Assistant Public Works Director in Mount Vernon, Illinois at Mount Vernon, City of (IL)

Under the general direction of the Director of Public Works and the City Manager. The position plans, directs, and evaluates the activities of the water distribution and sanitary sewer collection divisions; supervises construction and maintenance crews; analyzes operational needs; and makes recommendations for improvements. The position reviews and recommends revisions to municipal code provisions affecting the water, and sewer; assists in developing the annual budget; prepares and presents reports and recommendations to the Director of Public Works, City Manager, and City Council as required; responds to citizen complaints and inquiries; and maintains records of labor, materials, and equipment. Subject to administrative direction. Responsibilities include reviewing site plans, subdivision plans, and reports to ensure compliance with all applicable local, state, and federal regulations; coordinating public improvement projects; and assisting in the preparation of related reports and recommendations.

FLSA Classification is exempt. The Public Works Office is open from Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Attendance at City Council is required if Director of Public Works is absent.

• Plans, designs, prepares, and reviews engineering plans, specifications, cost estimates, and related documents for public infrastructure projects, including water systems, sanitary and stormwater systems, and other municipal improvements.
• Reviews site development plans, subdivision plats, and stormwater management reports to ensure compliance with applicable codes, ordinances, and regulations.
• Conducts preliminary engineering studies and directs surveys and data collection necessary for project development.
• Develops construction bid specifications; reviews bids and technical proposals; and maintains engineering project files and records.
• Tracks project quantities and reviews contractor pay applications for accuracy and compliance with contract terms.
• Creates and updates City maps, exhibits, and related engineering documents using appropriate drafting and design software.
• Conducts and oversees inspections of public and private construction projects to ensure compliance with approved plans, specifications, and applicable regulations.
• Directs field inspection activities; reviews field reports; and issues corrective notices or stop-work orders when authorized and necessary.
• Inspects completed work to ensure adherence to established standards and contract requirements.
• Organizes, plans, and supervises assigned Public Works and Public Utilities operations and personnel.
• Establishes work procedures, schedules, and preventive maintenance programs.
  • Provides training and guidance to staff regarding equipment usage, safety practices, and work standards.
  • Supervises and evaluates subordinate personnel engaged in construction, maintenance, and repair activities.
  • Assists in the administration of collective bargaining agreements and makes recommendations regarding personnel matters, consistent with City policy.
  • Coordinates with City departments, governmental agencies, and private contractors in the planning and construction of public improvements.
  • Assists in the development and update of long-range infrastructure and capital improvement plans.
  • Serves as liaison with external agencies and organizations, including regional utility or conservancy districts, as assigned.
  • Assists in the preparation and administration of the annual operating budget for assigned divisions.
  • Reviews and approves expenditures within delegated authority.
• Prepares and presents technical reports and recommendations to the Director of Public Works, City Manager, City Council, and other governing bodies as required.
  • Responds to citizen inquiries and complaints regarding Public Works and Engineering services and initiates appropriate follow-up actions.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.
    • Organize, plan, direct, and supervise the activities of professional and technical staff.
      • Develop, review, and approve engineering plans, proposals, technical designs, and drawings.
      • Inspect and approve public works and utility construction and improvement projects.
      • Evaluate and document employee performance, issuing oral and written warnings and recommending corrective action, up to and including suspension or termination.
      • Establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, officials, contractors, the public, and regulatory agencies.
      • Apply knowledge of state and federal assistance programs as they relate to public improvement projects.
      • Prepare and present oral and written technical reports and recommendations to the Director of Public Works, City Manager, City Council, and Planning Commission.
      • Organize duties efficiently to meet deadlines.
      • Communicate effectively in written, verbal, and public speaking contexts.
      • Maintain strict confidentiality in all duties.
      • Successfully pass background, security, and credit checks.

• Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or a related field preferred.
• Licensed Professional Engineer (P.E.) in Illinois preferred, or ability to obtain licensure within six (6) months of hire
• Ability to obtain Illinois Class “D” Water Supply Operator’s License within one (1) year of hire.
• Ability to obtain a Wastewater Operator Certification within one (1) year of hire
• Professional civil engineering experience preferred.
• Knowledge of engineering principles and practices related to the design, construction, reconstruction, and maintenance of public improvements.
• Knowledge of federal, state, and local laws and regulations governing public infrastructure projects.
• Knowledge of budgeting, procurement, and personnel administration practices.
  • Skill in interpreting engineering plans and specifications, conducting on-site inspections, and preparing technical reports.
  • Proficiency in computer-aided drafting (AutoCAD) and survey equipment preferred.
  • Valid Illinois driver’s license.

• Lift up to 25 pounds using proper body mechanics.
• Stand, sit, reach, grasp, lift/carry, walk, climb, kneel, squat/bend, and push/pull.
• Work in inclement weather as required.
• Read, analyze, and interpret business periodicals, technical procedures, and governmental regulations.
• Perform detailed work requiring visual acuity.
• Use non-verbal auditory sources, such as alarms and cell phones
• All employees shall reside in either Jefferson County, or a County adjacent to Jefferson County, including any of the following: Marion, Wayne, Hamilton, Franklin, Perry, or Washington, as their principal place of residence, within six (6) months of hire, and thereafter at all times during the time of their employment by the City.