JOB OPENINGS

City of Beech Grove DPW Director  


Deadline to Apply: Friday, August 1, 2025, at Noon 


Send Resume and Cover Letter to: james.coffman@beechgrove.com   


Job Summary 


The Director of Public Works oversees the planning, development, budgeting, management, and operations of the public works department. This role involves a variety of services including road maintenance, sanitation, and utilities. The Director is responsible for setting departmental policies and goals, ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, and managing a team of public works employees.  The Director provides strategic leadership and reports directly to the Mayor. 


Duties and responsibilities  


  • Strategic Planning and Management 
  • Develop, implement, and oversee policies, procedures, and long-term strategic plans for the Department of Public Works. 
  • Manage departmental budgets, including projecting costs, allocating resources, and ensuring cost-effective use of funds. 
  • Manage and administer contracts, bids, and procurements. 
  • Review engineering plans and specifications for public works projects. 
  • Set departmental goals and standards to align with city objectives. 
  • Supervision and Leadership 
  • Supervise and manage all Department of Public Works personnel, including hiring, training, assigning tasks, evaluating performance, and addressing disciplinary issues. 
  • Provide leadership and direction to staff, fostering a positive work environment and ensuring effective communication within the department. 
  • Coordinate with other city departments, including planning, finance, and emergency services, to ensure integrated service delivery. 
  • Operational Oversight 
  • Oversee the maintenance and repair of public infrastructure, including roads, stormwater and sanitation systems, and public facilities. 
  • Ensure that all public works operations comply with local, state, and federal regulations and safety standards. 
  • Implement and monitor processes for the effective delivery of public services, including waste management and transportation systems. 
  • Budget and Financial Management 
  • Prepare and manage the departmental budget, including forecasting expenditures, monitoring financial performance and adjusting as necessary. 
  • Identify and pursue funding opportunities, including grants and partnerships, to support departmental initiatives and projects. 
  • Public Interaction and Reporting 
  • Serve as the primary liaison between the Department of Public Works and the public, City Council, Board of Public Works, and other stakeholders addressing concerns and providing information on departmental activities. 
  • Coordinate projects with employees, vendors, and members of the public who may have differing priorities. 
  • Prepare and present reports on departmental performance, project status, and financial updates to the Mayor, City Council, and other stakeholders as needed. 
  • Communicate and respond to resident complaints and concerns. 
  • Emergency Response and Problem-Solving 
  • Coordinate response to weather-related events, emergencies, and natural disasters (e.g., snow removal, flooding, utility failures). 
  • Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to public works operations, ensuring minimal disruption of services. 
  • Compliance and Safety 
  • Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations, including OSHA and environmental standards. 
  • Implement and oversee safety programs and training for departmental staff, promoting a culture of safety and compliance. 


Qualifications  


  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Public Administration, or related field is preferred but not required. 


  • Minimum 7–10 years of experience in public works, engineering, or municipal operations. 


  • At least 3 years of supervisory or management experience. 


  • Knowledge of state, federal, and local regulations on public infrastructure, operations, and maintenance. 


  • Knowledge of public construction practices, methods, and maintenance. 

  • Knowledge of ADA and/or PROWAG accessibility guidelines as pertaining to public ways. 


  • Excellent communication skills, verbal and written. 


  • Ability to network with governing officials, boards, and committees. 


  • Strong leadership and team management skills. 


  • High level of financial skills to develop and administer budgets. 


  • Familiarity with procurement, contract negotiation, and grant administration. 


  • Ability to respond effectively under pressure and during emergencies. 


Additional Requirements 


Ability to occasionally lift and carry up to 50 pounds.   


Ability to work in all weather conditions and environments, including outdoor and construction settings. 


Ability to travel to various locations as required. Possession of a valid driver's license and ability to operate a vehicle for work-related travel. 


Availability to work extended hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, when needed. 


Salary
2025: $97,003.00

Benefits offered: PERF, Vision, Dental, Health