards, methods and procedures.
Delegating: Assigns duties as necessary and/or appropriate to meet goals, enhance abilities of personnel under charge, build their confidence and assist them in personal growth. Has confidence in personnel under charge to meet new or additional expectations.
Decision Making: Exercises discretion and judgment in developing and implementing courses of action affecting functions under charge. Recognizes when a particular policy, procedure or strategy does not foster the desired result, and moves decisively and explicitly to develop and implement alternatives.
Creativity: Regularly seeks new and improved methodologies, policies and procedures for enhancing the effectiveness of functions under charge. Employs imagination and creativity in the application of duties and responsibilities. Is not averse to change that supports achievement of goals and objectives.
Human Relations: Strives to develop and maintain excellent rapport with personnel under charge. Listens to and considers their suggestions and complaints, and responds appropriately. Establishes a work environment to promote and maintain mutual respect.
Policy Implementation: Has a clear and comprehensive understanding of policies regarding functions under charge and the function of the organization. Adheres to policies in the discharge of duties and responsibilities, and ensures the same from personnel under charge.
Policy Formulation: Maintains awareness of changes in operating philosophies and policies, and routinely reviews policies to ensure any changes in philosophy or practice are appropriately incorporated into functions under charge. Recognizes and understands the relationship between operating policies and practices and morale and performance. Strives to ensure that established policies enhance same.
DISCLAIMER: This job description is not an employment agreement or contract. Management has the exclusive right to alter this job description at any time without notice. EOE
