Department of Public Works Director

The Town of Cohasset seeks an experienced, collaborative, and highly qualified Department of Public Works Director to lead the Town's public works operations. This full-time, non-union position reports to the Town Manager and plays a key leadership role in planning, managing, and overseeing the Town's public infrastructure, public works operations, capital projects, and departmental staff.

The Director leads the management, direction, and administration of all divisions within the Department of Public Works. The successful candidate will develop work programs, coordinate departmental operations, advise division supervisors, prepare and manage the departmental budget, oversee expenditures, maintain required records, and prepare reports for regulatory agencies, the Town Manager, the Select Board, and the Annual Town Report. The Director will also attend Sewer and Water Commission meetings and present updates to boards and committees as needed.

The Director manages complex engineering studies, capital programs, construction projects, field investigations, surveys, plans, specifications, and cost estimates related to highways, sidewalks, water distribution systems, sewer systems, and other municipal infrastructure. The Director inspects and approves public works projects completed by the Town and private contractors, reviews subdivision plans and permit applications, and provides technical guidance to Town boards, committees, and departments.

The Director also oversees procurement activities for departmental equipment, studies, service contracts, and construction contracts. This position prepares grant applications, develops and uses approved contract templates, negotiates agreements when needed, and ensures compliance with applicable local, state, and federal laws and regulations.

The ideal candidate will bring strong leadership, communication, analytical, budgeting, procurement, and project management skills. The Town seeks a Director who can set priorities, solve complex problems, support staff development, communicate effectively with residents and officials, and maintain a strong public service focus.

Minimum Qualifications:

Candidates must have a Bachelor of Science Degree in civil engineering or a related field and at least ten years of progressively responsible experience in municipal public works, construction, maintenance, and engineering, including at least five years in a supervisory capacity.

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience with water and wastewater operations and regulations, public works, and municipal capital project management is preferred. A Massachusetts Licensed Registered Professional Engineer designation and water and sewer licenses are also preferred. Candidates must possess a valid Massachusetts Class D driver's license.

Salary and Schedule:

This is a full-time, 35-hour-per-week position classified at Grade M8 ($ 141,292 - $170,512). Some evening work and emergency response availability are required.

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