Description

JOB SUMMARY & DESCRIPTION

The Public Works Project Manager is responsible for planning, managing, and delivering complex public works capital and operational projects from initiation through completion. This position oversees project scope, schedules, budgets, quality control, regulatory compliance, and stakeholder coordination for infrastructure projects including roadways, bridges, parks, utilities, and operational systems. The Project Manager serves as the primary point of accountability for assigned projects and works closely with internal departments, contractors, franchise utilities, regulatory agencies, and the public to ensure projects are completed safely, efficiently, and in alignment with City goals.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Note: This information is intended to be descriptive of the key responsibilities of the position. The list of essential functions below does not identify all duties performed by any single incumbent in this position.

Project Planning and Delivery

• Plans, manages, and oversees all phases of assigned public works projects, including scope development, scheduling, execution, and closeout.
• Develops detailed project plans, timelines, milestones, and performance metrics to ensure timely and efficient project delivery.
• Manages multiple concurrent projects and priorities while ensuring alignment with departmental objectives and City standards.
• Implements and utilizes project management software and operational tools to enhance project tracking, reporting, and efficiency.

Budget and Resource Management

• Develops project budgets and cost estimates; monitors expenditures to ensure projects remain within approved funding levels.
• Tracks labor, materials, and consultant resources and identifies opportunities for cost control and optimization.
• Reviews invoices, change orders, and payment requests to ensure accuracy and contract compliance.

Regulatory Compliance and Risk Management

• Ensures projects comply with all applicable local, state, and federal regulations, safety standards, and environmental requirements.
• Identifies project risks and develops mitigation strategies to address schedule, cost, safety, and operational impacts.
• Maintains documentation related to permits, inspections, compliance reviews, and regulatory approvals.

Stakeholder and Contractor Coordination

• Serves as the primary liaison between the City, contractors, consultants, franchise utility companies, regulatory agencies, and other stakeholders.
• Leads project meetings, pre-construction conferences, and coordination meetings to ensure clear communication and accountability.
• Resolves project issues and conflicts in a timely and professional manner.

Quality Control and Inspections

• Oversees quality assurance and quality control activities to ensure work meets approved plans, specifications, and standards.
• Conducts or coordinates field inspections to verify construction progress and compliance with project requirements.
• Recommends corrective actions when deficiencies or deviations are identified.

Documentation and Reporting

• Maintains comprehensive project records including plans, schedules, reports, permits, correspondence, and closeout documentation.
• Prepares progress reports, presentations, and updates for Public Works leadership, City management, elected officials, and the public as required.
• Ensures project documentation is organized and retained in accordance with City records retention policies.

Public Communication and Customer Service

• Communicates project status, schedules, and impacts to residents, businesses, and stakeholders.
• Develops and distributes public notices, informational materials, and project updates.
• Responds to citizen inquiries and concerns related to public works projects.

Administrative and Departmental Support

• Prepares meeting agendas, reports, presentations, and project documentation.
• Supports departmental planning efforts and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Performs additional duties as assigned that fall within the scope of the job functions.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of standard office practices, procedures, and equipment.
• Knowledge of GIS, AutoCAD, or other relevant technical software is preferred.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Ability to work with Microsoft Office Suite including Access, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, Power BI, Project, etc. as well as Placer.ai,
• ArcGIS, and other database and online mapping programs.
• Proficiency in project management software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera, or similar).
• Familiarity with civil engineering or construction management principles
• Understanding of public works regulations, environmental laws, and safety standards.
• Ability to organize and prioritize work assignments and meet multiple deadlines.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships and tactfully deal with internal and external customers, co-workers, partnering agencies, etc.
• Ability to be well organized and detailed.
• Skilled in computer applications and in creating reports and presentations.
• Effective verbal, presentation, and listening communication skills.

ALTERNATIVE WORK SCHEDULES

This position is eligible for hybrid-remote, flexible hours, and 4, 10-hour days scheduling upon the successful completion of a six (6) month probationary period and at supervisor’s discretion.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

This work typically requires the following physical activities to be performed. A complete description of the activities below is available upon request from Human Resources.

Requirements

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

Requires a Bachelor’s Degree in Project Management, Civil Engineering, Public Administration, Business Administration, Urban Planning, or a related field, and two (2) years of related work experience. An equivalent combination of education and/or experience will be accepted on a year for year basis. The total qualifying equivalent combination is six (6) years.

CERTIFICATION, LICENSE AND SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

• The candidate must have a valid, US driver’s license Project Management Professional (PMP) certification preferred
• Bilingual preferred